Veteran's Day Closing
Offices Closed Nov 9th & 11th, 2024 in observance.
How Do I …
Apply for a Military CDL Skills Test Waiver or Even Exchange?
The CDL Military Waiver or Even Exchange allows qualified military service members to apply for a Commercial License (CDL) without having to take the road test.
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Get Prepared
- Military service members that satisfy ALL the following criteria are eligible for the waiver:
- Active duty or military service members that have been honorably discharged within 1 year or less.
- Active duty or military service members that are experienced in operating a commercial motor vehicle (CMV) that is of the same class and type, for at least 2 years immediately preceding his/her honorable discharge from the military.
- Even Exchange Program- CDL knowledge test waiver
- Certain MOS/Ratings can apply for an even exchange of Military Commercial Motor Vehicle training and experience for a Georgia CDL. Please view the detailed explanation of even exchange on the waiver application for more details on the Even Exchange Program
NOTE: Military service members that DO NOT meet the above criteria must apply through the regular CDL process. For more information visit the CDL Homepage.
- Military service members must complete the Application For Military CDL Skills Test Waiver or Even Exchange Form in its entirety.
- The application must be completed and signed by the military service member.
- A Certificate of Commercial Driving Experience will be emailed to the applicant's Commanding Officer (CO). The Certificate must be completed and signed by the CO.
- The CO must certify what kind of vehicle(s) the applicant has operated, for at least 2 years immediately preceding his/her discharge from the military.
- Be prepared to pay all fees at the time of issuance. (Do not send fees with your application.)
- CDL Application Fee - $35
- License Fee - $32
- If you currently have a Veteran's (Combat) Status on your License your fees may be waived.
- Military service members that satisfy ALL the following criteria are eligible for the waiver:
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Application Process
Complete the electronic Military Waiver Application:
- Please allow at least 30 DAYS to process your application. (Incomplete applications or missing supporting documents applications will not be processed.)
- Once processed, an approval letter will be mailed to the military service member along with further instructions.
- The military service member can visit any DDS Customer Service Center to present the approval letter and take the appropriate knowledge test(s).
- The military service member must successfully pass the knowledge test (minimum passing score of 80 for all CDL tests).
- To ensure you have all the necessary documentation/forms please reference the following list:
- Complete and sign the Application For Military CDL Skills Test Waiver or Even Exchange Form
- Valid military license based on the branch of service.
- DD214 or Military Orders with End of Active Service (EAS) date.
- Operator's Qualification Record
- Submit Medical Certification, if required, when you visit DDS. ( Self Certification-Medical Certification Checklist )
- Bring in your Real ID Documents (if, previously not submitted) when you visit DDS.
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Commercial Driver's License Restrictions
Based on the responses from the application, the following restrictions may apply:
- Full air brakes - No restriction code require
- Air over Hydraulic - Restriction code Z
- No Air brakes - Restriction code L
- Only gooseneck truck (no Truck Trailer) - Restriction code O
- Automatic Transmission – Restriction code E