How to Get a California Commercial Class B Drivers License
A Commercial Driver License is also called a CDL. You must have a commercial driver license in order to operate commercial vehicles. In California, you must be a California resident in order to operate vehicles and get a California CDL. A class B license is for someone who wants to drive light trucks. According to the Bureau of Labor, these are trucks under 26,000 pounds. Drivers usually have short trips, such as deliveries within a nearby city. There are many requirements with obtaining a Commercial Driver License. Part of the requirements are as simple as filling out paperwork, while some require very difficult driving exams.
Other People Are Reading
Things You'll Need
- Commercial Driver License Application
- Medical form
- Birth date/legal presence document
- Social Security card
- Certificate of Driving Skill
Instructions
-
-
1
Make sure you fulfill all legal requirements before applying for a CDL. You must be a California resident, most importantly. Also, you must disclose any prior driving convictions and be ready to surrender any out-of-state driver licenses, even if not expired.
-
2
Apply at your local DMV office for a CDL. Along with your true full name, provide a Commercial Driver License Application form, also called a DL 44C. As part of this form you agree to drug testing.
-
-
3
Provide an approved medical form completed by any licensed doctor, physician's assistant or nurse practitioner.
-
4
Pay the applicable fee. For a first time license, as of 2009, the fee is $64. Fees are subject to change each January 1. For other fees, such as renewals, adding passengers, or name changes, speak to your local DMV about charges.
-
5
Fill out a birth date/legal presence (BD/LP) document. This is proof that you are legally in the United States. The copy you present to the DMV must be a certified copy.
-
6
Give them your Social Security card. If you do not have a Social Security card, a military ID or Medicare card with your Social Security number on it will suffice.
-
7
Your employer may be authorized to give you a certificate of driving skill, also known as DL 170 ETP. If so, present this to the DMV.
-
8
Take, and pass, a vision test which is the first exam required.
-
9
Passing a knowledge test is also required. This tests on your knowledge of the law about such topics as transporting passengers, liquids or hazardous materials, pulling trailers and operating air brakes.
-
10
Make an appointment for your driving test after passing all paper exams. Find a DMV in your area that offers CDL driving exams. You must be able to properly inspect the vehicle before departure, show that you can maneuver the vehicle through obstacles, and drive for up to an hour with a test examiner.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Fill out as much paperwork as possible before getting to the DMV. This makes the process faster.
