To become a commercial driver in Maryland, getting your Commercial Driver's License is pretty straightforward. While the process is rather simple, it consists of various steps, and has essential requirements to ensure that drivers on the wheel are able and qualified enough to drive a commercial vehicle without being a threat or accident hazard on the road. Our guide will explain everything you may want to know about how to get a CDL in Maryland, right from permit to licensure.
What are the Maryland CDL requirements?
According to the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration, you must first meet the minimum physical requirements set forth by the state of Maryland, which are listed below.- Age: You must be at least 18 years old to apply for an intrastate CDL and at least 21 years of age to drive between states.
- Valid driver's license: You must possess a valid non-commercial driver's license (Class D).
- Medical certification: You must provide a valid Medical Examiner's Certificate.
- Proof of citizenship or Maryland legal residency: Please provide a valid U.S. passport, birth certificate, or permanent resident card.
- Clean driving record: A good driving record is required, with no accidents or serious moving violations and DUIs.
- FMCSA approved program: Complete Entry Level Driver Training (ELDT).
- Vision test: 20/40 or better in each eye, not color blind.
- Obtain a CLP - Commercial Learner’s Permit to take skills tests.
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How to get a CDL in Maryland?
Getting a CDL in Maryland involves several steps to test your knowledge and skills in handling commercial vehicles. Let us go through each stage of this process.Take the CDL written knowledge test
Before acquiring the actual CDL, drivers have to pass one or more knowledge tests to acquire a Commercial Learner's Permit. The test covers information that is vital in driving a commercial vehicle and differs in sections based on the type of vehicle one is going to drive and its endorsement.General knowledge test
The General knowledge test is the minimum required for any class of CDL. It covers general knowledge areas such as:- Traffic laws
- Safe driving
- Vehicle inspection
- Accident prevention, among others
- Operation of commercial vehicles.
Endorsement test (if applicable)
In addition to the General knowledge test, there are other test varieties regarding endorsements required by the type of commercial vehicle operated. If you want to drive a tanker, transport passengers, or carry hazardous materials, for example, you will need to take additional tests related to those endorsements. Each endorsement test will test the knowledge and skills you need to handle these types of vehicles or materials safely.| Endorsement test | Total questions | Passing score |
| Hazardous Materials | 30 | 24 |
| Passenger Transport | 20 | 16 |
| Doubles/Triples | 20 | 16 |
| School Bus | 20 | 16 |
| Tank Vehicle | 20 | 16 |
Air brakes test (if applicable)
The air brakes test is a part of the CDL written knowledge test that you must take in case you want to drive a vehicle with air brakes. This test will actually determine how much you really understand about air brake systems:- Components of air brake systems: The components will include the compressor, air tanks, valves, and brake chambers.
- How air brakes work: The insight into the physics that drives air brakes involves how the process of air pressure and release takes place in air brakes.
- Pre-trip inspection procedures: Knowledge of the procedure, how air brakes are inspected for leaks and functioning properly before driving.
- Braking distance and lag: To understand how air brakes affect stopping distance and delay with such brakes.
Combination vehicles test (if applicable)
The test will help you acquire the knowledge necessary to safely operate combination vehicles, such as tractor-trailers. This test is important for drivers wanting a Class A CDL. Some of the critical things that one should be able to get from this test include the following topics:- Load distribution and weight management: Knowledge of load distribution and how to handle the weight safely and within the weight limits.
- Trailer characteristics: Knowledge of the performance of trailers in a variety of driving situations and how trailers react to trailer sway.
- Safety regulations and best practices: Knowledge of the laws and safety practices that pertain to the operation of combination vehicles for the prevention of accidents.
Take the Maryland CDL practice test now!
Take the CDL skill test
You are eligible to take the CDL skills test after you have held your CLP for at least 14 days. This three-part test has been designed to judge your practical driving ability in a commercial vehicle.Pre-trip inspection
You will be asked to make a pre-trip inspection before you begin driving. This will test your knowledge of what to check on your vehicle's safety systems before you start driving, including brakes, lights, tires, and mirrors.Basic vehicle control
In this section, you are to demonstrate basic vehicle control skills: maneuvering, parking, and making turns in a controlled environment.On-road driving
Lastly, the driving test will introduce you to an on-road drive on public roads. You'll be tested on your ability to follow the rules of the road, manage the vehicle in various situations, and perform your driving defensively.Receive the actual license
Once you have passed both the knowledge and skills testing, you will be issued your CDL. You may pick up your new license at your local Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration office. What you will need to bring with you:- Proof of Identity
- Proof of Maryland Residency
- Medical Examiner's Certificate
- Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP)
FAQs
1. How to get class A CDL in Maryland?
To get a class A CDL in Maryland, you will need to first take and pass the general knowledge test and a combination vehicles test, then the skills test. You may also need to take additional testing depending on the vehicle you will be driving, to obtain double/triple trailers, tankers, or hazardous materials endorsements.2. How to get a CDL permit in Maryland?
As part of your application, you will need to pass the written knowledge test. A CLP gives you a great opportunity to start practicing driving a commercial vehicle under the supervision of a qualified CDL holder. It is necessary to hold your CLP for at least 14 consecutive days before you take the CDL skills test.3. How much does it cost to get your CDL in Maryland?
The cost of getting a CDL varies in Maryland. Here is a breakdown:- CDL Permit Fee: $90
- Skills Test Fee: $50 per attempt
- Endorsements, for instance, HazMat: Additional fees might be required. Overall, be prepared to pay roughly $150-$200 for your CDL.
4. How long does it take to get a CDL in Maryland?
The timeline for getting a CDL largely depends on how soon you can undertake the necessary training and actually take the tests. On average, though, it takes anywhere from 4 to 8 weeks, depending on your availability and preparation.5. What are the requirements to get a CDL in Maryland?
The main requirements are listed below:- Be at least 18 for intrastate driving, and 21 for interstate.
- Have a valid Class D driver's license.
- Pass a medical exam and provide proof of U.S. residency or citizenship.
- Have a clean driving record.