Q: How do I know if I need a CDL license?

A: There is a flow chart on page 14 of the Indiana CDL manual which explains if you need a CDL license. In general, you will need a commercial license if you drive:

a) a vehicle with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 26,001# or more.

b) a truck and trailer with a gross combination weight rating (GCWR) of 26,001# or more, provided the trailer being towed has a GVWR of 10,001# or more.

c) a vehicle designed to carry 16 or more people including the driver.

d) any vehicle required to display placards for hazardous materials.

Q: How do I get a CDL license?

A: Obtain a CDL manual from an Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles license branch or go to the state of Indiana web site at www.in.gov./dor/4213.htm. The steps to follow can be found on pages 2-3.

Q: I used to have a CDL several years ago but I turned it in when I wasn’t driving a truck anymore. How do I get it back?

A: Once your license has been surrendered or expired more than one (1) year or your DOT physical has expired for more than one (1) year then you must start all over by getting a new physical, take the appropriate written tests, and do a skills test.

Q: My vehicle has air brakes but does not have a GVWR of 26,001# or more. Do I need a CDL license?

A: No, not unless the vehicle you are driving is placarded for hazardous materials or is designed to carry 16 or more people, including the driver.

Q: I currently have a CDL license with an air brake "L" restriction. I want to drive vehicles with air brakes now. How do I remove that restriction?

A: You must take the air brake written test at the license branch and obtain a new learners permit. Then you must skills test at a Third Party test site. When you pass then you must return to the license branch to change your license.

Q: Test 6

A: This is test 6

Q: I have my CDL learners permit, what do I do next?

A: Once you have a CDL learner's permit and you are ready for the CDL skills test, you must make an appointment at one of the Third Party skills test sites in Indiana. You may obtain a list of the certified sites from your local BMV license branch. And be sure to study the skills section in the back of your CDL manual and be prepared to pass the CDL pre-trip inspection exam.

To help you prepare for the CDL test, ProSafe CDL recommends the CDL pre-trip inspection study guide from eGears.

Q: How much does a CDL skills test cost?

A: The CDL skills test cost is regulated by the state of Indiana all test fees. If the applicant provides the equipment for the CDL test, the cost is $100.00. If the test site provides the equipment for the test, the cost is $150.00.

Q: I have a CDL license now but want to add an endorsement or upgrade my license. Do I have to take another CDL skills test?

A: On some endorsements (N tank, T doubles/triples, H hazardous materials) you are only required to take written tests at the license branch, complete the proper paperwork, and pay the appropriate fees. But if you are upgrading your license (going from class B to class A for example) or adding the P passenger or S school bus endorsements then you must take the appropriate written tests, obtain a learners permit, and pass a skills test to change your license.