How Long Does It Take to Get A CDL in Michigan: A Completed Timeline

“How long does it take to get a CDL in Michigan?” is one of the most common questions when a person in Michigan starts exploring a commercial driving career. To drive any commercial vehicle in Michigan, ranging from big trucks to passenger buses, the driver has to obtain a Commercial Driver’s License. About 6-10 weeks is the average time, though it may change based on your preparation, the class of CDL you are seeking, and the training you sign up for. From this article, you will get to understand how the whole process will take and what is involved in the process. A proper preparation with a clear timeline will get you going on your CDL and start professional driving in Michigan.

How long does it take to get a CDL in Michigan?

On average, it takes approximately 6-10 weeks to get a CDL in Michigan. This length of time will vary depending on the class of CDL you want, the type of training program you decide upon, and how quickly you can pass all the necessary tests. Below, a step-by-step breakdown is given.

Choose your CDL Class and endorsements

First things first, decide which CDL class and endorsements you’ll need, depending on the type of commercial vehicle you will be driving and your career goals. This decision will affect what type of training you receive and what type of tests you will take, so it’s important that you choose correctly.

Understanding CDL Classes

There are three basic classes of CDL in Michigan, each allowing for different vehicle types:

• Class A CDL: This license class is for combination vehicles, including tractor-trailers, with a weight of over 26,001 pounds; the towing vehicle must weigh over 10,000 pounds. Ideal for long-haul truck drivers and those trucking goods across states.
• Class B CDL: For all single vehicles weighing over 26,001 pounds, such as buses, dump trucks, and delivery trucks. This class would apply further to the regional or local driving job.
• Class C CDL: Required for vehicles that are designed to carry 16 or more passengers, such as small buses, or for the transportation of hazardous materials. Most school bus drivers or HazMat operators would go into this class.

Choosing the right endorsements

Aside from selecting the right CDL class, you might want to consider endorsements that are necessary for a particular class of commercial driving careers. This requires additional testing but offers more job opportunities. Common endorsements include:

• T endorsement – Double/Triple trailers.
• P endorsement – Passenger.
• H endorsement – Hazardous materials.
• X endorsement – Tank and hazMat.
• N endorsement – Tank vehicle.
• S endorsement – School bus.

Time estimate: It may take 1-2 days to research and decide on your CDL class and endorsements.

Tips: When it comes to your decision, consider your career goals. If you want to be a long-haul truck driver, for instance, a Class A CDL may be necessary with endorsements such as HazMat (H) or Tanker (N).

Prepare required documents

Preparing the necessary documents is essential for acquiring a CDL in Michigan. This means having everything ready in advance, and the application process moves smoothly without any unwanted delays in the process. Below, a breakdown of the required documents and their importance can be found in detail.

List of required documents:

1. Valid Michigan driver’s license: A current, non-expired driver’s license is required.
2. Proof of U.S. citizenship or legal presence: A valid passport, a birth certificate, or a green card will do.
3. Social Security Number: You will be required to provide your SSN for identity verification purposes and to comply with federal requirements.
4. Proof of Michigan residency: Examples of acceptable proofs include utility bills, rental agreements, or mortgage statements with your name and address.
5. Medical certificate DOT physical: You will need a valid DOT medical certificate from an FMCSA-approved provider showing that you are physically qualified to operate a commercial motor vehicle.

Time estimate: It would take 1-2 weeks if the documents are available; this will be longer if you have to request replacements, for example, a new birth certificate or Social Security card.

Tips: Make sure the dates on all your documents are current. Expired documents can slow down your process; Keep all documents for personal records, and in case they are ever needed again during the process. Double-check with Michigan CDL requirements so as not to leave anything out.

Obtain a Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP)

With the CLP, you get to practice driving commercial vehicles under supervision. To get the CLP, you must accomplish the required knowledge test and specific essentials.

Steps to obtain Michigan CLP:

• Meet the eligibility criteria: For intrastate operation in Michigan, you must have a minimum age of at least 18 years to apply for a CLP. In the case of interstate or transportation of hazardous materials, you have to be at least 21 years old.
• Study for the knowledge test: The knowledge test measures your familiarity with safety procedures and operating rules for commercial vehicles. Some subjects include vehicle inspection, driving techniques, and state laws.

Take the Michigan CDL practice test now!

• Apply in person at the Michigan Secretary of State Office: You will be required to bring along your proof of identity, Michigan residency, and medical certificate as you present your application for a CLP.
• Take the knowledge test: The test usually comprises multiple-choice questions regarding topics in the Michigan CDL manual. Be adequately prepared for the test to pass with one attempt.
• Application fee: Michigan has a fee associated with the CLP application. Bring cash in that exact amount or check on acceptable forms of payment beforehand.

Time estimate: Allow yourself about 2-3 weeks to study and schedule your knowledge test. The mandatory holding period is at least 14 days.

Tip: Take online practice tests or quizzes to identify any weaknesses in your knowledge. Then schedule your appointment early to avoid delays, especially during busy seasons.

Complete CDL training

The most important step in the CDL licensing procedure is surely completing the CDL training. The knowledge and hands-on skills for the passage of the CDL skills test, and safe operations of commercial vehicles, are taught in these programs. In addition, most CDL applicants are now required to have federal regulations on entry-level driver training.

• The Entry Level Driver Training is an imprint that has been prescribed by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration.
• This applies to first-time applicants for CDL, drivers upgrading to a higher CDL class (e.g., Class B to Class A), and Drivers applying for specific endorsements, which include but are not limited to HazMat, Passenger, and School Bus.
• The ELDT includes class instruction, behind-the-wheel training, and advanced training.
• The training must be completed through an FMCSA-approved training provider prior to taking the CDL skills test.

Time estimate: In Michigan, CDL training for all types takes around 3-6 weeks, depending on the availability of full- or part-time.

Tips: Select a program that incorporates flexible schedules if you have work or other commitments to balance. The more practice you can get behind the wheel, the more confident and skilled you’ll become.

Pass the CDL skills test

3 parts are involved in:

• Pre-trip vehicle inspection: You will be required to show that you can inspect a commercial vehicle to identify safety problems.
• Basic vehicle control: This section will test your ability to control the vehicle for different maneuvers.
• On-road driving: An applicant drives on public roads under the supervision of a qualified examiner.

A driver must hold a Commercial Learner’s Permit for at least 14 days before entering the test. Vehicle operating practice is essential. However, starting with a knowledge base can help you first become familiar with your CMV.

Take the Michigan CDL Pre-trip inspection practice test now!

Time estimate: While the skills test itself will take 2-3 hours to complete, the whole process consists of scheduling and preparing for the test may take 1-2 weeks.

Obtain a physical CDL

The last step in the process is obtaining your physical Commercial Driver’s License after successfully passing the CDL skills test. Submitting your documentation, paying fees and then receiving your official CDL in hand from the Michigan Secretary of State.

The in-person application generally requires between 1-3 days, while the actual card may take as long as 2 weeks to arrive.

FAQs

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

On average, getting a CDL Class A in Michigan takes 6 to 10 weeks, considering your preparation, training, and scheduling.

• Research and document preparation: 1-2 weeks.
• Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP): This requires studying for and passing the knowledge test, which takes about 1-2 weeks, plus a compulsory 14-day holding period prior to the skills test.
• CDL Training: Most Class A CDL training programs last between 3-6 weeks.
• Scheduling, testing, and getting your physical CDL takes an additional 1-2 weeks for the CDL skills test and license application.

2. How long is CDL school in Michigan?

Most of the CDL school programs available in Michigan run for 3 to 6 weeks, depending on the student’s enrollment status.

• Full-time programs: They usually take about 3-4 weeks when classes and practicals, including behind-the-wheel, are taken regularly.
• Part-time programs: 6-8 weeks or longer; flexible schedule for those who are either working or have other commitments.

Final thoughts

Getting a CDL in Michigan is a rewarding process that may take up to 6 to 10 weeks. From choosing a CDL class to completing the required ELDT-compliant training, passing the skills test, and getting your physical CDL, each step helps in building a successful career in the commercial driving industry. With dedication and the right preparation, you will be on the road in no time with your Commercial Driver’s License. Got the answer for how long does it take to get a CDL in Michigan? Make your plan and hit the gas on your career right now!