You can apply for a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) in Georgia at 18 years of age.  Restrictions apply until you are 21.   

  • Basic Requirements

    New Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT)

     

    Note: Beginning February 7, 2022, ALL entry-level drivers will be subject to the requirements in the FMCSA Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) regulations. This includes drivers applying for a Class A or B for the first time, upgrading an existing CDL to a higher class, or adding a new School Bus, Passenger, or Hazmat Endorsement.

    Entry-Level Driver Training

    • Applicants must be at least 18 years of age to apply. 

    • Applicants between the age of 18 to 21 will be restricted to drive in Georgia only (Intrastate). On or after the 21st birthday, the applicant must go into any Customer Service Center to have the "Georgia Only" Restriction removed.  

    • All applicants must hold a valid regular Georgia Driver's License. 

    • If applying for the first time or upgrading, you must have a valid Class AP or BP Instructional Permit (CLP). You are required to hold your CLP for 14 days before applying for a full CDL.  NOTE: A CLP issued on or after July 1, 2021, will be valid for 365 days.

    • There are three classes of Commercial licenses. The Gross Vehicle Weight Ratings (GVWR) and the type of vehicle determine the class of commercial driver's license being issued.    

    • Class A

      Truck trailer or tractor-semitrailer combination in which the combined weight exceeds 26,001 pounds and the unit being towed exceeds 10,000 pounds. Class A drivers may operate Class B and C vehicles with the required endorsements. Applicants must possess a Class C driver’s license before obtaining a Class A and be at least 18 years of age. A single driver’s license, with a combination of classifications, will be issued to qualified persons who wish to drive various types of vehicles.

    • Class B

      Single vehicles weighing 26,001 or more pounds and the unit being towed is less than 10,000 pounds. A class B driver may operate motor vehicles included within Class C. Applicants must possess a Class C driver’s license prior to obtaining a Class B driver’s license and be at least 18 years of age.

    • Class C

      Commercial Driver’s Licenses are issued only if the vehicle is designed to transport sixteen or more passengers (including the driver), or utilized to transport hazardous materials in quantities that require placarding.

  • Plan Ahead

    All Customers visiting a center must submit the required Online License/ID/Permit form.

    Start Here

    If taking an Automobile, Motorcycle Skills, or CDL Road Test, don't forget to Schedule a Road Test Appointment.    

  • Get the required documents

    • Complete the Commercial Application (CAP) at any Customer Service Center. The CAP fee is $35. Fees are waived for veterans and school bus drivers who present the required waiver.

    • The $35 CAP fee is valid for 4 test attempts. After the fourth failed attempt, a new CAP and the $35 fee are required. Also, if 360 days pass in between test attempts, a new CAP and the $35 fee are required.

    • Federal and State regulations require drivers to certify their Driving Category - the type of driving they will be engaged in. Your self-certification will determine if you will be required to provide a copy of your Medical Card. 

    • Applicants new to Georgia must surrender any out-of-state driver's license/permit/ID card.

    • If you were issued a driver's license/permit/ID card in another state, and that card has been lost or stolen:
      • You must provide a copy of your driving record or motor vehicle report (MVR) from the state that issued the card.
      • The MVR must be dated within the last 60 days.
      • Note: A copy can be faxed to DDS directly from the other state agency.

    • Documentation showing your identity, residential address, and U.S. citizenship or proof of lawful status in the United States. Please refer to Real ID Requirements for more information.

  • At your visit

    Be prepared to:

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