Getting your CDL In Ohio

Getting your CDL In Ohio

To obtain a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) in Ohio, there are several steps that you need to follow. Firstly, you must obtain a CDL learner’s permit, which requires passing a written exam and costs $27. After that, you need to complete a CDL training program either through a truck driving school or with an employer who offers training. The cost of the training program varies but typically ranges from $3,000 to $7,000.

Once you have completed your training program, you can apply for a CDL at any Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) office. You will be required to take a skills test that includes a pre-trip inspection, a basic control skills test, and an on-road driving test. The fee for the CDL skills test is $30.

If you pass the skills test, you can then pay for your CDL license, which is currently $47.50 for a Class A license and $25.75 for a Class B license. You may also need to pay additional fees for endorsements, depending on your career path.

Overall, the total cost of obtaining a CDL in Ohio can range from around $3,500 to $8,500, depending on the cost of your training program and any additional fees for endorsements or other requirements.

To obtain a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) in Ohio, you need to go through a process that includes meeting specific 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 Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Here is a general outline of the CDL process in Ohio:

1. Determine the CDL Class: Ohio 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 Ohio BMV. You must be at least 18 years old for an intrastate CDL (within Ohio) or 21 years old for an interstate CDL (across state lines). You must have a valid regular driver’s license and provide proof of 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 complete 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 Ohio BMV 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 Ohio may vary. As of my knowledge cutoff in September 2021, the base fee for a CDL in Ohio is $27.75 for a four-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 Ohio BMV 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 Ohio, please refer to the official website of the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles or contact their office directly.

Commercial Driver (CDL) Testing

First-Time Applicants

To obtain a Commercial Driver License (CDL) or Commercial Learner Permit (CLP), you must:

  • be at least 18 years old,
  • have a valid Ohio driver license, and
  • provide proof of U.S. citizenship or permanent residency.

Drivers seeking to obtain a CDL or CLP must self-certify their type of driving.

After a CDL is issued, adding a passenger endorsement, upgrading the license, or removing a restriction require both knowledge and skills tests.

Commercial Learner Permits (CLP)
  • A CLP holder can only operate a commercial motor vehicle on a highway when driving with a CDL holder properly endorsed for the vehicle.
  • A CLP is valid for six months and may be renewed once before it expires.

Vision Requirement

You will be required to pass a vision test or meet the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) physical qualifications for drivers with an exam date after March 15, 2022.

Physical Qualifications

Drivers of Commercial Motor Vehicles are required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration to meet physical qualifications. If you are unable to meet Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) physical qualifications for drivers, you may be eligible for a restricted CDL. More information on exemptions from the physical requirements can be found from:

Requirements
  • Must pass vision and knowledge testing
  • Must keep your Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration hearing waiver with you at all times
  • Must pass the skills test within three hours

Knowledge Tests

A knowledge test is required for each class of vehicle, for each endorsement, and to remove the air brake restriction.

Skills Tests

Skills testing consists of:

  • Pre-trip inspection (30 minute time limit)
  • Basic maneuverability test (40 minute time limit)
  • Road test

You must provide a vehicle appropriate for the class of license you are applying for, including a bus (designed to carry 16 or more persons including the driver) if applying for a passenger endorsement. Third-party testing sites may have vehicles available for rent.

If any part of the skills test is failed, you must wait two days to retest.

Renewal or Upgrade

You must provide any updated information, complete any testing, and provide proof of U.S. citizenship or permanent residency.

  • Drivers who surrendered a CDL or any endorsement must pay applicable fees and retake knowledge and skills test(s).
  • For a hazardous materials endorsement, the driver must complete the Transportation Security Administration’s Hazardous Materials Endorsement Threat Assessment Program before the license can be issued.

Fees for Testing

At a state-owned testing facility, a CDL Test Receipt first must be purchased at any deputy registrar license agency in Ohio.

  • Pre-trip inspection: $10.00
  • Basic test: $10.00
  • Road test: $30.00

At a third-party testing facility, fees are paid on site.

  • Pre-trip inspection: $27.00
  • Basic test: $27.00
  • Road test: $61.00

Out-of-State Applicants

Out-of-state applicants may take the Ohio CDL skills test with an out-of-state CLP as long as the driver presents a current out-of-state driver license and a certificate from an Ohio truck driving school.

Where Do I Go?

More Information

Ohio Revised Code: 4506.10

Ohio Administrative Code: 4501:1-1-20 (E) (1) (4)

Trucking Schools In Ohio