Commercial Driver Education

Massachusetts has no specific education requirements to obtain a CDL. If you meet the age and physical requirements and can pass the written and road tests, you can get the basic CDL without any specific educational requirements.

That doesn't mean you shouldn't invest in some education, especially before attempting the written and road exams. And there are some specific educational requirements for obtaining and keeping CDL endorsements.

Education is Needed, if not Required

If you want a CDL, you're going to have to pass some tough federal and state requirements. The Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV) requires you to take and pass a 50-question exam, with a minimum of 40 correct answers to pass.

And that's just to get the learner's permit. Obtaining a Class A or Class B CDL requires you to pass a road test that will encompass a vehicle inspection and driving in a closed course and on the road.

To pass these exams, you're going to need to study for the written (knowledge) test and practice for the road (skills) exam. And since there are no state requirements, it's going to be up to you to decide how you want to do that and what you want to pay.

Massachusetts CDL Manual

The easiest and least expensive way to study for the CDL written exam is to use the Massachusetts CDL Manual. This manual, which is also available in printed form from any RMV office, details everything you need to know about the application process, studying for the written exam and preparing for the road test. At the very least, you should study the manual before attempting to take the written exam.

Truck Driving Schools

Many CDL applicants take classes at private truck driving schools. These classes offer both classroom and hands-on instruction and are designed to help you pass the written and road exams. The schools even provide trucks and licensed instructors to help you pass the exam.

The good news: You can learn everything you need to know in 10 days to two weeks and classes are offered regularly. The bad news: These schools can be expensive. Expect to pay $5,000 and more to attend one of these sessions.

Education Requirements for School Bus Endorsements

To become a licensed school bus driver in Massachusetts, you need 20 hours of pre-service training from the company you will work for. To renew a school bus license (which expires annually), you must prove that you have received at least eight hours of in-service training.

Before you receive your permit, you should also study the Massachusetts CDL Manual, as well as the Massachusetts School Bus Manual.