Everything You Need to Know About How To Get a CDL in Indiana

Are you interested in how to get a CDL in Indiana? You are on the right track to starting a successful career in commercial driving. In getting a Commercial Driver’s License in Indiana, there are specific requirements that are set and that must be achieved, including a number of tests to be taken. Whether it be driving a large truck, bus, or other vehicles of this nature, this guide will help break down everything you need to know. From eligibility, through testing, to frequently asked questions, we’ve got you covered with everything you should know to have your CDL in Indiana successfully.

What are the requirements for CDL in Indiana?

According to the Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles, you must meet these requirements to surely qualify for an Indiana CDL:

• Must be at least 18 years old to drive intrastate and at least 21 years old to drive interstate.
• Valid Indiana driver’s license.
• Be able to document U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent Indiana residence.
• Pass a Department of Transportation medical exam and vision test.
• Have a clean driving record without serious traffic violations.
• Attended and completed Entry Level Driver Training (ELDT).
• Pass the written test to obtain a Commercial Learner’s Permit.
• Pass 3 parts of skill tests.

In our post on requirements for CDL in Indiana, we specify each so you can prepare the best for getting a license, read here.

How to get a CDL in Indiana?

Acquiring a CDL in Indiana includes several tests, most of which start with a written test and may go up to a skills test. The breakdown of how it goes is as follows:

Take the CDL written knowledge test

First and foremost, every candidate has to pass the sections on knowledge for CDL in Indiana. The written test will gauge your cognizance of critical driving rules and secure, on-road operation of your vehicle.

• General knowledge test: This covers some very important aspects pertaining to road safety, traffic rules, do’s, and don’ts with a commercial vehicle. You will have to be quite well-versed in the same to get through this test. Every test-taker has to attend this part, which constitutes 50 multiple-choice questions and they are required to answer 40 questions correctly (80%).
• Endorsement test (if applicable): These range from specific endorsement exams, depending on the vehicle/cargo the driver will be operating, to driving hazardous materials, transporting passengers, or hauling tankers, among other things. Each one of these areas takes extra effort in studying and preparation.

• Air brakes test (if applicable): covers your knowledge of air brake systems used in commercial vehicles. You will be required to answer questions regarding the different parts of air brakes, such as compressors, valves, and tanks, and how they work. You will need to know how to detect problems, conduct a pre-trip inspection, and use emergency procedures.
• Combination vehicles test (if applicable): pertains to the use of combination vehicles, also known as tractor-trailers. Information that falls under this test includes coupling and uncoupling procedures, safety checks regarding the connections, and the driving dynamics peculiar to combined units. Familiarity with the proper maneuvers pertaining to turns and backing up are key to answering the questions on this exam correctly.

After all needed knowledge tests are completed, drivers will receive a Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP), which allows them to practice driving with commercial vehicles on the waiting time for 14 days to take the skills tests.

Take the Indiana CDL practice test right now!

Take the CDL skills tests

The CDL skills tests consist of 3 parts which are split into pieces below:

Pre-trip inspection

You shall be required to inspect your vehicle for safety issues critically prior to taking it on the road. The key components to be inspected shall include:

• Brakes and air system
• Lights and reflectors
• Tires and tire pressure
• Steering and suspension system
• Fluid levels like oil and coolant

You are supposed to identify potential problems and explain how you would handle them. A thorough inspection is critical in passing this portion of the CDL skills test.

Basic vehicle control

The vehicle control section of the CDL skills test will assess your ability to safely operate the truck under various conditions. Examples of the basic vehicle control maneuvers include:

• Back: Reverse in a straight line and around corners.
• Maneuverability: To make wide and tight turns without losing control.
• Parking: To successfully park the vehicle in various designated areas, including parallel and angle parking.

Demonstrating exacting control in the performance of them is necessary if one is to pass this portion of the test.

On-road driving

The on-road driving part of the CDL skills tests will test your ability to drive a commercial vehicle in traffic. Main items to be covered in this section include:

• Traffic Laws: Following speed limits, stop signs, and other traffic laws.
• Lane Changes: This is making a safe lane change and merge by using appropriate signals.
• Handling Intersections: Intersections can be navigated both efficiently and safely.

This is important, as your ability to illustrate driving practices done in safety and awareness of surroundings plays an important role in your successful passing on this part of the test.

Receive the actual license

When you pass the skills test, be prepared to present an Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles office, bringing your documents along with you, such as the CLP and the results of the skills test. You will also have to make this licensing payment on site to get your CDL.

FAQs

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

The overall cost depends on several variables, such as the type of training and class of CDL you are looking to obtain. The permit and license in itself is relatively inexpensive at an estimated $30-$50; however, additional costs may be from any type of training program one may enroll in which can range from $3,000 to $7,000.

Read the details of fees for Indiana CDL through our post here.

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

How long it takes depends on which training program you decide to take. Usually, a full CDL training course and testing takes approximately 4-8 weeks, though the overall length may vary depending on personal schedules and the class license needed.

Explore the detailed timeline to get a CDL in Indiana at our post.

3. How to get a class A CDL in Indiana?

A Class A CDL is an authorization for the operation of large vehicles such as tractor-trailers. You’ll be required to pass the general knowledge test and any endorsement tests if you are carrying special types of cargo or vehicle. You will be later taking the skills test using a Class A vehicle.

4. How to get a CDL permit in Indiana?

In order to get a permit for the CDL, you must pass the written knowledge test. A permit is what allows you to practice driving a commercial vehicle with supervision from a holder of a CDL.

5. How to get a class B CDL in Indiana?

A Class B CDL allows you to drive smaller commercial vehicles, like straight trucks or buses. Just as with the Class A process described above, you would take a written test, then take a skills test in a Class B vehicle.

6. How hard is it to get a CDL in Indiana?

While obtaining a CDL requires time and study, it is quite easier for most individuals who can receive proper training and study materials. Proper preparation on both the written and skills tests will mean higher success.

7. How to get a CDL in Indiana with no money​?

Some companies offer paid CDL training in exchange for an agreement to drive for them following your training. Other than that, there is also financial aid available from certain schools, in addition to federal aid.

8. What disqualifies you from getting a CDL in Indiana?

There are several things that would prevent you from obtaining a CDL. This includes but isn’t limited to:

• 2 DUI or serious traffic offense
• Physical impairment that your driving ability would be impaired
• Use of controlled substances.
• Convictions of specific crimes.

For more information, read here.

9. How do I become a CDL driver in Indiana?

To obtain a CDL in Indiana, follow the process outlined below:

• Meet the eligibility requirements
• Pass the written skills test and obtain your CLP
• Take and pass the skills test
• Obtain your CDL and begin your work

10. Can I get my CDL without going to school in Indiana?

Yes. You can get your CDL without attending a formal school, but for many people, professional training helps to pass both the written and skills tests. Some employers may require or prefer formal training.

11. Can you get a CDL with 2 DUI in Indiana?

No. Having two DUI convictions within the state of Indiana will generally work to bar you from getting a CDL. The state carries with it some pretty harsh penalties, and subsequent DUIs can have long-term effects resulting in lifetime disqualification from having a CDL.

12. Can I get a CDL with a DUI in Indiana?

Yes. You might be able to get a CDL with a single DUI on your record in Indiana, but that depends on how far back the offense has occurred or if certain rehabilitation or legal requirements have been met.

13. Can you get a CDL with 2 DWI in Indiana?

No, you are usually barred from obtaining a CDL in Indiana as the state has lifetime disqualifications for second and subsequent DWI offenses.

14. Can you get a CDL with a felony in Indiana?

It depends; some felonies may render one unable to get a CDL, especially those that relate to drug trafficking or use of a commercial vehicle. Other types of felonies may not disqualify but are likely to reduce their potential in seeking employment in the trucking industry.

Conclusion

Once understanding how to get a CDL in Indiana, it will open you up to a really successful commercial driving experience. Right preparation for the written knowledge and practical skills exams will be helpful not only in passing such, but even more, how to be successful out on the highway. By determination and good preparation, you are ready to hit the road for an exciting journey in the trucking industry. Start now to be a professional driver!