BASIC REQUIREMENTS FOR A COMMERCIAL DRIVER'S PERMIT/LICENSE

• Must hold a current and valid Missouri Driver's license.
• Must be 18 years of age to hold a CDL and 21 years of age, if you require hazardous material endorsement.
• Provide proof.
• Provide proof of proper identification.
• Provide proof of Missouri residency.
• Provide proof of your Social security number.

STEPS TO APPLY FOR A CDL PERMIT/LICENSE

1. Fill out the CDL application hand it in-person to a MVDL office.
2. Pass vision screening test.
3. Pass all the CDL knowledge exams based on your license class and endorsements needed. See the CDL Manual for the required information. The exam can be taken at any Missouri State highway Patrol locations.
4. There is no mandatory requirement that you take a Commercial driver's education program specifically for commercial motor vehicles but opting to enroll in such a program will help you to perform well in your knowledge exam.
5. Take the skill tests at the state highway patrol designated locations, by taking an appointment. Skill tests include pre trip vehicle inspection, Basic vehicle control and road test.
6. Pay license/permit and endorsement here.

FEES

A Missouri Commercial Driver's License instruction permit is valid for 6 months and its fee is $7.50. A three year CDL costs 22.50 and a 6 year CDL costs $45. A duplicate license can be made for additional charges, in case of loss of the primary one.

CDL ENDORSEMENTS

The following is a list of endorsements you can get on your CDL:

• Hazardous Material (Class H).
• Tank Vehicles (Class N).
• Passenger-Carrying Vehicle (Class P).
• School Bus (Class S).
• Towing a Double or Triple Trailer (Class T).

HAZARDOUS MATERIALS (HAZMAT)

This is an endorsement required if you are driving a commercial motor vehicle that transports hazardous materials. There are specific background checks and knowledge exams that you need to pass in order to receive this endorsement on your CDL. Please see the HAZMAT endorsement article for more detailed information.

FEDERAL GUIDELINES FOR INTERSTATE DRIVERS

The following is a list of federal requirements for interstate drivers.

• Certify that you are in agreement with state motor carrier safety regulations. See Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration for more information.
• You need to be certified as medically and physically fit by US Department of Transportation.
• Have the correct class of license. See Classes of CDLs, Restrictions and Endorsements for more details.
• See Missouri's Commercial Driver's Manual for more information on state regulations and guidelines.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

• If you already have a CDL, see CDL renewal.
• For more information regarding test centers and hours and locations see your local MVDL office.
• See Missouri's Commercial Driver's Manual for knowledge exam information.