California · DMV

How to get your CDL permit in California

In California one $100 application fee (Class A or B) covers your CLP, written tests and first skills test for 12 months. On top of federal training, California requires at least 15 hours of behind-the-wheel training.

Last checked September 26, 2026 against official DMV sources

Start the free California permit classroom Official California CDL manual

Minimum age: 18 (in-state only) · 21 to cross state lines
Permit fee: $100 application fee (Class A or B)
Permit valid for: 180 days, renewable once
Wait before road test: 14 days
Knowledge test language: Not published
Passing score: 80%

Step by step

1Be a California resident with a valid driver license.
2Fill out the commercial application (DL 44C) and the self-certification form (DL 694).
3Get a DOT medical exam from a certified examiner.
4Visit the DMV, pay the $100 application fee and pass the General Knowledge test plus any other tests you need.
5Receive your CLP and practice only with a CDL holder of the right class beside you.
6Complete federal ELDT and California's 15 hours of behind-the-wheel training, certified on form DL 1236.
7After 14 days with your CLP, take your skills test.

What to bring

An acceptable identity document with your current name
Two proofs of California residency if you have never held a California license or ID
Completed DL 44C application
Completed DL 694 self-certification form

Medical card

You self-certify interstate or intrastate driving on form DL 694. If you drive interstate, your examiner sends your results to the DMV electronically; intrastate drivers can still turn in a paper medical report dated within two years.

Fees

Class A or B commercial applicationNon-refundable. Covers your written tests and first skills test for 12 months.	$100
Class C commercial application	$59
Skills test retest	$46
Endorsements: Tank, Doubles/Triples, Hazmat	$59 each
Passenger endorsement	$100

Fees change. Confirm the current amount with DMV before you go.

The tests you'll take

General Knowledge (everyone)
Air Brakes (if your truck has air brakes)
Combination Vehicles (Class A)
Endorsement tests if you want them (for example Passenger, School Bus, Tank)

Testing in California

You get three tries at each written test per application. Failing the same test three times voids the application.
You get three skills test attempts per application; retests cost $46.
Skills tests are in English only, with no interpreters.

Study for these tests in the California classroom

Good to know in California

You can renew your CLP once for another 180 days without retesting, as long as it stays within a year of your application.
The 14-day wait also applies when you upgrade your class or add an endorsement.
You must be 21 to haul hazardous materials.
California requires at least 15 hours of behind-the-wheel training on top of federal ELDT.

Non-domiciled applicants

Until further notice, the California DMV is not issuing or renewing non-domiciled commercial licenses. Under federal rules in effect since March 16, 2026, only H-2A, H-2B and E-2 visa holders can qualify.

Confirm with DMV before you go

We couldn't confirm these from official sources, so we left them out rather than guess:

Which languages the written tests are offered in now. Older handbooks listed several, but this may have changed — confirm with the DMV.
Whether you need a Social Security document.
Whether you need an appointment for testing.
The vision standard for a CDL.

Federal rules that apply in every state(show)

Age: You can get a CLP at 18, but until you turn 21 you can only drive a commercial vehicle inside your own state. Hauling hazmat requires you to be 21.
Knowledge tests: Everyone takes General Knowledge. Class A adds Combination Vehicles, and anyone driving a truck with air brakes takes Air Brakes. You need at least 80% on each test.
14-day wait: You must hold your CLP for at least 14 days before you can take the skills (road) test. Some states make you wait longer.
Driving on a CLP: A CDL holder with the right class and endorsements must sit in the front seat whenever you drive. Hazmat is never allowed on a CLP. With a passenger or school bus permit you can't carry passengers, and with a tank permit the tank must be empty.
Entry-Level Driver Training: You must finish ELDT with a provider on FMCSA's Training Provider Registry before your Class A or B skills test. You do not need it to get the permit itself.
Medical card: You self-certify the kind of driving you will do. Most new drivers are 'non-excepted interstate' and need a DOT physical from a certified medical examiner, who now sends the results to your state electronically.
Clearinghouse check: Before issuing a CLP, your state checks FMCSA's Drug & Alcohol Clearinghouse. A 'prohibited' status blocks the permit until return-to-duty is complete.

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Official sources

This page is a study aid, not legal advice, and we are not affiliated with California Department of Motor Vehicles. Rules and fees change, so always check with DMV before you apply.