California CDL Information

A commercial driver’s license (CDL) is one of the first steps to a great-paying career as a commercial truck driver. However, in order to drive a commercial vehicle (CMV) in California, you must first obtain a California CDL. Drivers Legal Plan, the Nation’s Leading CDL Defense Law Firm, has summarized many of the steps and requirements for obtaining your CDL in California.

Please note that your state and the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regularly update these CDL requirements. Please visit the State of California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) website and the FMCSA website for the most authoritative and up-to-date information regarding CDL requirements and processes.

Obtaining your commercial driver’s license (CDL) in California requires that you meet all federal and state regulations before you can apply. Federal regulations require that applicants be at least 18 years of age. Before the state will issue you a CDL, you must first be issued a commercial learner’s permit (CLP), for which you are eligible when you pass the knowledge test portion of the process.

There are a number of requirements you will need to meet before applying for either your CDL or CLP. You can find more details on our CDL Requirements page.

Remember, the most important thing to remember when you receive a ticket is that you should never just pay the ticket or the court fees without first talking to a legal representative who understands trucking laws. While you want to maintain a clean driving record, unforeseen violations can happen. When they do, you need expert legal protection. Drivers Legal Plan, the Nation's Leading CDL Defense Law Firm, is ready to defend your rights and your career.