Time for getting a CDL: The complete timeline

Do you need a CDL license for your work, but are unsure how long the process takes to fit into your schedule? With so many varying estimated times out there, it can be hard to decide what exact time duration you need. Don’t worry! This post gets you covered. In this post, we provide a detailed explanation of how long it takes to get a CDL and related factors that shorten or extend the needed time. Through this post, you can estimate your timeline for obtaining a CDL. Scroll down for details!

How long does it take to obtain a CDL license?

Generally, getting a CDL can take from 3 to 6 weeks or even several months. Specifically, the estimated time for getting CDL of different Classes is as follows:

• CDL Class A: This is normally taken within 3-6 weeks, including 160 hours of training program. This license is taken for driving combination vehicles with trailers or semis.
• CDL Class B: Requires about 2-6 weeks, including 80 hours of training course. This license would be related to single vehicles, such as buses and big straight trucks.
• CDL Class C: Take approximately 2-6 weeks, including 80 required training hours. This license pertains to driving smaller vehicles when one is carrying hazardous materials or more than 16 passengers.

The duration varies according to your chosen CDL Class, and various factors. [caption id="attachment_4820" align="aligncenter" width="800"] Duration to obtain CDL license[/caption]

What factors affect the time to get a CDL license?

Several factors affect how long it takes to get a CDL license. Specifically:

• Personal knowledge and learning: Some complete the training and test faster if they have experience, while it takes others much longer to fulfill the requirements and practice.

• Type of CDL training: Training duration depends on the type of license or the class of CDL. Class A takes longer due to the complexity of vehicles. Other classes such as Class B and C require less training time, as a result, less time can be taken to get a CDL.

• Classroom time:  There are various formats of CDL training. Full-time students can complete courses after only 3-4 weeks, whereas part-time students may take several months as they have to balance training with other responsibilities.

• Driving hours: This is a certain number of driving hours required to manipulate a commercial vehicle. A few states would have a minimum hour requirement for driving practice. Read our post on how many hours a CDL drivers can drive to learn more!

• Test availability: Scheduling the written (knowledge) test and skills driving test is one of the most important factors in determining when you can obtain a CDL. Possibly long waits for test appointments can extend your timeline in getting a CDL. The timeframe to schedule the reading test varies, depending on the state and demand.

• Passing tests: After training, you must take the road skills test for your CDL. It will take more practice for some individuals, and as a result, increasing the estimated timeline.

• Getting endorsements: Other endorsements, such as HazMat, tanker, or passenger endorsements, take even more study and testing. Therefore, it could be a bit longer to get your CDL license.

• State requirements: Each state determines how many driving hours, how many total hours of training are needed, and even which tests are administered to secure a CDL. Some states expedite this process, while others compose more stringent requirements.

[caption id="attachment_4684" align="aligncenter" width="800"] What factors affect the time to get a CDL license?[/caption]

FAQs

1. How long does it take to get CDL class A?

The process for getting a CDL Class A generally takes 3 to 6 weeks, depending on the training program and your own pace. Some fast-track programs can complete this training in as little as 3 weeks if done full-time.

2. How long does it take to get CDL class B?

CDL Class B training usually takes about 2 to 6 weeks. This duration is a little shorter than the previous category because these vehicles are not that complex to handle compared to those under Class A. The required time for training is about 80 hours.

3. How long does it take to get CDL Class C?

Obtaining a CDL Class C usually takes 2 to 6 weeks. This class is for drivers who drive smaller commercial vehicles such as passenger vans or vehicles transporting hazardous materials. The timeline is shorter since the vehicle requirements are simpler and the training period is shorter.

4. How long does training take to earn a CDL?

CDL training programs can take anywhere from 3-6 weeks to several months, depending on whether you are attending full-time or part-time, your state’s regulation, and the type of license you are pursuing. Full-time programs are normally faster, while part-time or self-paced programs take longer.

5. How much driving practice is needed to pass the CDL?

Different states require different driving hours, but you will typically need to undergo at least 160 hours of training, which includes driving practice. Some states can add practice depending on the CDL license type and endorsements required.

Final thoughts

Knowing the factors affecting the duration spent getting a CDL helps you better schedule your time entering into the commercial driving industry. Check your state’s requirements and select a training program that fits your schedule and needs. If you have any questions, please leave a comment. We are always here to assist you in the process of obtaining a driving license.