What is a CDL and when do I need one?

A CDL is a commercial driver's license. Like a normal license for passenger vehicles, commercial licenses are issued by the Arizona Department of Transportation's Motor Vehicles Division (MVD). The following vehicles require you to have a CDL in order to operate them:

• If you will drive a combination vehicle (truck and trailer) whose trailer has a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 10,001 pounds or more and whose total weight with the truck is 26,001 pounds or more, you will need a Class A CDL.

• If you will drive a vehicle whose GVWR is 26,001 pounds or more, you will need a Class B CDL. With this license, you can also tow a trailer whose weight does not exceed 10,000 pounds.

• If you will transport hazardous materials or more than 15 people (including the driver) in a vehicle whose GVWR is 26,000 pounds or less, you will need a Class C CDL.

Can I test for a CDL at any MVD location?

No. You must apply for your CDL and take both the written and on-road skills tests at a designated CDL MVD office.

Can I apply for or renew a CDL online?

No. Instead, you must submit a renewal form at your local designated CDL MVD, submit a current Department of Transportation (DOT) Physical Examination Form, and pay a renewal fee to keep your license valid.

Where can I learn the skills necessary for my CDL tests?

The MVD has approved third-party companies to assist you with everything from training to testing for your CDL. The list of companies is divided into two sections: commercial truck drivers and commercial bus drivers. The companies are essential for drivers who are training and testing without the support of an employer, as the MVD cannot provide vehicles for driving practice or testing.

How do I apply for an endorsement?

If you are applying for an endorsement along with your regular CDL application, you will have to take an extra written test and pay a $10 application fee per endorsement.

If you are applying for a hazardous materials (hazmat) endorsement, the USA PATRIOT Act requires that you undergo a background records check (BRC). To qualify for the BRC, you must first complete the required CDL and hazmat written tests. Then the MVD will provide you with a Hazmat Background Check Authorization Form to take to an authorized agency for fingerprinting.

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