The Department of Driver Services is committed to expediting the entry of veterans into civilian employment through the transportation industry.  This information is for Military Service Members applying for a Georgia Commercial License.

General Information

The Military CDL Skills Test Waiver will allow qualified military service members the option to apply for a Commercial Driver License (CDL) without having to take the skills (road) test.

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.

  • Get Prepared

    Military service members must complete the  Download this pdf file.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).

    NOTE: 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.

    • CDL Application Fee - $35
    • License Fee - $32

    Note:  If you currently have a Veteran's (Combat) Status on your License your fees may be waived. 

     

  • Application Process

    1. Complete the Military Waiver Application and mail it along with all required 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 required documents:
      1. Completed and signed application for the Download this pdf file.Military CDL Skills Test Waiver
      2. Valid military license or equivalent based on the branch of service if, applicable
      3. Active Military ID or DD214
      4. Medical Certification if, required. Download this pdf file.( Self Certification-Medical Certification Checklist  )
      5. Real ID Required Documents (if, previously not submitted)

     

     

  • Commercial Driver's License Restrictions

    Based on the responses from the Download this pdf file.Military CDL Skills Test Waiver application, the following restrictions may apply:

    • Full air brakes - No restriction code required
    • 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

     

  • Things to Note

    CDL knowledge (written) test(s) cannot be waived, but 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.