ClassMetric

How to get a CDL

Your state issues it under federal FMCSA rules: knowledge tests, a learner’s permit, entry-level training, then a skills test in the truck you’ll drive.

CDL Air BrakesReading the air pressure gauge Your airThis gauge shows your supply pressure.Building pressureStart the engine and the compressor builds pressure. At about one twenty five the governor cuts out.Cut-inUse the brakes and pressure drops. Around one hundred psi the governor cuts back in and refills the tanks.
18 / 21in-state / interstate age
80%to pass each knowledge test
14 dayspermit before skills test
$58,640truck driver median pay

How to get it, step by step

  1. Check your age and get a DOT physical

    You can drive within your state at 18; across state lines, 21. Most commercial driving also needs a DOT physical from a medical examiner on FMCSA’s National Registry.2,3,6

  2. Pass the knowledge tests

    Everyone takes general knowledge. Add air brakes to drive a truck that has them, combination vehicles for Class A, and one for each endorsement. You need 80% on each; our class preps air brakes.1,7,8,11

  3. Get your commercial learner’s permit

    You need a regular driver’s license from the same state. With the permit you practice only with a CDL holder in the seat beside you, and it lasts up to a year.1,6

  4. Finish entry-level driver training

    For a first Class A or B license, train in theory and behind the wheel with a provider on FMCSA’s Training Provider Registry. It applies to permits issued since February 7, 2022.4,5,6

  5. Wait 14 days, then take the skills test

    Three parts: vehicle inspection, basic controls and a road test, in a vehicle that represents the class you want. Test without air brakes and your license is restricted.1,6,8,12

  6. Keep your medical card current

    A DOT physical is good for up to 24 months, or less when the examiner wants to watch a condition such as high blood pressure.3

CDL Air Brakes: lesson plan and practice →

The exam, and the money

The exam

Knowledge tests
General knowledge; air brakes, combination and endorsements as needed1,7,8,11
Passing score
80% on each knowledge test7
Skills test
Vehicle inspection, basic controls and a road test6
Wait before skills test
14 days after your permit is issued1,6
Test vehicle
One that represents your class; no air brakes means a restriction8,12
Training first
Entry-level training before the skills test, for a first Class A or B4,6

The money

State fees (Texas)
$25 permit, $97 CDL good for 8 years9
DOT physical
Renew at least every 24 months3
Typical pay
$58,640 a year, median for heavy truck drivers (BLS, May 2025)10

Study for the exam

25 lessons in 5 chapters · about 5 minutes each

  1. 1How air brakes work5

    5.0 Air Brakes; 5.1 The Parts of an Air Brake System (5.1.1–5.1.10)

    1. Reading the air brake pressure gauge Lesson 1 · free
    2. Three brake systems in one
    3. Compressor, governor and safety valve
    4. Keeping the air clean and dry
    5. Foundation brakes and slack adjusters
  2. 2Warnings, valves and spring brakes5

    5.1 The Parts of an Air Brake System (5.1.11–5.1.15); 5.2 Dual Air Brake

    1. The low-air warning
    2. Stop light switch and limiting valve
    3. Spring brakes: the fail-safe
    4. Parking brake controls
    5. Primary and secondary air systems
  3. 3Inspecting air brakes6

    5.3 Inspecting Air Brake Systems

    1. Air brakes in the seven-step inspection
    2. Checking slack adjusters and drums
    3. Governor cut-in and cut-out test
    4. Static and applied leakage tests
    5. Low-air warning and spring brakes test
    6. Build-up rate and brake tests
  4. 4Using air brakes5

    5.1.16 Antilock Braking Systems (ABS); 5.4 Using Air Brakes

    1. Normal stops and ABS
    2. Controlled and stab braking
    3. Brake lag and stopping distance
    4. Brake fade on long downgrades
    5. Low air pressure and parking
  5. 5Trailers and your test4

    6.2 Combination Vehicle Air Brakes; 49 CFR 383.95 air brake restriction

    1. Trailer air lines and glad hands
    2. Tractor protection and trailer supply valves
    3. The air brake restriction
    4. Test day

Built on CDL Manual (AAMVA 2025 CDL Testing System), Section 5 Air Brakes and 6.2 Combination Vehicle Air Brakes; 49 CFR 383.111(b) · March 2025

The full class, $19 at launch.

Paid once, when it opens. Lesson 1 is free now.

  • Animated systems
  • Your state’s manual numbers
  • Practice tests that explain

Not affiliated with FMCSA or any state DMV. Check your state’s CDL manual.

Questions

Can you get a CDL at 18?

Yes, to drive within your state. Federal rules require you to be 21 to drive a commercial vehicle in interstate commerce.2

How long does CDL training take?

FMCSA sets no minimum hours for theory or behind-the-wheel training: you finish when you score 80% on the theory test and your instructor finds you proficient. BLS says community college programs run 3 to 6 months.5,10

Can you take CDL classes online?

The theory part, yes, from a provider on FMCSA’s registry. Behind-the-wheel training has to happen in a real truck of the class you want; simulators don’t count.5

How long does a CDL permit last?

Up to one year from when it’s first issued, without retaking the tests; your state may set less. Texas permits last 180 days and can be renewed.1,9

Sources

Read on . Rules change, so check the source before you pay a fee or book a test.

  1. 49 CFR 383.25 Commercial learner’s permit (CLP) · FMCSA (eCFR)
  2. Safe Driver Apprenticeship Pilot Program Frequently Asked Questions · FMCSA
  3. DOT Medical Exam and Commercial Motor Vehicle Certification · FMCSA
  4. ELDT Applicability · FMCSA Training Provider Registry
  5. Training Requirements FAQs · FMCSA Training Provider Registry
  6. How do I get a Commercial Driver's License? · FMCSA
  7. 49 CFR 383.135 Passing knowledge and skills tests · FMCSA (eCFR)
  8. 49 CFR 383.95 Restrictions · FMCSA (eCFR)
  9. Driver License Fees · Texas Department of Public Safety
  10. Heavy and Tractor-trailer Truck Drivers, Occupational Outlook Handbook · U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
  11. 49 CFR 383.93 Endorsements · FMCSA (eCFR)
  12. 49 CFR 383.133 Testing methods · FMCSA (eCFR)

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