Renewal: CDLs must be renewed every 4 to 8 years depending on the issuing state. Most states require renewal every 5 years. Drivers must also complete Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) requirements that took effect in February 2022 for new applicants.

CDL Class A/B Commercial Driver's License

A Commercial Driver's License (CDL) is a federally mandated credential required to operate large or heavy vehicles in the United States. Class A covers combination vehicles with a gross combination weight rating (GCWR) of 26,001 pounds or more, while Class B covers single vehicles with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 26,001 pounds or more. The CDL program is governed by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) under 49 CFR Part 383.

Who Needs This

Any driver operating a commercial motor vehicle (CMV) on public roads must hold a valid CDL. This includes long-haul truck drivers, delivery drivers operating heavy vehicles, bus drivers carrying 16 or more passengers, and drivers transporting hazardous materials in quantities requiring placarding. Owner-operators and company drivers alike are subject to this requirement.

Penalties for Non-Compliance

Operating a CMV without a valid CDL carries fines of up to $5,000 for the driver and up to $10,000 for the employer under FMCSA regulations. A first offense can result in a civil penalty of $2,500 to $5,000. Employers who knowingly allow unlicensed drivers to operate CMVs face fines up to $10,000 per violation. Repeated violations can lead to CDL disqualification for 60 days to one year, or lifetime disqualification for certain offenses.

Key Requirements

Be at least 18 years old (intrastate) or 21 years old (interstate) and hold a valid non-commercial driver's license

Pass the DOT physical examination and obtain a valid Medical Examiner's Certificate (DOT medical card)

Complete Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) from a registered training provider listed on the FMCSA Training Provider Registry

Pass the CDL knowledge test (general knowledge plus any endorsement-specific sections) at your state DMV

Pass the CDL skills test consisting of a pre-trip vehicle inspection, basic vehicle control maneuvers, and an on-road driving test

Provide a 10-year employment history and pass a pre-employment drug and alcohol screening as required by FMCSA

How CertTracker Automates CDL Tracking

Automatically tracks CDL expiration dates for every driver and sends escalating reminders at 90, 60, 30, and 7 days before expiry so renewals are never missed

Monitors associated endorsements (HAZMAT, tanker, doubles/triples) alongside the CDL, ensuring all credentials stay current simultaneously

Generates compliance-ready reports showing fleet-wide CDL status, making DOT audit preparation fast and stress-free

Stores digital copies of each driver's CDL and links them to their DOT medical card, HAZMAT endorsement, and other required documents in one unified profile

Related Certifications

Trucking

DOT Medical Card

Renewal: The standard DOT medical card is valid for up to 24 months (2 years). However, drivers with certain health conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes treated with insulin (under the Federal Diabetes Exemption Program), or other monitored conditions may receive a certificate valid for only 12 months or less, requiring more frequent examinations.

Trucking

HAZMAT

Renewal: The HAZMAT endorsement must be renewed every 5 years. However, the TSA security threat assessment must also be renewed every 5 years, and the timing may not align with the CDL renewal cycle. Drivers should begin the TSA background check process at least 60 days before their endorsement expires to avoid gaps in eligibility. Some states require retesting of the HAZMAT knowledge exam at each renewal.

Stop Worrying About CDL Expirations

CertTracker sends automatic alerts at 90, 60, 30, and 7 days before any certification expires.

No credit card required. Setup in 15 minutes.