How to Get a CDL License in North Carolina

Last Updated: September 16, 2021 References

In the state of North Carolina, a commercial drivers license is required for drivers who transport a minimum of 16 passengers, such as a bus, and for drivers of large semi-trucks of a certain weight. To receive a commercial drivers license, you must complete an application and pass the knowledge and skills tests for driving commercial vehicles. A commercial drivers license can be obtained from any drivers licensing office of the North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles (NCDOT).

Steps

1
Obtain and review the commercial drivers license manual and user guide.^{[1]
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- Visit the NCDOT "Manual" website listed in the Sources section of this article for an online copy of the commercial drivers manual or contact NCDOT at 919-715-7000 to learn of nearby office locations that will provide you with a copy.^{[2]
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- Study the manual completely in order to pass the knowledge and skills tests, which must be taken prior to receiving your commercial drivers license.
2
Choose the type of commercial drivers license you need based on the type of vehicle you will be driving.^{[3]
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- Select a "Commercial Class A" license if you will be driving a combination of vehicles that weigh at least 26,001 lbs. (11,793 kilograms). A combination of vehicles indicates trailers or other items you tow.
- Obtain a "Commercial Class B" license if you drive a single vehicle that weighs at least 26,001 lbs. (11.793 kilograms) and if you plan on towing another vehicle or trailer than weighs less than 10,000 lbs. (4,535.92 kilograms).
- Select a "Commercial Class C" license if your vehicle does not meet criteria from the "A" or "B" Classes or if you plan on driving at least 16 passengers, including yourself. You must also select a "Class C" license if you are transporting hazardous materials.
- You can also obtain a Learner's Permit, which will require you to have a passenger sitting beside you every time you drive. Your passenger must already have a valid commercial drivers license. The Learner's Permit is only valid for 6 months.^{[4]
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3
Bring a document that proves your place of residence.^{[5]
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- The document must display both your name and the physical address where you reside.
- Acceptable forms of documentation include military orders, your valid North Carolina vehicle registration, a North Carolina library card, your utility bill, or a copy of your apartment lease.
- To view other forms of acceptable proof of residency documentation, visit the NCDOT "Commercial" website featured in the Sources section of this article or contact the NCDOT headquarters office at 919-715-7000 between Monday and Friday during the hours of 8 a.m. and 5 p.m.^{[6]
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4
Bring 2 pieces of documentation that confirm your identity and current age.^{[7]
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- One piece of the documentation must be your Social Security Card or identification card issued by the United States government that verifies your legal presence in the country.
- Other types of acceptable documentation you can bring include your current, valid drivers license, a birth certificate, a valid passport, certified marriage certificate, or notarized court documents.
5
Bring a document that proves you carry liability insurance for the vehicle you plan on driving.^{[8]
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- You can bring an insurance card or policy that displays your name, the insurance policy number, and the beginning and end dates of your insurance policy.
6
Certify or confirm with NCDOT that you have a clean driving record.^{[9]
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- When you apply to receive a commercial drivers license, your existing drivers license must not be suspended, revoked, or disqualified, and you should not own multiple drivers licenses.
- If NCDOT's records show a discrepancy against the information you certify, they may ask you to provide additional, specific documentation that proves your driving record is clean.
7
Bring your United States Department of Transportation (DOT) medical card.^{[10]
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- The DOT medical card can be obtained after you have had a physical examination by a doctor or health care provider, and is required if you plan to drive a commercial vehicle.
- If you cannot obtain or do not have a DOT medical card, an NCDOT Exemption Review Officer will meet with you to determine if you are eligible to receive a commercial drivers license.
8
Take the written knowledge test at any full service drivers license NCDOT location.^{[11]
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- The knowledge test may take up 1 hour and 30 minutes to complete and you must be able to pass the test with a score of 80 percent or better.
9
Take the driving skills test after you have passed the knowledge test.
- Refer to your copy of the commercial drivers license manual for a complete list of office locations that administer the driving skills test.
- Call the telephone number of the office you want to visit for your skills test and make an appointment for the test.
- The driving skills test will include an inspection of the vehicle you plan to drive, basic vehicle control skills such as making turns or backing up, and a complete road-driving test.
10
Pay the applicable fees to receive your commercial drivers license.
- The application fee will cost 40 dollars and the commercial license fee will cost 20 dollars per year.^{[12]
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Community Q&A

Question

Is there a maximum age for a CDL license?

Community Answer

There is no maximum age, but there is a minimum age of 18 years old.
Question

Do I need to have a clean driving record?

Community Answer

Yes, a clean driving record is important to becoming a driver. Minor infractions can affect your ability to get employed by certain companies, especially if they were recent. Suspensions and revocations on your record can severely limit your opportunities.
Question

Do I need to go to school to obtain my CDL?

Community Answer

You need to pass the CDL exam. If you can do so without going to driving school, more power to you.