Massachusetts · RMV

How to get your CDL permit in Massachusetts

In Massachusetts you apply for your CLP through myRMV, then pass your knowledge tests at an RMV office for a $30 application fee. Your permit lasts 180 days and can be renewed once for free.

Last checked September 26, 2026 against official RMV sources

Start the free Massachusetts permit classroom Official Massachusetts CDL manual

Minimum age: 18 (in-state only) · 21 to cross state lines
Permit fee: $30
Permit valid for: 180 days, renewable once for free
Wait before road test: 14 days
Knowledge test language: English + 2 other languages
Passing score: 80%

Step by step

1Hold a valid Massachusetts Class D license and give up any out-of-state license.
2Clear any unpaid fines or other state obligations with the RMV.
3Complete your CDL self-certification online through myRMV or on the RMV form.
4Start your CLP application online through myRMV and book an RMV appointment.
5Bring your ID, lawful presence and residency documents and pay the $30 fee.
6Pass the General Knowledge test plus any class and endorsement tests you need.
7Hold your CLP at least 14 days and finish ELDT with a registered provider.
8Call the State Police scheduling line at (857) 368-7381 to book your road test.

What to bring

Your valid Massachusetts Class D driver's license
Proof of lawful presence in the U.S. from the RMV ID requirements checklist
Proof of Massachusetts residency from the same checklist
Your Social Security number
Payment for the $30 application plus any endorsement fees

Medical card

You self-certify your type of driving online through myRMV or with the RMV form. For interstate driving, your medical examiner sends your results electronically through the National Registry, and the RMV no longer takes paper copies. Intrastate-only drivers may use a paper card if it can't be verified on the Registry.

Fees

Commercial learner's permit applicationCovers your knowledge tests.	$30
Endorsement added with your CLP applicationSame transaction as the CLP.	$10 each
Endorsement added after your CLP is issuedIf added on a different day.	$30
CLP renewal (first time)One free 180-day renewal. After that you retest and pay again.	$0
CDL road test	$35

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

The tests you'll take

General Knowledge (everyone) — 50 questions, 40 correct to pass
Air Brakes (if your truck has air brakes)
Combination Vehicles (Class A)
Tank, Passenger, Doubles/Triples, School Bus (20 questions each, if you want them)
HazMat (30 questions, if you want it)

Testing in Massachusetts

Start your application on myRMV, then take your knowledge tests at an RMV office by appointment.
You get 60 minutes for the General Knowledge test.
Road tests are given by the Massachusetts State Police and booked by phone only.
On road test day, bring your CLP, medical card or waiver, road test application and self-certification form.
You can take no more than 6 CDL skills tests in a 12-month period.

Study for these tests in the Massachusetts classroom

Good to know in Massachusetts

Knowledge tests are offered in English, Spanish and Portuguese.
Add endorsements the same day you apply to pay $10 each instead of $30.
You must renew within 30 days of your CLP expiring to use the free renewal.
You need to keep a valid Class D license the whole time you hold the permit.

Non-domiciled applicants

Massachusetts follows the 2026 federal rule: only H-2A, H-2B and E-2 visa holders qualify, with an unexpired passport and I-94. Work permits (EADs) are no longer accepted, and all transactions are in person.

Confirm with RMV before you go

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

The CDL license issuance fee — confirm with the RMV before you go.
How long you must wait to retake a failed knowledge test — ask the RMV.
The vision standard for the CDL — ask the RMV.
How many residency documents you need — check the RMV ID requirements checklist.

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 Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles. Rules and fees change, so always check with RMV before you apply.