CDL in Massachusetts
To get a CDL or commercial driver’s license in Massachusetts, you will have to comply with several requirements first including your age. You also have to be physically and mentally fit in order to apply for a commercial license. Truck driving is one of the types of jobs in the Unites States which allows great flexibility and great income opportunities even for the recent workers. It is therefore an attractive option for those who can wants this type of work setup.
The first requirement that you need to pass in order to get a CDL is the age requirement. The minimum age allowed is 18 years old, for those who will be driving intrastate, and 21 years old for those who will be driving interstate. You should be at least at these ages during the time of the application in order to be eligible. Aside from this, you also have to comply with other state and federal requirements as well. They include a current driver’s license and a clean driving record. You should not possess any driving convictions for serious traffic offenses or for some serious crimes. You also have to be mentally stable and capable of handling the job.
The next thing that you have to comply with is the written exam. It covers general information about driving skills and road signs. You have to pass this test in order to obtain the temporary CDL permit that you will use to practice actual driving. To apply for the test, you have to submit a DOT medical form filled out by a DOT approved medical professional, a visual exam, birth certificate, ID showing photo and signature, social security card or number, current driver’s license, and you also have to pay for the test fees.
Once you pass this test, you will be issued a truck driving permit which is valid for two years. During this period, you will be allowed to drive a commercial vehicle provided that you are with an individual with a truck driver’s license. You will then be able to practice driving so make the most out of it. Learn the basic skills of maneuvering the car in various traffic conditions and terrains in order to prepare well for the actual road test. You have to schedule your exam prior to the road test by visiting your local RMV. The application should be submitted before the permit expires.
Once you are ready for the actual test, schedule your exam and pay the corresponding fees. The evaluator will then take you on three stages of the exam namely: pre-trip inspection, basic driving skills, and road test. You need to pass all of these tests successfully in order to gain a CDL in Massachusetts. It will be valid for a few years and you will need to renew it before the expiration date. The medical certification on the other hand, will need to be renewed every two years as required by federal laws. Acquiring a commercial driving license can take months but it will be worth it in the end when you get that high paying job.
On this page you can find a directory of all of the current truck driving schools in MA providing training to help pass the exams.
Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles
Telephone Center: 857-368-8000 for Massachusetts area codes 339/617/781/857
From outside of Massachusetts: 800-858-3926
Phone Center is open M-F from 9:00 AM until 5:00 PM except holidays.
Website: MA Registry of Motor Vehicles
MA Commercial Driver’s License Manual