So, we have already given you the details on how to get a driver’s license in Delaware.
But what if you want to get a commercial driver’s license?
Then this article is for you.
Here, we’re going to give you a complete guide on how to get a CDL in Delaware. And as always, we won’t leave out any details.
With this guide, you’ll know everything you need to know — from what CDL class you need to how to go through all the requirements.
Are you ready?
Let’s begin!
CDL Classes in Delaware
If you didn’t know, there are 3 CDL classes in Delaware.
The commercial truck you drive will determine what class you need.
So let’s go over these classes first so you know which one to get:
- Class A CDL – required for a combination vehicle with a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of over 26,000 pounds and tows vehicles that have a GVWR of more than 10,000 pounds
- Class B CDL – required for a single vehicle with a GVWR of more than 26,000 pounds. If towing, the towed vehicle should be less than or equal to 10,000 pounds
- Class C CDL – required for a single or combination of vehicles with a GVWR of less than or equal to 26,000 pounds. Plus, it can only tow a total weight of less than or equal to 10,000 pounds. These vehicles may carry 16 or more people, including the driver, or carry hazardous materials.
So now that you know which class you need, let’s get into the CDL requirements.
CDL Requirements in Delaware
Before you can apply for a CDL in Delaware, you should first satisfy the following requirements:
- Be at least 18 years old with a minimum of 1-year driving experience
- Be at least 21 years old with a minimum of 1-year driving experience if driving interstate commerce or transporting hazardous materials
- Be a Delaware resident
- Should not have a license that has been denied, suspended, disqualified, expired, or revoked
Anyone applying for a CDL also has to get the following medical requirements:
- Valid medical certification from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations
- Filled up Self-Certification Affidavit form
These medical certifications should not be expired when submitted.
So those were the basic requirements. Now, let’s get into the actual steps on how to get a CDL in Delaware.
How Can You Get a CDL in Delaware
To get your Delaware CDL, you need to undergo 2 parts –- the first is to get your Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) and the second is getting the official Commercial Driver’s License (CDL).
Let’s talk about each part in detail.
How to Get Your CLP in Delaware
Just like a learner’s permit, a CLP will allow you to practice driving a Commercial Motor Vehicle (CMV).
And also, just like a learner’s permit, you have to be accompanied by a licensed CDL driver at all times.
Another thing you should know is that you are only allowed to drive the vehicle stated in your CLP license class.
With all that out of the way, let’s look at the steps on how to get your CLP in Delaware:
- Bring your Delaware driver’s license, medical requirements, and proof of residency in Delaware
- Visit the nearest DMV office and submit all the documents
- Fill out the CDL application form and sign it. You can find the form in the DMV office.
- Take a drug test
- Pass the knowledge exam, including all other exams required for your CDL class and/or endorsement
- Get your CLP
Your CLP is valid for 1 year. There are no extensions given.
However, you can already apply for a CDL after 14 days of holding your CLP.
How to Get Your CDL in Delaware
Once you have held your CLP for 14 days and you are ready to take the road test, you can start working towards your official CDL.
Here are the steps to do just that:
- Complete an Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) program from an FMCSA-approved provider.
- Schedule a skills test appointment. You can schedule online or call your DMV office.
- To schedule online, go to the official DMV website, click online services, then road test appointment, make an account, and schedule your road test.
- To schedule through calling, you can ring any of these numbers: Wilmington – (302) 434 3200, Delaware City – (302) 326 5000, Dover – (302) 744 2500, Georgetown – (302) 853 1000
- When in the DMV office, submit your CLP, driver’s license of your accompanying licensed CDL driver, as well as vehicle registration and insurance card for the vehicle you will use
- Pass the road test
- Pay the application fee of $30 if you’re getting a 5-year CDL or $48 if you’re getting an 8-year CDL
And there you have it!
You’ll receive your CDL a few weeks after you pass your road test.
As you can see, Delaware is one of the easiest states to get a CDL.
Delaware CDL Endorsements
Endorsements are required to operate specific commercial vehicles in Delaware. These show that you are qualified to operate such vehicles.
Here is a list of the Delaware CDL endorsements:
- H – Hazardous Material
- X – Hazmat/Tanker
- N – Tanker
- P – Passenger (Class A, B, or C)
- S – School Bus
- T – Double/Triples
- Z – Taxi Cab
Here’s what each endorsement means:
- Hazardous Material (H) – vehicle under Class A, B, or C carrying any hazardous substances under 49 U.S.C 5103
- Hazmat/Tanker (X) – tanks that carry hazardous materials
- Tanker (N) – tanks that are designed to transport liquid or gaseous materials with an individual rated capacity of a least 120 gallons
- Passenger (P) – vehicles that carry 16 or more people, including the driver
- School Bus (S) – vehicles for transporting students. This requires a special skills test.
- Double/Triples (T) – double or triple trailers; Class A CDL holders are qualified for this endorsement
- Taxi Cab (Z) – taxi vehicles
Frequently Asked Questions
Have a question? Let’s answer some of the most frequently asked ones to help you out even more.
How many questions are on the CDL permit test in Delaware?
There are a total of 50 questions in the CDL permit test in Delaware. You have to get at least 40 right to pass the test.
How long does it take to get a CDL in Delaware?
It will only take a few months or less to get a CDL in Delaware. This is because you can already apply for a CDL after 14 days of holding your CLP. Also, there are no ELDT programs required.
That said, you need to make sure that you pass all your knowledge exams and the road test on your first try. If not, then it will take a bit longer.
How much does it cost to get a CDL in Delaware?
The CLP costs $5 and the CDL costs $30 or $48, depending on the length of validity you want to apply for.
So in total, you’ll spend at least $35 or $53. That is already super cheap.
Conclusion
So that was how to get a CDL in Delaware.
If you compare it to other states’ requirements, you’ll see that you have it easy in Delaware.
Still, you need to make sure that you get all the required documents, pass all the tests, and be the best and safest driver out there.
Planning on getting a CDL in Delaware?
Well, now that you know what to do, you can get started right away.
Good luck!