Commercial Driver FAQs in Kentucky

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 CDL Manual.


What kind of tests will I have to take to obtain my CDL?

You must first take a knowledge test that covers subjects such as vehicle control, inspection, and cargo. Next, you'll take a road test and pre-trip inspection, which are offered together in order to evaluate your ability to drive safely. You must provide your own vehicle for these tests. Finally, you'll take a basic control skills test to evaluate your basic vehicle control skills.

You will be required to take additional tests for a hazmat endorsement. Additionally, you'll need a hazmat background check. This is done through the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), though you get fingerprinted locally. Prepare to pay $115.

You must take all tests again if you're trying to get your CDL reinstated after being suspended for at least 1 year.

Refer to our Applying for a New CDL section for details about endorsement testing.


How much will it cost to upgrade my license class?

Whether you're going from a class B or C to an A, or from a class C to a B, the basic fee will be $88. This includes the fees for the application, permit, and license any tests will be extra. CDL holders who have or want a REAL ID or have endorsements will pay additional fees.


What are the CDL restrictions?

  • L - Vehicles not equipped w/air brakes.
  • K - Intrastate driving only.
  • M - Except Class A bus.
  • N - Except Class A and B bus.
  • O - Vehicles other than tractor trailer.
  • Z - Hydraulic over air brake (CDL license only).
  • V - Variance.
  • W - Farm restricted service.
  • X - No Cargo in tank vehicle (CDL permit only)
  • E - Auto transmission CMV only.
  • P - No Passengers in bus (CDL permit only).

How much will it cost to add endorsements and drop restrictions?

Fees to add an endorsement or remove restrictions vary depending on the type of CDL (Standard or REAL ID) and type of endorsement or restriction. To find out what your specific fees will be contact the Division of Driver Licensing at (502) 564-1257.


    Can I have multiple licenses?

    No, and if you try you risk being fined $5,000 and/or going to jail. The Commercial Driver License Information System (CDLIS) prevents drivers from obtaining multiple and fraudulent licenses.

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

    When you're convicted of any traffic violation (except for a parking violation), you are required to notify both your employer within 30 days of the conviction. If you are convicted outside your licensing state you must report the conviction to the Transportation Cabinet's Division of Driver Licensing with 30 days.


    I work for a livestock feeder. Are there special CDLs for people like me?

    Of sorts. There is a restricted CDL available for people who work in farm-related services. This includes farm retail outlets and suppliers, agrochemical businesses, custom harvesters, and livestock feeders such as yourself.

    During a period of 12 months, you can hold this license for 60, 120, or 180 days, and it's only legal within 150 miles of the land on which you're working. Contact your local Circuit Court Clerk's office for more details.


    Can I get a medical waiver?

    Perhaps. To apply for a medical waiver, contact your local Circuit Court Clerk's office or the Division of Driver Licensing office in Frankfort. You'll need to request a medical waiver packet. The decision as to whether or not you receive the waiver will be based on the request form (included in the packet), your physical, and your driving history.

    If you're granted the waiver, you'll be required to submit to medical updates periodically. You'll be sent the update forms in the mail and will have 45 days to complete and send them back to the Division of Driver Licensing; if you fail to do so, your medical waiver and commercial driving privileges will be canceled until the Division of Driver Licensing receives the information.

    See the KY CDL Safety Laws page for more information about the medical waiver.


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

    It sure can. The following violations could result in suspension:

    24 hours

    • Driving a commercial vehicle with any amount of alcohol or other drug in your system.

    60 days

    • Obtaining 2 serious offenses in 3 years.
    • Providing incorrect information in order to obtain an original or duplicate CDL or permit.

    180 days

    • Driving a commercial vehicle while out of service.

    120 days

    • 3 serious offenses in 3 years.

    1 year

    • 1st conviction of driving with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.04% or greater, or under the influence of another drug
    • 1st conviction of leaving a traffic accident scene
    • 1st conviction of using the commercial vehicle in commission of a felony
    • 1st conviction of refusing to submit to blood, urine, or breath testing

    3 years

    • Committing any of the above suspension violations while carrying hazardous materials

    Life

    • 2nd conviction of any of the above suspension violations.
    • 1st conviction of using the CMV in the commission of a felony involving manufacturing, distributing, or dispensing a controlled substance.

    What is this "hot file" check I keep hearing about?

    All CDL holders are required to go through a "hot file" check in order to determine whether the CDL applicant or holder has any outstanding warrants. The fee is $3 and the check won't delay the application or renewal process as it is immediate. Read up on the details.


    Are there any forms available online besides the CDL and hazmat applications?

    Yes. The Kentucky Division of Driver Licensing provides several applications and forms online, and they can be viewed as E-forms (downloadable to your hard drive) or I-forms (for viewing online only). For more information about these form types, as well as a number of the forms themselves, visit the Forms Library.

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