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Getting your CDL

To get your CDL you must meet the following qualifications:
  • Be at least 18 years old
  • Have a basic New Jersey driver license (Class D)
  • Have 20/40 vision in each eye (with or without glasses)
  • Be able to recognize red, green and amber colors
  • Be physically fit*
* Federal law requires commercial drivers to carry a medical examiner's fitness statement at all times and renew it every two years. Download the Medical Examination Report [60k pdf] before your appointment.


Commercial license and endorsement fee
The cost of the four-year CDL is $42 and $2 for each endorsement. An applicant’s first CDL will be prorated to expire with any current basic license. Applicants without a basic New Jersey passenger driver license (Class D) should factor in the $24 fee for the Class D license.


Commercial licensing fee
The cost of a CDL permit is $125 for knowledge, endorsement, and road tests. The permit fee includes payment for medical form review, background check results and data exchange with Federal driver monitoring systems. Important note: Medical or background check results can lead to commercial license disqualification. Disqualification does not make an applicant eligible for permit fee refund.


Application process
  • Study ahead; read the CDL Manual
  • Visit your local MVC Agency
  • Pass the 6 Point ID Verification; you must present a Social Security card for an initial commercial permit
  • Pay $125 CDL permit fee (non-refundable). For your convenience, MVC Agencies accept American Express® card, MasterCard® card, Visa® card, checks, money orders and cash
  • You will receive your permit, a physical examination form and a fingerprint card from MVC, which will need to be completed
  • Apply for an endorsement
  • Take the CDL knowledge test and the CDL road test (Note: Class C licenses do not require a road test)

Restrictions
CDL applicants under 21 years old may only travel within New Jersey and may not receive HAZMAT or passenger endorsements.


Exemptions
The following do not need a CDL for their purpose:
  • Taxi drivers (carrying less than eight passengers) and ride-sharing van drivers
  • Firefighters
  • Operators of rescue or first-aid squad vehicles
  • Farmers hauling their own products and equipment within 150 miles of their farms
  • Non-civilian operators of military equipment
  • Operators of construction equipment not designed for operation on public roads
  • Operators of recreational vehicles, provided the vehicle is being operated only for personal use

Lost or stolen permits
Visit an MVC Agency to replace a CDL permit: