How Old Do You Have to Be to Get a CDL License? A Complete Guide

If you’ve ever wondered how old to get a CDL license?, you’re not alone. The idea of becoming a commercial driver is exciting, but there are certain age requirements, limitations, and procedures that you need to understand first. At the 2020 CDL Training, we help potential drivers not only understand the rules but also the training and licensing process, enabling you to start your career with confidence.

The Federal Rules: 18 vs. 21 Years Old

The federal laws, as established by the FMCSA (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration), have declared that the minimum age to hold a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) is 18 years. The big difference, however, lies in the fact that drivers who are below 21 years of age are only allowed to drive within their own state.

To drive a commercial vehicle across state boundaries (interstate commerce), you must be 21 or older. So, this means that you can get a CDL at 18, but at this age, your choices will be quite restricted until you are 21. During this period, most young drivers focus on gaining valuable in-state driving experience, building confidence on the road, and mastering safety standards as well. This not only prepares them for interstate driving later but also makes them better drivers and competitive after they reach 21.

Why the Age Divide Exists

This age limit is concerned with safety and experience. The long-range driving of commercial vehicles introduces variables like cross-state traffic regulations, different road conditions, and higher responsibility. The law assumes that drivers who are 21 or older are more mature and experienced to handle those challenges.

In some states and programs, there are pilot exceptions or apprenticeship programs that allow 18-20 year olds under certain conditions (for example, supervised driving, additional training). But these are not universal and are often performed under strict oversight.

CDL Classes and Age Expectations

Depending on the type of vehicles and the load, there are different classes of CDLs (A, B, C). The age regulations generally apply across all classes:

• Class A & B: 18 + for in-state and 21+ for interstate operations. Most heavy and combination vehicles fall under these classes, thus starting at 18 gives you a head start in gaining a real-world experience before qualifying for cross-state routes.
• Class C or special endorsements: This class may have additional restrictions depending on the type of vehicle, passenger, or hazardous permits, etc. These usually involve additional tests and background checks, ensuring that drivers meet all required standards in terms of safety and regulations, before handling sensitive or high-risk cargo.

At 2020 CDL Training, we walk students through what classes they need based on their objective and explain the age-related restrictions that might exist.

What Steps You’ll Take Before Getting That CDL

Knowing the age regulations is important, but there are a few other steps that you need to pass to be given a CDL:

1. Get a Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP): Before you can test, most states require a permit first, which is held for a minimum period (often 14 days).
2. Pass Knowledge Tests: You’ll need to pass a written test of the federal and state laws of commercial driving.
3. Complete Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT): This federal rule is mandatory for first-time CDL holders and certain endorsements.
4. Pass a Road Skill Test: Demonstrate your ability to take control of the vehicle, inspect it, and drive safely.
5. Meet Medical and Background Requirements: You’ll need to pass a DOT physical exam, show proof of identity/residency, and pass the other necessary checks.

We provide systematic coursework, on-road driving sessions, and guidance on test preparation for both knowledge and skills tests, all as per the age-based rules.

Tips for Young Drivers (Aged 18–20)

If you’re between 18 and 20 with the question, ‘how old to get cdl license’ and want to get started:

• Pay attention to the intrastate opportunities to build your experience in your home state before you proceed to interstate roles.
• Select the training programs with a solid reputation, such as the one at 2020 CDL Training, which features safe driving and compliance with the pilot or apprenticeship models.
• Have a clean driving record and dedicated practice; professionalism pays off!
• Keep up with the latest updates, as there are some pilot programs that are exploring expanded interstate eligibility for younger drivers.

FAQs

1. What is the youngest age to get a CDL?

The youngest age to get a CDL is 18 years old for in-state driving. And, to drive across the state borders or transport risky materials, you must be at least 21 or old.

2. What is the easiest CDL to get?

The easiest CDL to get is generally the Class C CDL, since it applies to smaller commercial vehicles or passenger vans. This does not require the same level of training as the larger trucks do.

3. Which is the hardest CDL test?

The hardest CDL test is the Class A CDL, as it includes mastering large combination vehicles, multiple trailers, and complex road skills.

4. Which CDL is better?

The Class A CDL is the most versatile and in-demand of the others as it allows you to operate a wide range of commercial vehicles, which includes those covered under Class B and C.

5. Which CDL is the most common?

The most common CDL among commercial drivers is the Class A CDL, especially for those who work in long-haul trucking and freight transport across state lines.