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Commercial Driver's License (CDL) Application

Updated on Thu, 4/28/2011

BASIC REQUIREMENTS FOR A COMMERCIAL DRIVER'S PERMIT/LICENSE

  • Must meet requirements for an Oklahoma Driver's License.
  • Certify that you are in agreement with state motor carrier safety regulations. See Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration or call (800) 522-8165 (Toll free Assistance) for more information.
  • Provide a valid Medical Examiner's Certificate. You can obtain one by having a licensed medical professional fill out the appropriate Medical Examination Report for Commercial Driver Fitness reports. The medical examiner should provide you with a Medical Examiner's Certificate.
  • Provide proof of identity.
  • Provide proof of legal presence.
  • Provide proof of Oklahoma residency.
  • Provide your Social security number.

STEPS TO APPLY FOR A CDL PERMIT/LICENSE

  1. You must meet the requirements for an Oklahoma Driver's License.
  2. Fill out the CDL application form and hand in in-person to a DPS office. For more information see Instruction Permit section below.
  3. Pay a $21.50 fee for your permit.
  4. Pass the CDL knowledge exams. See the CDL Manual for the required information. The exam can be taken at any DPS location and there is a $4.00 fail fee which is charged every time you fail till you clear the exam.
  5. Pass vision screening test.
  6. 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
  7. Take road test at your local DPS office.
  8. Once you have cleared the tests you will have to fill a form and submit it to a Tag Agent who will issue the CDL.
  9. Pay license and endorsement fees.

INSTRUCTION PERMIT

In order to be eligible for an Oklahoma CDL, you must first obtain a CDL instruction permit. First, you must fill out the CDL application form. Then show proof of legal presence and US residency. Next, pay the $21.50 permit fee. Lastly, pass the CDL general knowledge exam and vision screening test. Oklahoma Instruction Permits expire in 1 year.

FEES

An Oklahoma Commercial Driver's License will cost you $41.50 for a standard CDL license.

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).
  • Air Brakes (Class L).

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.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES