Getting your CDL In Nebraska
To get a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) in Nebraska, you need to follow these steps:
1. Obtain a valid Nebraska driver’s license.
2. Obtain a Department of Transportation (DOT) medical certificate.
3. Study the Nebraska CDL manual and take the written knowledge test at a Nebraska Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) office.
4. Obtain a commercial learner’s permit (CLP) by passing a skills test consisting of pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and on-road driving.
5. Hold the CLP for at least 14 days before taking the CDL skills test.
6. Pass the CDL skills test comprising pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and on-road driving.
The cost of obtaining a CDL in Nebraska may vary based on several factors such as endorsements required, type of CDL, and fees for each step of the process. Generally, the cost for obtaining a CDL in Nebraska ranges from $78 to $93. The CDL skills test fee may range from $61 to $236.
To obtain a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) in Nebraska, you need to go through a process that includes meeting certain requirements, completing training, passing written and practical exams, and paying the necessary fees. Please note that the information provided is based on the knowledge available up until September 2021, and there may have been updates or changes since then. It’s always best to consult the official website of the Nebraska Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Here is a general outline of the CDL process in Nebraska:
1. Determine the CDL Class: Nebraska offers several classes of CDL, including Class A, Class B, and Class C, depending on the type of vehicle you plan to operate.
2. Eligibility Requirements: Ensure you meet the basic requirements set by the Nebraska DMV. You must be at least 18 years old for an intrastate CDL (within Nebraska) or 21 years old for an interstate CDL (across state lines). You must have a valid regular driver’s license and provide proof of citizenship or legal presence in the United States.
3. Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP): Before obtaining a CDL, you will need to obtain a Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP). To get a CLP, you need to pass a written knowledge test specific to the class of CDL you’re seeking. The test covers topics like general knowledge, air brakes (if applicable), combination vehicles (if applicable), and any endorsements you may need. You must also pass a vision screening and provide proper identification.
4. CDL Training: While not mandatory, it is highly recommended to enroll in a CDL training program to receive professional instruction and hands-on training. CDL training programs can be found at commercial driving schools or community colleges. These programs help prepare you for the CDL skills test and provide valuable knowledge and experience.
5. Skills Test: Once you’ve obtained your CLP and completed your training, you can schedule an appointment with the Nebraska DMV to take the CDL skills test. The skills test typically includes a pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and an on-road driving test. You may also need to complete additional tests for specific endorsements.
6. Endorsements: If you plan to operate vehicles with additional features or requirements, such as carrying hazardous materials, transporting passengers, or driving a tanker, you may need to obtain specific endorsements. Endorsements require additional written tests and possibly additional skills tests.
7. Fees: The fees associated with obtaining a CDL in Nebraska may vary. As of my knowledge cutoff in September 2021, the base fee for a CDL in Nebraska is $54.50 for a five-year license. There may be additional fees for specific endorsements or other services. These fees are subject to change, so it’s best to check the Nebraska DMV website or contact their office directly for the most current fee information.
It’s important to note that additional costs may arise, such as those related to CDL training programs, medical examinations, and background checks.
For the most accurate and up-to-date information on CDL requirements and fees in Nebraska, please refer to the official website of the Nebraska Department of Motor Vehicles or contact their office directly.
A Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) is a permit which when carried with a Class O license authorizes an individual to operate a class of commercial motor vehicle when accompanied by a holder of a valid Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) for purposes of behind-the-wheel training.
Commercial Learner’s Permit Details
- A Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) is valid for 180 days.
- The issuance of a CLP is a precondition to the initial issuance of a CDL. The issuance of a CLP is also a precondition to the upgrade of a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) if the upgrade requires a skills test.
- An applicant shall successfully complete all applicable written tests for the class and endorsements of CLP applied for.
- A CLP may be renewed once before all applicable written tests must be retaken.
Replacement/Renewal:
- You may request a replacement/renewal in person at any Driver Licensing Office.
- You will need to present primary identification.
- If you need to update your address, you will need to present two forms of address verification.
General Information Regarding Commercial Driver’s Licenses (CDLs) And Commercial Learner’s Permits (CLPs)
- Applicants applying for Commercial Learner’s Permits (CLPs) and Commercial Driver’s Licenses (CDLs) are required to provide proof of U.S. citizenship or lawful status.
- When applying for a CLP or CDL, individuals will be required to certify to the DMV what type of operation they engage in (see
CDL Self Certification Chart). In addition, if certifying as Category A: Interstate – Non-Excepted, drivers are required to provide the DMV with a current copy of their medical examiner’s certificate (card – not long form) and keep it current with the DMV. - In order to take skills tests for a CDL, drivers must first have a CLP and hold it for at least 14 days.
- If a CLP expires and all three segments (pre-trip vehicle inspection, basic controls skills and road test) of the skills test have not been passed, any skills tests previously passed are invalid and ALL skills testing must be retaken.
- CLPs will have a class and may have endorsements and restrictions. CLPs require all applicable written tests be passed as a condition of issuance.
Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) Testing
| Type of Test | New Permit | New Resident Permit | Renewal |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vision | Required | Required | Required |
| Written | Required | Required | Required |
CLP Classes: A and B*
CLP Endorsements*:
- P – Passenger;
- S – School Bus;
- N – Tank Vehicle
CLP Restrictions*:
- K – Intrastate only;
- L – Vehicles Without Air Brakes;
- P – no passengers;
- X – no cargo in tank vehicle;
- V – Medical Variance;
- M – No Class A Passenger Vehicle;
- N – No Class A or B Passenger Vehicle
*See descriptions of Commercial Motor Vehicle Classes, Endorsements and Restrictions.
Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) Fees
| Type of Document | Fee | Security Surcharge | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Original | $10.00 | $5.00 | $15.00 |
| Replacement | $10.00 | $5.00 | $15.00 |
| Change of class, endorsement or restriction | $10.00 | $5.00 | $15.00 |