Commercial Driver FAQs in Louisiana

Below are some of the most frequently asked questions regarding commercial vehicles, drivers, and licenses. If you don't find what you're looking for here, refer to the Commercial Driver's Manual.

I know the application fee is $15, but what other costs accompany a CDL?

Your third-party skills test costs $60, unless you rent one of their commercial vehicles. In this case, the amount depends on the third-party.

Your license costs $51 in the Orleans parish. All other parishes charge $41.

A motorcycle endorsement is $8. All other endorsements are $5.

You're also required to pay any parish fees and CDL physical charges.

If you're getting a hazmat endorsement, there's a federal fee payable to the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) of $89.25 for a background check and fingerprints.

What should I expect when I take the skills test?

The skills test consists of three parts: a pre-test inspection, a basic control skills, and a road test.

During these tests, you'll demonstrate your ability to inspect your commercial vehicle to determine whether or not it's safe to operate, your ability to control the commercial vehicle, and your ability to operate the commercial vehicle in various on-road situations.

Can I have multiple licenses?

No. If you have more than one license, you can be fined $5,000 and/or go to jail. The Commercial Driver License Information System (CDLIS) prevents drivers from obtaining multiple and fraudulent licenses.

How old do I have to be to transport hazardous materials?

You must be at least age 21.

What is an out-of-service order?

An out-of-service order is a minimum of 24 hours that you're not allowed to operate a commercial vehicle.

I was ticketed for a traffic violation last week. What do I need to do?

When you're convicted of any moving traffic violation, you are required to notify both your employer and your motor vehicle license agency within 30 days of the conviction. However, this rule does not apply to parking tickets.

What are the medically disqualifying conditions?

In short, if you're missing or have a disabled body part that affects your ability to safely operate a commercial vehicle, you'll be medically disqualified.

A diagnosis of diabetes, angina, or most coronary and respiratory conditions will also result in medical disqualification.

Refer to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration website for more details.

Can a CDL be suspended just like a regular driver license?

Yes. The following violations could result in suspension:

60 days

• First conviction of operating a commercial vehicle without the appropriate CDL for that vehicle

• First conviction of violating a railroad-highway grade crossing

90 days

• First conviction of violating an out-of-service order

120 days

• Second conviction in three years of violating a railroad-highway grade crossing

180 days

• Second conviction of operating a commercial vehicle without the appropriate CDL for that vehicle

One year

• Third conviction of operating a commercial vehicle without the appropriate CDL for that vehicle

• Second conviction of violating an out-of-service order

• Third conviction (or more) in three years of violating a railroad-highway grade crossing

• First conviction of operating a commercial vehicle under the influence of alcohol or controlled substances

• First conviction of using the commercial vehicle to commit a felony

• First conviction of leaving the scene of an accident involving your commercial vehicle

• First conviction of refusing to submit to a drug and/or alcohol test while operating a commercial motor vehicle

Three years

• Third conviction of violating an out-of-service order

Life

• Second conviction of operating a commercial vehicle under the influence of alcohol or controlled substances

• Using the commercial vehicle to commit more than one felony

For more information about suspended CDLs and reinstatements, call 1-877-368-5463 or contact your local reinstatement office.

I'm moving to Louisiana. How do I transfer my current CDL?

To transfer your CDL, you must provide your current valid CDL, a clearance letter or a copy of your driving record, appropriate identification, your Social Security card, proof of insurance, and cash payment for any fees.

You'll be required to take the vision exam. If you wish to keep your hazmat endorsement, you must also pass the written exam.

I can't find any information pertaining to my question. Help!

If you can't find what you need here, call the DMV LINE at 1-877-368-5463 or complete an online inquiry.

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