How Do I Apply for a Military CDL Skills Test Waiver?

• 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.

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  Military CDL Skills Test Waiver form in its entirety.
  • The first page must be completed and signed by the military service member
  • The second page must be completed and signed by his/her Commanding Officer (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. 

1. Complete the Military Waiver Application and mail it along with all supporting documents to:

   • DDS-CDL Unit
     Attn: Military Waiver
     P.O. Box 80447
     Conyers, Georgia 30013

2. Please allow at least 30 DAYS to process your application. (Incomplete applications or missing supporting documents applications will not be processed.)
3. Once processed, an approval letter will be mailed to the military service member along with further instructions.
4. The military service member can visit any DDS Customer Service Center to present the approval letter and take the appropriate knowledge test(s).
5. The military service member must successfully pass the knowledge test (minimum passing score of 80 for all CDL tests).
6. To ensure you have all the necessary documentation/forms please reference the following list:
   • Completed and signed application for the Military CDL Skills Test Waiver
   • Valid military license or equivalent based on the branch of service if, applicable
   • Active Military ID, DD214, or ERB (Enlistment Record Brief)
   • 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. 

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

CDL knowledge (written) test(s) cannot be waived.  The only exception is with certain MOS/Ratings, you can apply to have an even exchange of Military Commercial Motor Vehicle training and experience for a Georgia CDL. Please view the last page of the waiver application for more details on the Even Exchange Program.