On September 29, 2025, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) published an interim final rule requiring states to pause the issuance of limited-term Commercial Driver's Licenses (CDLs) until they comply with the new rules and regulations. The State of Utah resumed issuing non-domiciled licenses on November 3, 2025.

First-time non-domiciled commercial driver license (CDL) - Not U.S. Citizen

What you need to know

Before you can apply for a CDL:

  • You must hold a regular (Class D) driver license for at least one (1) year issued by a U.S. state.
  • Out-of-country foreign commercial driver licenses are not accepted as proof of a commercial driver license.
  • There are different commercial driver license classes and endorsements, research before applying.
  • 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 before completing all required and applicable written knowledge tests.
What you need to do

  1. Fill out online application & make appointment

    • REQUIRED: Online application
    • SAVE TIME: Make appointment
    • Currently, our Farmington, Logan, and Tooele offices do not process CDLs.

  2. Gather your documents - must bring to appointment

    • Bring proof of lawful presence, I-94 admittance document:
      • H-2A;
      • H-2B; or
      • E-2
    • Bring proof of identity (name and date of birth):
      • Unexpired foreign passport.
    • A S.A.V.E verification will be run to verify your document status (this process may take up to 14 days.)  Get information about S.A.V.E verifications here.
    • Translation required: If you need to have your documents translated into English, find a list of approved translators here.
    • Bring your social security card or proof of ineligibility to obtain a social security number.
    • Bring two (2) documents providing proof of your Utah address.
    • If your name has changed, bring proof of your name change.
    • Bring your medical Examiner's Certificate or DOT card

  3. Study for written knowledge test(s)

    • You will take at least one written knowledge test based on endorsements needed.  When you pass, you will be issued a commercial learner permit (CLP.)
    • Study the CDL driver manual to prepare for the written knowledge test.

  4. At your appointment

    • Have your confirmation number ready to check-in
    • Have photo taken
    • Present documents
    • Pass eye test
    • Pay 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

Ready to Start?

1. Complete Application

2. Book Your Appointment (link at end of application)

Go Now

When do I get my commercial learner permit?

  • When you pass, you will be issued your commercial learner permit

Next steps

  • 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.