Acquiring a Commercial Driver’s License is a major step towards qualifying as a professional driver in Arkansas. However, every applicant must meet Arkansas-specific requirements to ensure that drivers are qualified, trained, and fit for the responsibility of operating large vehicles on public roads.
The guide below will outline the step-by-step requirements that you have to fulfill in order to obtain your CDL in Arkansas. We go over requirements from age and medical, to training and the skills test you need, so you may easily find your way through. Now, let’s dive into the details of the requirements for an Arkansas CDL and how you can fulfill them to get your license.
What are the Arkansas CDL requirements?
The requirements for an Arkansas CDL include age, medical exam, training programs, and written and skills testing. Other requirements involve documentation of identity and residency, besides keeping a good driving record. By meeting these requirements, drivers make sure they are competent in the skills and knowledge required to safely operate commercial vehicles on the highway.
Age requirements
The age factor is essential in the qualification for a CDL in Arkansas. You must be at least 18 years old to drive inside the state while for crossing states or carrying hazardous material, you need to have reached a minimum age of 21 years. It is because of federal controls regarding the transportation of goods and passengers across state borders.
Application documentation requirements
Several documents will be needed in the verification process. First of all, you have to submit your documents that:
- Prove your identity: Passport issued by the United States or Arkansas State-issued ID.
- Provide your social security number to show proof of your identity.
- Prove your residency in Arkansas through utility bills, lease agreements, or other official documents with your current address.
- The completion of the CDL application form, accessible from the Arkansas Department of Motor Vehicles.
- Attach a valid Arkansas driver’s license, where applicable, for driving history.
You have smoothened your way to getting a CDL by making sure all the needed documentation is done and submitted correctly, thereby avoiding any delays in processing your application.
Driving record eligibility requirements
According to the Arkansas state, you should have a clean record, with no serious convictions that can keep you from getting a CDL. This calls for not having offenses such as DUI, reckless driving, or major traffic violations within the last three years.
In addition, the licensure must be valid; it should not be suspended, revoked, or disqualified in any case. You will have to get a clearing beforehand in case of a suspension, revocation, or disqualification. Arkansas also reviews your past commercial driving-related infractions, so a Driving Record Check should be given concerning the standards required for determining eligibility for CDL status.
Medical requirements
An applicant must pass a medical exam provided by the DOT, which has to be performed by a medical professional who is FMCSA certified. The following will be tested:
- Vision: You must have in your both eyes a distant visual acuity of at least 20/40 either without or with corrective lenses, to be able to recognize road signs and hazards.
- Hearing: You must be able to hear a forced whisper at a distance of at least 5 feet, or meet other hearing standards established by the examiner.
- Heart health: Conditions like heart disease or problems will require additional testing or medical clearance to get a CDL. If you have had some problems in the past with your heart, then you might be asked to provide medical clearance from your doctor stating that your condition has stabilized and you are fit to drive.
- Blood pressure: Your blood pressure should be within an acceptable limit as by the medical examiner. If too high you may be disqualified until it is controlled.
- Diabetes: You will probably be required to prove that the diabetes is under control with medical evidence and insulin use.
Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) requirements
Before you can get a CDL, you must apply for a Commercial Learner’s Permit – CLP in the state of Arkansas. With the CLP, you will be allowed to practice driving a commercial vehicle in the presence of a licensed CDL holder.
You will have to pass some knowledge tests through the Arkansas DMV. It will contain questions about road signs, traffic laws, and rules for safe driving. You should look at studying the Arkansas CDL manual and take some online practice tests.
Take the Arkansas CDL practice test here!
Once you have passed your knowledge tests, you can apply for the CLP, which is valid for 180 days. You must hold the CLP for at least 14 days before taking the skills tests to get your full CDL.
Training requirements
As stated by Federal requirements, the state shall require each new CDL applicant to complete an approved ELDT program. The goal of this training course is to ensure that you are properly prepared to safely and efficiently operate a commercial motor vehicle.
This must be done through an FMCSA-approved ELDT training provider. In most cases, training will involve both classroom instruction and behind-the-wheel training. It also covers emergency procedures, including looking over the vehicle before driving, which is a major part of the CDL skills tests.
Skills tests requirements
After having undergone the required training and having held your CLP for the required period of time, you will be required to take a series of skills tests that constitute the CDL in Arkansas. These tests are tailored and designed to test your safety and competence in driving a commercial vehicle on the highway or in on-road conditions.
The skills tests consist of three main components: Pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control and on-road test. Before hands-on practice, every driver is recommended to take some online practice tests on the pre-trip section to build the foundation and also be familiar with his/her vehicle.
Take the Arkansas CDL Pre-trip inspection practice test here!
Each section of the skills test receives a separate score, but you will need to get all three sections passed to get your CDL. If you fail any one part of the test, you may need to retake that particular portion at a later date after practice and preparation.
FAQs
1. Is driving school required for CDL in Arkansas?
Yes, the state of Arkansas does require driving school to apply for a CDL. For new CDL applicants, the state requires an ELDT program through an FMCSA-approved training provider. Such training will involve both knowledge and behind-the-wheel training to equip you with the necessary skills and knowledge to safely operate a commercial vehicle.
2. Do I have to do a DOT medical exam for a CDL in Arkansas?
Yes, there is a DOT medical examination for a CDL in Arkansas. To be qualified to operate a commercial vehicle, an applicant should undergo a physical examination by an FMCSA-certified medical examiner. The exam will cover vision, hearing, cardiovascular, blood pressure, and other physical aspects that may affect one’s driving. Applicants are required to submit a valid Medical Examiner’s Certificate as part of their application for a CDL.
Final thoughts
Whether you want to drive within your state or even outside your state lines, your way to becoming a professional driver begins with learning and meeting Arkansas CDL requirements: from age and medical to necessary training, testing, and many more. With these steps followed and comprehensive preparation, you can certainly gain a smooth application guaranteed, setting you up for success in your career as a commercial driver. It’s time to get down to work and take that seat with a ready-to-roll attitude to start your career in this field.
