The Wyoming Driver Services Program of the Department of Transportation issues driver’s licenses throughout the state. Commercial drivers (those who driver big rigs, buses and other large vehicles) must get a special Wyoming CDL license to operate commercial motor vehicles on the roads of Wyoming. Applicants must first pass a written knowledge test to get a learner’s CDL permit. With that permit, drivers can train on and drive actual vehicles with a licensed instructor. After getting training, an applicant can take and pass a skills test to get his Wyoming commercial driver’s license.
Step 1:
Access the “Wyoming Commercial Driver License Manual” at dot.state.wy.us/webdav/site/wydot/shared/Driver_Services/CDL Manual.pdf. You can also drop by a Driver Services Program office to pick up a copy of the Wyoming CDL manual.
Step 2:
Print out the medical examination form at Fmcsa.dot.gov/documents/forms/649f.pdf. All Wyoming and U.S. commercial driver’s license applicants must pass a medical fitness exam. The doctor will sign the certificate (DOT medical card) at the bottom of the exam form. Take that with you when applying for a Wyoming CDL license.
Step 3:
Use the Wyoming CDL manual and related study aids to prepare for the written CDL knowledge test. Several websites have free or low-cost materials to study for the Wyoming CDL test. Search for “CDL study guide” and “CDL practice test” in any search engine.
Note that a CDL test is a bit different than the standard driver’s license test. There are general portions in the manual that all commercial drivers must study. But the other portions, such as HAZMAT and air brakes, are special endorsements required to operate or haul certain vehicles or cargo. Study these and take only the endorsement tests that apply to your future driving duties. If you are not sure, you can just study the entire manual.
Note: The HAZMAT endorsement has a requirement of a safety threat assessment. Go to Hazprints.com if you anticipate needing a license to haul hazardous materials. You can apply for the background check from that website.
Step 4:
Schedule and take the written test at a local Wyoming Driver Services Program office. You can then receive a Wyoming CDL permit to use for training on actual vehicles and driving under the supervision of a CDL licensed driver.
Step 5:
Complete CDL training. Both employers and schools offer training in and around Wyoming. Check out the Professional Truck Driver Institute at Ptdi.org/schools/schools.aspx. Inquire about job prospects and training with Greyhound and other passenger companies (see the website for application procedures). You should also ask Wyoming school districts about opportunities for training as a school bus driver.
Step 6:
Schedule a CDL skills/driving test with the Driver Services Program. Although there are third-party testing services in Wyoming, they may test only their own employees. Thus, unless you have an employer for work as a commercial driver, you must take your test directly with the state. You must provide a vehicle for testing. Ask your training school or current truck or bus drivers about how to rent or borrow a commercial vehicle for the test.
Step 7:
Receive a Wyoming CDL license upon successful completion of the skills and driving test. With the license, you can drive inside the state if under 21 and interstate if you are at least 21 years of age.
Sources:
Wyoming CDL Manual
Certified Truck Driver Training In and Around Wyoming
