New Jersey CDL license requirements

Before starting the process, make sure you meet the following basic requirements to be eligible for a CDL:

Minimum Age

  • You must be at least 18 years old to drive within the state of New Jersey.
  • If you want to drive out of state (interstate), you must be at least 21 years old.

Residency

  • You must be a resident of New Jersey or have a valid address in the state.

Regular Driver’s License

  • You must hold a valid regular driver's license (non-commercial) from New Jersey.

Medical Examinations

  • You need to pass a medical exam conducted by a DOT-certified doctor to ensure you are fit to operate commercial vehicles.
Index
  1. Minimum Age
  2. Residency
  3. Regular Driver’s License
  4. Medical Examinations
  • Required Documents
  • Steps to Obtain a CDL in New Jersey
    1. Step 1: Obtain a Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP)
    2. Step 2: Take the Knowledge Test
    3. Step 3: Skills Test (Practical)
    4. Step 4: Medical Exam
    5. Step 5: Pay Fees and License Issuance
  • CDL License Types
    1. Class A
    2. Class B
    3. Class C
  • Additional Requirements
    1. Special Endorsements
    2. CDL Renewal
  • Tips for Passing the Tests

    • Required Documents

    • Proof of identity: such as a passport or Social Security card.
    • Proof of residence: such as a utility bill or lease agreement.
    • Social Security number.
    New Jersey CDL license requirements

    Steps to Obtain a CDL in New Jersey

    Step 1: Obtain a Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP)

    Before taking the driving test, you must first obtain a Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP).

    Requirements:

    • Be at least 18 years old.
    • Pass the written knowledge test (covering traffic rules, signs, and commercial driving regulations).
    • Provide proof of identity and residence.
    • Complete a license authorization form.

    Step 2: Take the Knowledge Test

    The written test covers topics such as:

    • Traffic signs and driving regulations.
    • Safety rules and procedures for driving commercial vehicles.
    • Federal and state regulations regarding the transport of hazardous materials (if applicable).

    Step 3: Skills Test (Practical)

    Once you have your CLP, you can take the skills test. This includes:

    Vehicle Inspection

    • You will learn how to properly inspect the vehicle before driving, including brakes, lights, tires, and other important components.

    Driving Test

    • This practical test is done in the type of vehicle corresponding to the CDL class you are applying for (A, B, or C). You will have to perform basic maneuvers such as:
      • Driving on highways.
      • Parking.
      • Speed control and braking.

    Step 4: Medical Exam

    Before obtaining your CDL, you will need to pass a medical exam to ensure you are physically capable of driving a commercial vehicle.

    Medical Requirements:

    • Vision: You must have at least 20/40 vision in both eyes, with or without correction.
    • Hearing: You must be able to hear warning signals from traffic and other vehicles.
    • Physical condition: You should not have medical conditions that would jeopardize road safety.

    Step 5: Pay Fees and License Issuance

    Once you pass all exams, you will need to pay the required fees to issue your CDL. The cost varies depending on the license class you're applying for and the types of tests required.

    CDL License Types

    Depending on the type of vehicle you plan to drive, there are three types of CDL in New Jersey:

    Class A

    • For vehicles with a combined weight of over 26,001 pounds (such as tractor-trailers or vehicles with heavy trailers).

    Class B

    • For vehicles that weigh 26,001 pounds or more and are not combined with another vehicle. Example: large trucks or buses.

    Class C

    • For vehicles that transport 16 or more people or hazardous materials. Example: buses, school transport vehicles, or trucks carrying hazardous materials.

    Additional Requirements

    Special Endorsements

    Depending on the type of vehicle or cargo you plan to drive, you may need one or more endorsements on your CDL. Some of the most common include:

    • HazMat Endorsement: If you plan to transport hazardous materials, you will need an additional test and a background check by the Department of Homeland Security.
    • Passenger Transport Endorsement: If you plan to drive a passenger vehicle, like a bus, you will need this endorsement.
    • Double/Triple Trailer Endorsement: If you plan to drive vehicles with heavy trailers, you will need this endorsement.

    CDL Renewal

    The CDL needs to be renewed periodically, and you must meet certain medical requirements each time. The renewal is generally every 4 years.

    Tips for Passing the Tests

    1. Study in advance: Use the New Jersey commercial driver’s manual, available online or at the MVC, to study the topics for the knowledge test.
    2. Practice with simulators or commercial vehicles: If possible, take driving lessons with a certified instructor to be well-prepared for the practical test.
    3. Keep your documents organized: Ensure all required documents are ready and up to date.
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