If you obtained a CLP prior to Nov. 13th, you have until Dec. 31 to complete the skills test without the ELDT requirement.
1
Medical Exam
Obtain valid Medical Examiner’s Certificate (MEC)
MEC Requirements
The vast majority of applicants for a Class A, B, or C, Interstate or Intrastate, CDL will be required to have a valid MEC.
You'll need to obtain your certificate and have it with you when you apply. Note that the physical must be performed by a medical professional listed on the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners, per 49 CFR § 391.43. So be sure to ask when you make an appointment for the physical.
2
Written Exam
Pass the CDL written test
Save yourself some time, pre-apply for your license. Filling out required information before your appointment is easy and convenient with our online service.
Written Exam
Commercial driver license (CDL) written tests are given at all driver license stations and require appointments; you can schedule your CDL written test through appointment scheduling.
You will need the following required documents when you arrive for your exam:
If you have a valid Montana Standard Driver License
- Your Montana DL
- Proof of authorized presence
- Valid MEC
If you have a valid Out-of-State Commercial Driver License
- Your valid out-of-state CDL
- Proof of identity
- Proof of Montana residency
- Proof of authorized presence
- Social Security number
- Valid MEC
Passing the written test means you will have your Commercial Learner Permit (CLP).
3
Training
Complete Entry Level Driver Training (ELDT)
Entry Level Driver Training
Effective November 13, 2023
Applicants seeking to:
- Obtain a Class A or Class B CDL for the first time;
- Upgrade an existing Class B CDL to a Class A CDL; or
- Obtain a School Bus (S), Passenger (P), or Hazardous Materials (H) endorsement for the first time
Will be required to complete Entry Level Driver Training (ELDT).
4
Skills Test
Pass the CDL skills test
Skills Test
Once you have your CLP, use the online appointment scheduling to make your appointment for your skills tests, (pre-trip, basic control, and road test). You must have had your CLP for at least 14 days before you can take the skills test.
Each applicant must provide a vehicle in good operating condition, currently registered and insured, for the driving test. The vehicle must be within the vehicle class, which the applicant has applied, be equipped with seatbelts, and have a seat provided for passenger(s). You CANNOT take a CDL skills test in a HAZMAT vehicle.
The Driving Demonstration consists of three steps: a pre-trip vehicle inspection, basic control skills test, and on-road drive test. You must successfully complete each step in this order before moving on to the next. If you fail the first or second steps the test will end, and you will be required to wait at least 24 hours before being able retest. If you successfully complete the first two steps and fail the on-road driving portion, you must wait at least one week before being able to retest. All timelines for retesting are dependent on appointment availability.
**There is also an option for CDL testing through Helena College.