Getting your CDL in West Virginia
To obtain a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) in West Virginia, follow the specific process outlined below. Please note that prices mentioned are approximate and subject to change. For the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding CDL application fees and procedures in West Virginia, it is recommended to visit the official website of the West Virginia Division of Motor Vehicles or contact them directly.
1. Eligibility Requirements: Ensure you meet the eligibility criteria to qualify for a CDL in West Virginia. This typically includes being at least 18 years old for intrastate driving or 21 years old for interstate driving. You will also need a valid West Virginia driver’s license and must provide proof of US citizenship or lawful permanent residency.
2. Study the CDL Manual: Obtain a copy of the West Virginia CDL Manual, available online or from the West Virginia Division of Motor Vehicles. Thoroughly study this manual to understand the rules, regulations, and procedures related to operating commercial vehicles.
3. Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP): Visit a local West Virginia Division of Motor Vehicles office and apply for a CLP by passing the written knowledge tests specific to your desired CDL type. The fee for obtaining a CLP in West Virginia is approximately $25.
4. Training: Consider enrolling in a CDL training program offered by a reputable truck driving school to acquire the necessary skills and knowledge required to pass the CDL skills test. The cost of training programs varies depending on the school and program you choose.
5. Skills Test: Schedule an appointment with the West Virginia Division of Motor Vehicles to take the CDL skills test. This test usually includes a pre-trip vehicle inspection, basic control skills, and an on-road driving examination. The approximate fee for the skills test in West Virginia is around $32.
6. Background Checks and Endorsements: Depending on the type of CDL and endorsements you seek, you may need to undergo additional background checks and pass specialized knowledge tests. Fees for these tests vary based on the specific endorsement.
7. License Issuance: After successfully completing all necessary tests, paying the required fees, and meeting additional requirements, the West Virginia Division of Motor Vehicles will issue you a CDL. The license fee for a five-year CDL in West Virginia is approximately $75.
Remember to visit the official website of the West Virginia Division of Motor Vehicles or contact them directly for the most accurate and current information regarding CDL application procedures and fees in West Virginia.
To obtain a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) in West Virginia, 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 West Virginia Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Here is a general outline of the CDL process in West Virginia:
1. Determine the CDL Class: West Virginia 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 West Virginia DMV. You must be at least 18 years old for an intrastate CDL (within West Virginia) 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 West Virginia 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 West Virginia may vary. As of my knowledge cutoff in September 2021, the base fee for a CDL in West Virginia is $25 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 West Virginia 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 West Virginia, please refer to the official website of the West Virginia Division of Motor Vehicles or contact their office directly.
Commercial Driver’s License
A Commercial Driver’s License may be issued, with the following classifications, endorsements, and restrictions; the holder of a valid commercial driver’s license may drive all vehicles in the class for which that license is issued, all lesser classes of vehicles, and vehicles which require an endorsement, if the proper endorsement appears on the license
CDL Classes
CDL Endorsements
CDL Restrictions
(Under 21 Driver or Medical Waiver)
Entry Level Driver Training (ELDT) Applicability for CDL Applicants
A commercial driver’s instruction permit (CDL instruction permit) may be issued to an applicant who holds a valid operator’s or class D license who has passed the vision and/or physical standards, and knowledge tests required for issuance of a CDL.
The CDL instruction permit may not be issued for a period to exceed 180 days. Only one renewal on re-issuance may be granted within a two year period from issue date. In the event the applicant has been issued two CDL instruction permits, before the applicant may obtain an additional CDL instruction permit he/she must reapply and re-test on all parts of the knowledge exam.
The holder of a CDL instruction permit may drive a commercial motor vehicle on the highway only when accompanied by the holder of a commercial driver’s license valid for the type of vehicle who occupies a seat beside the individual for the purpose of giving instruction or testing. The permit must be valid for the type of vehicle being driven also.
A CDL instruction permit may only be issued to an applicant who is at least 18 years of age and has held a Level 3 Graduated Driver’s License, a Class E license, or a Class D license for at least one year.
Upon completion of all tests, the person will receive a CDL instruction permit. When operating a commercial vehicle you must have your CDL instruction permit and regular operator’s license.
Applicants must hold a CDL instruction permit for a minimum of 14 days before they are eligible to take the road skills test. Applicants whom are ready to take the road skills test must contact a Third-Party Examiner to schedule an appointment.
You must be at least 18 years of age and have at least one (1) year driving experience to qualify for a CDL or CDL instruction permit. Federal Motor Carrier Rules requires that drivers subject to those rules meet specific physical qualification standards and carry evidence of such qualification in the form of a medical certificate.
All drivers who operate a commercial motor vehicle (CMV) in NON-EXCEPTED INTERSTATE (NI) commerce are subject to having a DOT physical completed by a certified medical examiner listed on the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s National Registry website, located at: nationalregistry.fmcsa.dot.gov.
School bus drivers or applicants who work for a city, state, or federal government agency, in which a CDL is required for their employment, are considered operating in EXCEPTED INTRASTATE or EXCEPTED INTERSTATE and are exempt from meeting the FMCSA requirements. School bus drivers will be required to present their current School Bus Certification card. Applicants who work for a city, county, state, or federal government agency must provide written verification, on agency letterhead, verifying employment with their city, state, or federal government agency.
If you cannot be medically certified, you may be eligible for a medical waiver.
If you wish to be able to operate a commercial motor vehicle interstate (all 50 states) you must apply and be granted a waiver from the Federal Highway Administration. Contact (304) 347-5935 for further information.
If you wish to operate a commercial motor vehicle in WV only, please call (304) 926-3801 for information on obtaining a medical waiver.
Applications and study manuals are available at any DMV Exam Centers, Regional Office, or on the Forms page of this website.
The CDL Manual (State and Federal) is available for download here.
For FREE AND CONFIDENTIAL assistance with reading, call 1-866-262-5348
- Visit the Licensing page to see all required documentation for all first time, duplicate, and renewal license applicants.
- First time applicants will need Entry Level Driver Training (ELDT) to obtain a CDL. A first time CDL applicant is a driver who has NEVER held a CDL prior to February 7, 2022. If you are a first time CDL applicant or a first time P (Passenger), S (School Bus) or H (Hazmat) endorsement applicant you will need to complete ELDT. For additional information on the ELDT requirements and the process, click here.
- Complete in full, front and back, of the Application for Commercial Driver’s License and/or Endorsements (CDL-1).
- Submit a copy of your current DOT Medical/physical certification (Long Form Physical) and DOT Medical card (valid for 30 days or more), or for city, county, state, or federal government agency employees a verification of employment on agency letterhead.
- Pay Applicable Fees: CDL testing fee is $25.00 + driver’s licensing fees. The CDL testing fee allows testing for general knowledge, air brakes and combination. Commercial Driver’s Licenses fees are non-refundable. Endorsement fees are $10.00 each at the time of application.
- Submit the application, a copy of your current DOT Medical/physical certification (Long Form Physical), DOT Medical card or for city, state, or federal government agency employees a verification of employment on agency letterhead, and required fees to DMV, PO Box 17010, Charleston WV 25317.
- Upon receipt of the application and fees, a test card will be mailed to the applicant which will include the regional CDL testing sites.
- Due to the COVID-19 crisis, knowledge tests are being conducted by appointment only. A contact number will be provided with your test card.
- Once all tests are successfully completed a CDL instruction permit will be issued. The permit will be for a period of 180 days and can only be renewed one time. When the applicant is ready to take the road skills test, they should contact one of the third party examiners (names and telephone numbers in front of the CDL manual) to schedule an appointment. Most skills tests are given on weekends and evenings. The cost of the skills test is $100.00 (as of January 1, 2017), which should be paid to the Third Party Examiner at the time of the test.
- The applicant must provide the vehicle in which the test will be given. The vehicle must be representative of the class of license for which the applicant is testing.
- Upon completion of the skills test, you will need to schedule an appointment to receive your CDL. Your third party examiner will provide you with the appropriate contact information for your region to make that appointment.
A HAZMAT endorsement holder renewing their CDL will receive 3 attempts to test and pass the HAZMAT endorsement on a valid no expired license. If your CDL license is expired then you must obtain a HAZMAT test card from the CDL office in Charleston before you can test for HAZMAT.
- Complete in full, front and back, of the Application for Commercial Driver’s License and/or Endorsements (CDL-1).
- You must have previously taken all required tests.
- Indicate in the transaction area that you are applying for a license update. The fees required for upgrading your license is $7.50.
- Upon receipt, the Division will then issue a CDL instruction permit. A skills test is required to upgrade from one class to another.
- If combination or air brakes tests are needed, you must complete these tests before you can take the road skills test.
Complete in full, front and back, of the Application for Commercial Driver’s License and/or Endorsements (CDL-1) and pay appropriate fees:
- Required fees are $10.00 for each endorsement and $7.50 for the duplicate license.
(For one endorsement the fee would be $17.50. For two endorsements the fee would be $27.50. etc.) - To add air brakes or combination after you have been issued your commercial driver’s license, which will require a road skills test, the fee is:
Air Brakes/Combination $25.00
+ Duplicate Fee $7.50
= Total Fee would be $32.50 - When a person already has a CDL license in the system and they are only updating or adding a passenger endorsement and must take the road skills test, when the CDL is updated, it is done as a duplicate issuance. We are only updating the system, not changing the expiration date.
A HAZMAT endorsement holder renewing their CDL will receive 3 attempts to test and pass the HAZMAT endorsement on a valid no expired license. If your CDL license is expired then you must obtain a HAZMAT test card from the CDL office in Charleston before you can test for HAZMAT.
Once you have received your CDL renewal notice form, you should visit the DMV office to start the renewal process. You must bring the required documents to renew your CDL. For information on Documents required to renew, click here.
If you currently are employed by a city, county, state, or federal government, and your job requires a valid CDL, you are exempt from the DOT physical requirements; however, you must provide a letter from your employer stating you are currently employed and exempt from the DOT physical requirements. If you did not receive a renewal notice in the mail, then you must complete a CDL-1 application at the Regional office, plus pay an additional fee of $5.00 for an expired license. If your license has been expired for more than 6 months you must pass the written and road skills tests for both a regular Class E license and all examination requirements for a commercial driver’s license.
To retain a Hazardous Material Endorsement, you must first complete a fingerprint, and background check from the TRANSPORTATION SECURITY ADMINISTRATION. You should contact the Universal Enrollment Services (UES) Help Desk at 1-855-347-8371, or visit their website at universalenroll.dhs.gov to pay the $86.50 fee to start the fingerprint/background check process. All fees are non-refundable. After contacting UES and scheduling an appointment you must visit one of the locations that provide fingerprinting, these locations are listed on their website. When visiting the UES office you must provide proof of identity and citizenship. Visit the UES website for a complete list of acceptable proof documents. Once you have received your approval letter in the mail from TSA stating you have passed the background check then you can return to the DMV office to test for HAZMAT and renew your CDL. Please bring your approval letter from TSA when you renew. If you do not wish to maintain your HAZMAT endorsement you can go directly to a DMV office to renew your license and complete a surrender form, surrendering your HAZMAT endorsement.
A HAZMAT endorsement holder renewing their CDL will receive 3 attempts to test and pass the HAZMAT endorsement on a valid no expired license. If your CDL license is expired then you must obtain a HAZMAT test card from the CDL office in Charleston before you can test for HAZMAT.
Knowledge Exam
The knowledge test, written or oral, must be taken and passed, with at least an 80% score by all applicants. You must test for the endorsements listed on the test card at the time as when you test for general knowledge. At a later date you can get a test card for other endorsements. If you fail any portion of the knowledge examination, you must wait 7 days before you may retest. You may test 3 times on the original fees paid.
Hazardous Materials Testing
Hazardous Materials testing must be written.
Skills Test
Applicants must hold a CDL instruction permit for a minimum of 14 days before they are eligible to take the CDL Road Skills Test. The skills tests are administered by certified third party examiners trained. The road skills test will not be given until you have passed all other parts of the examination and have in your possession a commercial driver’s license instruction permit for the type of vehicle for which you are testing. Each section of the skills test (pre-trip, basic control and road test) must be passed.
The examiner cannot give the skills test unless your vehicle is in safe condition and legally equipped. Your vehicle must first be checked to make sure it complies with registration, vehicle inspection and equipment laws.
Any person applying to renew a CDL which has been expired for 6 months or more must follow the procedures for an initial issuance of a CDL license, including the knowledge and skills testing.
If not expired over 6 months, the person can renew and pay an additional $5.00.
When a person wishes to voluntarily surrender his/her CDL license, he/she must complete a voluntarily surrendered letter. By signing this letter, the applicant knows he/she will have to start all over with knowledge and skills testing before receiving a CDL license again.
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