No matter where you drive a commercial motor vehicle, you’re going to need a valid commercial driver’s license—also known as a CDL. A CDL certifies that you are capable of safely driving large vehicles, groups of passengers, or even hazardous materials. It’s a huge responsibility, which means there are several requirements you have to meet before receiving the license. These requirements vary from state to state, so it’s important to check up on your state’s specific requirements before beginning the process of obtaining your CDL. To help you find the information you need, here’s our guide on how to get a commercial driver’s license in Indiana.
Why Do You Need a Commercial Driver’s License?
There are three reasons why you might need a CDL in Indiana. If you are driving a commercial vehicle that has a gross vehicle weight rating of over 26,000 pounds, can drive 16 or more passengers including the driver, or carries hazardous materials, you need a CDL. For trucking, hauling, and transport jobs in Indiana, you need a Class A CDL. This allows you to drive any combination of vehicles, such as a truck and trailer, with a gross combination weight rating of 26,000 pounds or more.
Requirements to Get a CDL in Indiana
Before you take the skills test to obtain your CDL, you must meet a few requirements. You must be at least 18 years old to obtain a CDL in Indiana. However, you must be 21 years or older if you plan on driving your commercial vehicle across state lines. Additionally, you need to obtain a learner’s permit before you can take the test for your CDL. To get this learner’s permit, you must pass a written test. Other CDL requirements include a Department of Transportation physical and, of course, a valid operator’s license in the state of Indiana.
How to Get a Commercial Driver’s License in Indiana
Once you have your CDL permit, you’re ready to schedule a skills test at an Indiana CDL test site or a state-approved third-party test site. This skills test is a three-part exam that includes a pre-trip inspection test, a basic controls skill test, and a driving test. Within 30 days of passing the skills test, you can take your certificate to any Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles branch and obtain your commercial driver’s license.
Once you obtain your CDL, you’re ready to hit the road and start making money. You can find trucking and RV transport jobs in Indiana at Starfleet Trucking. Join the fleet today and find out how we can support you and your career as an independent contract truck driver.