Adult Original Commercial Driver License (CDL)
1 – WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
- Before you can apply for a first-time commercial driver license, you must hold a regular (Class D) driver license for at least one (1) year.
- There are different commercial driver license classes and endorsements, research before applying.
Testing
You will take a written knowledge test based on endorsements needed. When you pass, you will be issued a commercial learner permit (CLP.) You can study the CDL driver manual to prepare for the written knowledge test.
Complete the required Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT.) Once complete, you can take the CDL driving skills test, the School Bus or Passenger driving skills test, or the Hazmat written knowledge test.
When you have successfully completed all endorsement written knowledge testing and entry-level driver training, you can schedule an appointment for the driving skills test. You will perform the driving skill test in the appropriate vehicle for the class of CDL you are applying for. You can schedule your driving skills test with a third-party tester or with an examiner at the Driver License Division.
- Military personnel may qualify for a waiver of the CDL driving skills test; click here for more information.
2 – WHAT IS THE PROCESS
- Fill out an online application and schedule an appointment to visit a CDL driver license office.
- When you arrive for your scheduled appointment, have your confirmation number ready to check in, and then you will take a photo.
- After your photo, you will have a seat; when your number is called, you will present your documents to the examiner, take an eye test, and pay the non-refundable fee of $52.00, plus each CDL endorsement is $9.00; motorcycle endorsement is $18.00.
- You will then take any required written knowledge tests.
3 – WHAT YOU NEED TO BRING TO YOUR APPOINTMENT
- Bring your DOT card to be verified.
- Bring proof of identity (name and date of birth.)
- Bring your social security card.
- Bring two (2) documents providing proof of your Utah address.
Has Your Name Changed
If the name from your driver license or identity card is different than the name on your identity document (e.g., birth certificate or passport), it must be accompanied by legal documentation authorizing the name change. These include a certified state marriage certificate, divorce decree, updated passport, amended birth certificate, adoption paperwork, citizenship/naturalization certificate, or court documents indicating the name change sealed by the court.
4 – COMPLETE THE APPLICATION AND SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT
Currently, our Farmington, Logan, and Tooele offices do not process CDL’s.
5 – WHEN DO I GET MY LICENSE
- A temporary license with a photo will be issued on the same day.
- The completed license with a 5-year expiration date will be mailed to you in approximately 4-6 weeks.
Note: By law, you may not possess more than one REAL ID compliant certificate at a time (e.g., a Utah driver license and a Colorado ID.)