Commercial drivers in Nevada must be licensed by the Nevada Department of Motor Vehicles. The DMV first issues a Nevada CDL permit when an applicant passes the initial written knowledge test. The applicant can then engage in CDL training on the roads of Nevada. After completing hands-on training, the applicant can then get a full Nevada commercial driver’s license by successfully passing a hands-on skills and driving test.
Step 1:
Get a copy of the Nevada CDL manual. In addition to local Nevada DMV offices, you can also access the Nevada “Commercial Drivers License Handbook” online at Dmvstat.com/pdfforms/dlbookcomm.pdf. The manual has general sections that apply to all commercial drivers and other sections that apply only to applicants for certain endorsements. An example of a CDL endorsement is hazardous materials. You only have to study these portions if you intend to operate a commercial vehicle or haul cargo related to that endorsement.
Step 2:
Find other Nevada CDL test resources. Many websites online have either a “CDL study guide” or “CDL practice questions.” Look for those in a search engine and use them to supplement your study of the official Nevada CDL manual.
Step 3:
Schedule a knowledge test at the local DMV after you feel confident you can pass the test. When you do pass, then the DMV will give you a Nevada CDL permit. You can use that permit to practice on and drive a commercial motor vehicle on the open roads in Nevada provided you are under the supervision of a licensed CDL driver.
Step 4:
Find a way to get Nevada CDL training. Nowadays, there are several ways to get training as a commercial driver. For example, prospective truck drivers can go to truck driver training school. You can find certified CDL training programs in and around Nevada with the Professional Truck Driver Institute. Access the list of CDL schools at Ptdi.org/schools/schools.aspx. Although there are no certified Nevada CDL schools on this list, you can find a school in neighboring Idaho or Arizona. You might also find a school in Nevada. Just ensure that you get a recommendation from an exisiting licensed driver before attending a non-certified school.
There are several ways to train for a career as a bus driver. Private companies like Greyhound often have their own free training programs for passenger-bus drivers. Local Nevada school districts also may have commercial training programs for school bus drivers.
Step 5:
Complete your training and schedule a CDL skills test (which includes driving for some applicants). You can then finally receive a Nevada CDL license once you pass this skills test.
Note that you generally must supply your own vehicle for the skills/driving test. In many cases, you can get the use of a vehicle from a training school, employer or rental agency.
Notes:
1. All CDL drivers must pass a medical exam to get a license in any U.S. state. You may download the necessary medical form at Fmcsa.dot.gov/documents/forms/649f.pdf. Take that to a doctor and schedule an appointment before your Nevada CDL knowledge test.
2. If you will hauling hazardous materials with a HAZMAT endorsement, you need to undergo a threat assessment (background check). Go to Hazprints.com to apply for this federal requirement.
Sources:
Nevada CDL Manual
Certified Truck Driving Schools Around Nevada
