How to Get a Connecticut CDL License

All states must test a commercial driver’s ability to operate commercial vehicles like big rigs and passenger buses. The Connecticut DMV performs this testing task for commercial drivers in the state. Applicants must first study for and pass a CDL written test to get a commercial driver’s license (CDL license). After passing the written test, they can then train on actual vehicles. To receive an actual Connecticut CDL license, an applicant must then take and pass a hands-on CDL skills exam. The local DMV then issues a license provided that the applicant has passed on medical exams and other background checks.

Step 1:

Obtain a copy of the Connecticut CDL manual. You may access this “Connecticut Commercial Driver’s Manual” study guide online at Ct.gov/dmv/lib/dmv/20/29/comdr.pdf. Of course, you can also pick up a copy at the local Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles. The DMV is the office in your area that issues driver’s licenses for the state.

Step 2:

Study the CDL manual for the portions of the test that you will be taking. The portions that you must take and pass depend on the type of commercial vehicle that you will be driving. If you want to expand your career opportunities, then you can take all portions of the exam. A Connecticut CDL license will then include “endorsements” like HAZMAT or school buses if you pass all portions of the exam. Study each section thoroughly because you must pass any endorsement tests irrespective of your overall score on the Connecticut CDL exam.

Step 3:

Take the CDL written test at your local Connecticut DMV office. Upon passing the test, you can then receive a CDL permit. This permit allows you to do hands-on CDL training on the roads of Connecticut with actual commercial vehicles. You just need to be supervised by a fully licensed commercial driver when doing your training.

Step 4:

Look for a suitable CDL training program near you. The type of training you receive will depend on the type of job or vehicle you intend to obtain or drive. For example, if you are going to drive a big rig, you can attend a truck driving school. The Professional Truck Driver Institute has not certified any CDL program in Connecticut, as of October 2010. However, there are several schools in New York and other states near Connecticut. Refer to the map and PTDI school directory at Ptdi.org/schools/schools.aspx to find a school for your Connecticut CDL training.

In the case of other types of commercial driving jobs, you generally should look to the local Connecticut school system for job opportunities or private employers in the transporation industry. For example, Greyhound has a bus driver training program in many parts of the country. Visit their main website for more information.

Step 5:

Schedule a skills/driving exam to get your Connecticut CDL license. You must provide your own vehicle for this purpose. Therefore, check with your training provider before arranging a CDL skills test with your Connecticut DMV. For example, truck driving schools typically allow you to use one of their trucks to take the exam. In other cases, your local school district or transportation company will help you arrange a test.

Step 6:

Take the CDL skills test. After you pass this last exam, you can then receive a full Connecticut CDL license from the local Connecticut DMV office. However, you need to pass a medical exam and a background check in some cases. Ask the local DMV about these requirements.

Sources:

Connecticut CDL Manual

PTDI Certified Truck Driving Schools Near Connecticut