Acquiring a Commercial Driver’s License in Massachusetts can indeed be a rewarding milestone to secure a stable and rewarding career in the transport business. Whether it be in driving trucks, buses, or other commercial vehicles, the process of how to get a CDL in Massachusetts requires detailed preparation and fulfillment of requirements presented by the state.
This guide will walk you through everything from understanding the requirements down to passing the written and skills tests. By the end, you will be well-equipped to start your journey as a professional commercial driver. Now, let’s go into details about how to get your CDL in Massachusetts.
What are the requirements for a CDL in Massachusetts?
To apply for a CDL in Massachusetts, you must first meet some eligibility criteria. These ensure that applicants are qualified to drive a commercial vehicle. Here is what you need to qualify:
- Age requirement: You have to be at least 18 years old for intrastate driving (Massachusetts only) and be at least 21 years old to drive across all states.
- Valid driver’s license: A valid Class D driver’s license shall be held for the duration of the commercial permit.
- Acceptable identification: You need to provide adequate proofs of identity, including a valid Social Security number.
- Driving record: Your driving record in any other state should not be under pending obligations or suspension.
- Medical standards: You must meet the minimum DOT medical standards for a commercial driver.
- Commercial Learner’s Permit: You must pass the written knowledge test to obtain a CLP for 14 days before taking skills tests.
- Skill training course: You must enter and successfully complete the Entry-Level Driving Training, an approved-program of FMCSA to be adequate for the skills tests.
- Proof of lawful residence:
- Lawful presence must be demonstrated for at least 12 months.
- The Commercial credential expiration date will be the same as the end-of-stay date.
- Canada and Mexico Residents: Customers from these countries cannot be issued “Non-Domicile” CDLs. To be issued a Massachusetts CDL, they must show permanent lawful presence.
- “Non-Domicile” CDL holders are not eligible for a Hazmat (H) endorsement.
By fulfilling these CDL license Massachusetts requirements, you will certainly be ready to begin the long-drawn-out process of obtaining your CDL and seeking a professional commercial-driving career.
How to get a CDL in Massachusetts
3 steps every applicant must complete are: passing written test, passing skills tests and obtaining the physical CDL. A complete breakdown is as follows:
Take the CDL written knowledge test
The first step is passing the written knowledge test to obtain a CLP. Depending on the CDL Class and endorsements, the applicant will be required to take different tests.
General knowledge test
The general knowledge test is the foundation of the CDL process and thus is required of all applicants. It tests your understanding of the key concepts necessary to safely and effectively operate a commercial vehicle. This test will cover a wide range of topics crucial to commercial driving and make sure you have the theoretical knowledge to deal with challenges on the road.
The test usually has 50 multiple-choice and you will need to achieve a minimum score required by the Massachusetts RMV, usually in the range of 80%.
Following the Massachusetts CDL Manual and taking some practice tests will help you become comfortable with the test format and identify those areas where you will want to study more.
Taking the Massachusetts CDL general knowledge practice test now!
Endorsement test (if applicable)
You will have to take one or more endorsement tests if you want to drive special types of commercial vehicles or transport cargo in a particular way. The endorsement tests check your knowledge and skills in driving a particular type of vehicle with specific requirements.
Each endorsement has its own test requirements, which you can be seen on the table below:
| Endorsement test | Total Questions | Passing score | Practice test |
| Hazardous Materials | 30 | 24 | Massachusetts CDL hazmat practice test |
| Passenger Transport | 20 | 16 | Massachusetts CDL passenger transport practice test |
| Doubles/Triples | 20 | 16 | Massachusetts CDL doubles/triples practice testt |
| School Bus | 20 | 16 | Massachusetts CDL school bus practice test |
| Tank Vehicle | 20 | 16 | Massachusetts CDL tank vehicle test |
Adding endorsements to your CDL opens a wider range of career opportunities and enables you to drive more types of vehicles. Each endorsement represents a higher level of responsibility and expertise in commercial driving, so prepare for them thoroughly.
Air brakes test (if applicable)
The air brakes test is required for those who plan on driving commercial vehicles that are equipped with air brake systems. This test will ensure that you know how air brakes work, the safety precautions, and their maintenance-the important parts of many commercial vehicles. You will be allowed to take the “L” restriction off of your CDL by passing this test, which would otherwise keep you in non-air-brake vehicles.
You will be expected to answer correctly 20 out of 25 multiple-choice questions to pass the test. But by studying thoroughly and grasping the mechanics of how air brakes work, you can be well prepared for passing the test and deal with air-brake-outfitted vehicles safely with confidence.
Take the Massachusetts CDL air brakes practice test right now!
Combination vehicle test (if applicable)
The combination vehicle test is for drivers who will be driving vehicles made up of a tractor and one or more trailers, such as semi-trucks. This test will make sure you know how to handle the special risks and safety concerns of combination vehicles. You will need to take this test to take the “O” restriction off of your CDL, which means you can only drive single-unit vehicles.
There are 20 multiple choice questions on this test and you are required to answer at least 80% correctly to qualify for combination vehicle operation.
Take the Massachusetts CDL combination vehicles practice test!
Take the CDL skills tests
Once you have held your CLP for at least 14 days and practiced driving with a qualified supervisor, you will be able to schedule your CDL skills test. This test includes three critical components:
1. Pre-trip vehicle inspection
The pre-trip vehicle inspection is the first section of the CDL skills tests and one of the most important aspects of ensuring safety and operability in your commercial vehicle. It tests your knowledge to identify and inspect major parts of the vehicle to ensure they are in good working condition before taking the vehicle on the road. This test is crucial in safe driving and prevention of accidents due to faulty equipment.
You will be required to undertake a full inspection of the vehicle, explaining what checks you are making and to what area. The tester will be looking at whether you are thorough, accurate, and have the ability to find out any issues. Taking some online practical tests beforehand is highly recommended.
Take the Massachusetts CDL pre-trip inspection practice test here!
2. Basic vehicle control
The basic vehicle control test is the second part of the CDL skills test and will test your ability to handle a commercial vehicle in different controlled situations. It tests foundational ability for drivers to be able to deal with the size, weight, and particular characteristics of the commercial vehicle. Mastering basic vehicle control is very important to safely drive through tight spaces and challenging environments.
3. On-road driving
The on-road driving test is the final part of the CDL skill test. This test will test how capable you are in safely operating a commercial vehicle in normal traffic. The test has been structured and designed in such a way as to be certain that candidates can accept the challenges brought forth while driving on the public highway, using traffic regulations and keeping the vehicle in control.
Receive the actual license
After passing all the components of the CDL skills test, it’s time for the final step: receiving your Commercial Driver’s License. This now makes you an officially qualified commercial driver and opens up new avenues in terms of career opportunities.
By having your CDL, you are now legally permitted to drive the class of commercial vehicle matching your license class and any endorsement for which you qualified. The license is valid for driving either interstate or intrastate, depending on age and qualifications.
FAQs
How long does it take to get a CDL in Massachusetts?
Getting a CDL in Massachusetts may take a different time depending on your preparation and training schedule. The process usually takes between 4 and 8 weeks while attending a full-time CDL training. For part-time programs or self-paced preparation, it may take longer. Key factors include:
- Study and testing time: Preparing for and passing the written knowledge tests for your Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP).
- CLP holding period: You must have possessed your CLP for at least 14 days before you can do the skills test.
- Skills test scheduling and taking: The availability of testing appointments at your local RMV service center.
2. How much does it cost to get a CDL in Massachusetts?
The total estimated total cost for a Massachusetts ranges anywhere between $4,000 and $9,000 depending on the type of license and training you choose. These fees include: application fee, testing fee, training fee and some more. For more detailed information, click on our post on How much does it cost to get CDL in Massachusetts.
3. What do you need to get a CDL in Massachusetts?
The process of getting a CDL in Massachusetts requires the applicant to pass through certain eligibility criteria and provide specific documents for confirmation:
- Age: Must be 18 years old for intrastate driving or above 21 years old for interstate driving.
- Driver’s license: Must possess a valid Class D driver’s license.
- Proof of lawful presence: Documents such as a US passport, birth certificate, and permanent resident card.
- SSN: Must provide a valid Social Security card.
- Proof of residency in Massachusetts: This may include a utility bill or lease agreement as examples to prove residency.
- Medical certification: Must complete a Department of Transportation (DOT) medical examination and obtain a Medical Examiner’s Certificate.
- Clear driving record: Record should not contain any disqualifications or active suspensions in any state.
- Knowledge test: Pass the knowledge test for CDL, plus any additional tests needed for endorsements.
- Skills tests: Complete the three-part CDL skills testing: pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and on-road driving.
Final thoughts
The whole process of how to get a CDL in Massachusetts is really in-depth and rewarding; it opens a sea of great opportunities within this commercial driving industry. Learning about the requirements and taking some preparation courses for both the written and skills tests will make the process smooth for your application to obtain this license. Be it driving within the state or across state borders, a CDL will give you the required skills and license to operate commercial vehicles safely and professionally. Ready to get started? Begin your preparation today, and take full advantage of Massachusetts CDL training programs as you master every stage of the licensing process.
