Everything About How To Get A CDL License In Colorado

Are you dreaming of a career in Colorado commercial trucking? Learn how to get a CDL license in Colorado to make your dream a reality! You will have to go through several steps, from meeting the eligibility criteria to completing each application process. Don’t be overwhelmed as we have got you covered. This article breaks down everything you need to know to successfully get behind the wheel and hit the road in Colorado. Dive in and take the first step towards your Colorado’s highway today!

What are Colorado CDL requirements?

Before hitting the road as a licensed commercial driver in Colorado, you need to satisfy certain qualifications, including age restrictions, documentation, training, testing, and fees. Below is the breakdown of what you need to prepare:

• Age restrictions:
  • You must be at least 18 years old for intrastate commercial driving within Colorado.
  • You must be at least 21 years old to drive interstate or transport hazardous materials.
• Driver’s license: Have a valid driver’s license issued by Colorado or another state.
• Documentation:
  • Provide proof of U.S. citizenship or lawful residency with the same name and date of birth on all documents.
  • Provide official proof of your Colorado residency.
  • Provide physical proof of the document with your Social Security Number (SSN) to verify.
• Driving record: Keep your driving record clean from disqualifying incidents or violations.
• TSA background check: Apply with a current TSA background check if applying for a CDL with a hazardous materials endorsement.
• Medical certificate:
  • Undergo a physical exam with a certified medical professional.
  • Get and carry a valid Medical Examiner’s Certificate (MEC).
• Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP): Obtain a CLP for the applicable CDL class and endorsements at least 14 days before taking your CDL skills test.
• Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT): Complete an ELDT program from an FMCSA-approved training provider.
• CDL skills test: Pass all parts of the CDL skills test.
• Fees: Pay applicable fees based on Colorado state regulations.

For more information, read our comprehensive guide on Colorado CDL requirements.

How to get a CDL license in Colorado

Below is a step-by-step guide on how to apply for a CDL in Colorado with ease.

Step 1. Start at the Colorado DMV

Your journey begins with your local Colorado DMV. Before you go, make sure you meet all the qualifications to get a CDL in Colorado and have all the necessary documents, including proof of identity, residency, and a clean driving record.

Step 2. Self-certify your CDL class and driving category

Determine what class of CDL you will need based on your career plans:

• Class A: To operate any combination of vehicles.
• Class B: For large single vehicles.
• Class C: For small vehicles transporting passengers or hazardous materials.

In Colorado, you will also be required to provide a self-certification form showing the type of operation you intend to use your license for:

• Non-excepted interstate: For unrestricted interstate driving.
• Non-excepted intrastate: For unrestricted intrastate driving within Colorado.
• Excepted interstate: For interstate operations specifically excepted from federal medical certification requirements.
• Excepted intrastate: For exempt intrastate operations within Colorado.

Non-excepted driving operations will open more career opportunities.

Step 4. Pass knowledge tests and get a CLP

To obtain your CLP, you will be required to obtain one or more written knowledge tests. These tests are on the CDL regulations, vehicle operation, and safety procedures.

General knowledge test

All CDL applicants must take this test to show their general knowledge in areas such as:

• Safe driving practices: Handling emergencies, adverse weather, and accident prevention.
• Vehicle inspections: Inspecting brakes, lights, tires, and other components.
• Cargo safety: How to load and secure cargo to prevent shifting.
• Traffic laws: Colorado laws and restrictions involving commercial vehicles.

The test has 50 multiple-choice questions and requires an individual to pass at an 80% level or 40 correct answers.

Take Colorado CDL general knowledge practice tests

Endorsement tests

If you want to add endorsements to your CDL, you will need to take extra written tests for each endorsement:

Air brake system test

This test is required if your vehicle has air brakes. It includes:

• Knowing the parts of the air brake system and how it works.
• Proper use of air brakes in emergencies or on grades.
• Troubleshooting air brake failures.

This test includes 25 questions, and a passing grade of 80% corresponds to 20 correct answers.

Take Colorado CDL air brakes practice tests

Combination vehicles test

For Class A CDL applicants, this test will measure your knowledge about the operation of combination vehicles, such as tractor-trailers. This includes:

• How to avoid rollovers and jackknifing.
• Coupling and uncoupling procedures.

There are 20 questions on this test, and you must correctly answer at least 16 (80%) to pass.

Take Colorado CDL combination vehicles practice tests

Once you pass the required tests, you will be issued your CLP. Note that Colorado CLPs are valid for one year and no renewal is allowed, so you should utilize the given time to your full advantage to prepare for the CDL skills test.

Step 5. Complete ELDT program

Federal regulations require the ELDT program for the following:

• New applicants for class A or class B licenses
• Class B to Class A upgraders
• Applicants of hazardous materials endorsements.

The training includes classroom instruction of regulations and safety practices, plus behind-the-wheel training with a qualified instructor.

Step 6. Pass the CDL skills test and obtain your license

You will be demonstrating how to operate a commercial vehicle through three critical parts:

Pre-trip inspection

Make an inspection and describe the condition of these key vehicle components, including but not limited to:

• Brakes, tires, and lights.
• Emergency equipment, including fire extinguishers and warning triangles.

Basic vehicle control

Demonstrate the ability to control a vehicle, including:

• Straight-line backing.
• Offset backing.
• Parallel parking.

On-the-road driving

Drive safely and confidently in real traffic conditions including:

• Highway driving and lane changes.
• Intersections and turns.

After passing the skills test, visit the Colorado DMV with your test results and all the required documents. Pay the fees and get your physical CDL license. Now, you are licensed to begin your commercial driving career in Colorado!

FAQs

1. How much does it cost to get a CDL license in Colorado?

In Colorado, the cost of a CDL license ranges from $4,000 to $8,000, covering tuition for the ELDT program, fees for knowledge and skills testing, and other related expenses such as endorsements or license insurance. The cost varies depending on your chosen training provider, specific CDL class, or endorsements you pursue.

2. How long does it take to get a CDL in Colorado?

The amount of time to obtain a CDL in Colorado is typically between 4 to 8 weeks or more. This depends on the training schedule, how quickly you can pass the required testing, and the availability of testing center appointments.

3. How to get a CDL permit in Colorado?

Get your CLP in Colorado with a straightforward process below:

• Fulfill age requirements: Must be at least 18 years old to drive within states and 21 years old if driving out-of-state or carrying hazardous materials.
• Prepare required documentation, including a government-issued picture ID, an SSN record, proof of residency, a Colorado address, and a clean DMV driving history.
• Self-certify your driving category
• Undergo medical exam: You will be required to provide a valid MEC,
• Pass knowledge tests: You must pass the general knowledge test and additional tests if you desire endorsements such as air brakes or hazardous materials.
• Go to a Colorado DMV office: Bring your documents, test results, and the fee for the CLP.

Your CLP will be valid for one year and you must hold it for at least 14 days before taking the CDL skills test.

4. How to get a class A CDL license in Colorado?

To obtain a Class A CDL in Colorado, follow these steps:

• Meet the eligibility requirements: Fulfill requirements about age restrictions and documentation listed above.
• Obtain a CLP: You must pass at least the general knowledge test, and the combination vehicles test, besides meeting all the document and medical requirements.
• Take and complete the ELDT program through an FMCSA-approved provider.
• Practice driving: Use your CLP to practice driving Class A vehicles with a qualified driver.
• Pass the three parts of the CDL skills test for Class A.
• Obtain your CDL: Return to the DMV with your skills test results, CLP, and any other required documentation. Pay all the fees for getting your Class A CDL.

You can now drive a combination of vehicles that weigh 26,001 pounds or more with a towed unit weighing more than 10,000 pounds.

Final thought

Learning how to get a CDL license in Colorado is one of the first crucial steps to becoming a successful and well-paid driver. Even though it involves several requirements, training, and testing, the opportunities it opens up are worth the effort. With the right guidance, reliable resources, and appropriate preparation for each step, you will increase your chances of success. Do not forget to utilize free online practice tests by CDL Prep for stress-free and effective test preparation. Good luck on your journey!