California Commercial Drivers License
To have a California driver’s license, you will need to provide some documents and pass a written and road test. The state however, does not require you to have this license unless you will have your permanent residence in the state or will utilize the services of the state which are not granted for non-residents. Having a valid commercial driver’s license from another state will serve as a valid license if you plan to work in this state.
The first step to getting your license is to visit the online website of the California DMV and schedule a written exam. You can download the application form online and then submit the original filled out form at the nearest DMV office. You will be required to provide your thumb print, Social Security Card or number, and present your full name. You do not have to bring a photo with you as the office will take your photo in their office. You will be tested for your visual acuity and you need to provide a valid medical certificate before taking the test.
The written test has about 36 questions that you will have to pass in order to qualify for the road test. It covers a wide range of subjects ranging from traffic rules and signage to understanding the legal aspects of driving. You can have the test in either a written or audio method depending on your needs. Once you pass this exam, you will be given a CDL permit if it is your first time to apply for a CDL. It is valid for at least 6 months, within which you will be allowed to take the road test. You should study the California CDL Manual in order to pass the written and road test of the state.
Passing the road or driving test is important to getting a California commercial driver’s license. You may be able to pass the written test quite easily, but it is the actual driving which is a bit hard to perform. You will be accompanied by the testing official inside the vehicle which you need to supply when you take this test. You will be tested on pre-trip inspection, vehicle maneuvering in different types of traffic conditions, and driving skills. You should also know how to perform emergency and safety procedures. You should supply proofs of vehicle insurance, financial responsibility, and schedule of appointment when you proceed to the testing center.
You need to be at least 18 years old when applying for a California commercial driver’s license if you are planning to drive within the state and 21 years old if interstate. You can have an interpreter or a sign language interpreter if you need them. The state will issue a temporary permit after you pass the driving test since your CDL will be released only after 90 days. The driving and written tests have separate fees that you will have to pay at the California DMV and you will have to pay for them one at a time.
Visit this page to find the truck driving schools in CA if you would like to train to get the skills needed to pass the exams. You can also learn more about the current requirements of a California Commercial Motor Vehicle License by visiting this link: https://www.dmv.ca.gov/commercial/commercial.htm