Earning a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) is a significant step towards a professional driving career. The first crucial stage in this journey is obtaining your Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP). To get your CLP, you must successfully pass the cdl learner’s permit test, officially known as the CDL general knowledge exam, along with other tests relevant to the type of commercial vehicle you intend to operate. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about the cdl learner’s permit test to help you prepare and succeed.
Understanding the CDL Learner’s Permit Test
The cdl learner’s permit test is designed to assess your understanding of essential commercial driving knowledge. It’s not just one test, but a series of knowledge exams that may include the general knowledge test and specific endorsement tests. The tests you need to take depend on the class of CDL and the endorsements you require for the type of commercial vehicle you plan to drive.
For instance, if you aim to operate a combination vehicle like a tractor-trailer, you will need to pass the general knowledge test. Furthermore, if you plan to drive specialized vehicles, additional knowledge tests are necessary. Consider these examples:
- Tank Vehicles: Aspiring tank vehicle operators must take both the general knowledge test and a dedicated tank vehicle exam.
- Passenger Buses: If your goal is to drive passenger buses, you’ll be required to pass the general knowledge test and a passenger vehicle exam.
- Vehicles with Air Brakes: Operating vehicles equipped with air brakes mandates passing an additional air brakes exam.
- School Buses: For those intending to drive school buses, the requirements include the general knowledge, school bus, and passenger vehicle exams.
Holding Period and Virginia Requirements for CLP
Once you’ve passed your cdl learner’s permit test and obtained your CLP, it’s important to understand the restrictions and holding period. A CLP allows you to operate a commercial vehicle of the specific class and type indicated on your permit. However, this is permitted only when accompanied by a licensed CDL holder who is authorized to drive the same type of vehicle. This licensed driver must be present in the vehicle with you.
In Virginia, there’s a mandatory holding period before you can take the CDL skills tests. You must hold your commercial learner’s permit for a minimum of 14 days. This waiting period ensures you have adequate time to practice and prepare for the driving skills examination. If you have previously held a CDL or completed a Virginia-approved CDL driver education course, you may be able to waive this 14-day holding period, but you’ll need to provide proof of your prior experience or training.
Out-of-State Commercial Learner’s Permits
If you hold a commercial learner’s permit from another state and are moving to Virginia, it’s important to note that you cannot directly exchange an out-of-state CLP for a Virginia CLP without undergoing testing. You will still need to pass the required knowledge tests in Virginia. However, Virginia does recognize the time you’ve already held your out-of-state CLP. The time you held your out-of-state permit will be credited towards the 14-day holding period requirement in Virginia. This means you won’t have to restart the 14-day period, but you must still meet the holding period requirement before you are eligible to take the CDL skills exams in Virginia.
Preparing thoroughly for your cdl learner’s permit test is the first step towards a successful commercial driving career. Understanding the types of tests required, the holding periods, and specific state regulations will set you on the right path to achieving your CDL.
