Mastering On How To Get A CDL In Missouri

Looking for a demanded and rewarding career in the Missouri trucking industry? Learning how to get a CDL in Missouri is the crucial step! You will have to take several steps to ensure your capability and eligibility for operating a commercial vehicle, from meeting requirements, and choosing a license and driving type, to training and testing. A lot to go through, but the good news is that you do not have to walk alone. We provide this comprehensive guide to walk you through everything about a Missouri CDL. Whether you are learning the basics or ready to hit the road, your successful journey starts here. Scroll down for more!

What are the Missouri CDL requirements?

You must fulfill the following key requirements to ensure your Missouri CDL:

• Age requirements: You must be at least 18 years old for intrastate driving and 21 years old for interstate driving or transporting hazardous materials.
• Current driver’s license: Hold a valid non-commercial Missouri driver’s license.
• Proof of identity and residency: Provide documents verifying your name, date of birth, lawful permanent in the U.S., and Missouri residency.
• A valid Social Security Number (SSN)
• Clean driving record: A clean driving record that does not have serious violations leading to disqualification.
• Medical examination: Pass a DOT medical exam and get a Medical Examiner’s Certificate (MEC) from an accepted medical provider.
• Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP): Pass written tests to obtain a CLP and possess it no less than continuously for 14 days before the skills test.
• Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) program: Attend and complete an ELDT program from a provider approved by the FMCSA.
• CDL skills test: Pass all three parts of the CDL skills test for your chosen CDL class and endorsement.
• Required fees: Pay all the state and federal required fees.

For more detailed requirements, you can read our post on Missouri CDL requirements.

How to get a CDL in Missouri

Here is a step-by-step guide to getting your CDL in Missouri:

Step 1. Start at the Missouri Department of Revenue (DOR)

Your journey begins at the Missouri Department of Revenue licensing office. Make sure you have qualified and prepare the required papers, such as identification, evidence of Missouri residency, and a driver’s license.

Step 2. Decide on CDL Class and operation type

You must decide on your CDL Class to continue processing. There are three classes for you to choose the one that fits your needs:

• Class A CDL: to drive combination vehicles with a gross combination weight rating over 26,001 lbs, and the vehicle(s) being towed is over 10,000 lbs.
• Class B CDL: to drive a single vehicle over 26,001 lbs, towing less than 10,000 lbs.
• Class C CDL: to drive small vehicles designed to transport 16+ passengers or hazardous materials.

You will have to choose your driving type based on your intended operations:

• Non-excepted interstate: For interstate driving with no exemptions.
• Non-excepted intrastate: For driving in Missouri with no exemptions.
• Excepted interstate: For restricted interstate driving under certain exemptions.
• Excepted intrastate: For restricted in-state driving under certain exemptions.

If you are certified to operate non-excepted driving in Missouri, you must go through a medical examination with a qualified examiner to obtain a Medical Examiner’s Certificate (MEC).

Step 3. Pass the written tests to get a CLP

In Missouri, a CLP is issued when you successfully pass a series of CDL written tests to demonstrate your knowledge of commercial vehicle regulations, safety practices, and operational skills. Specific information about each written test you can encounter is as follows:

General knowledge

This test is necessary for all applicants of a CDL, regardless of the class of license. It tests your knowledge of key areas important to safely operate a commercial vehicle, including:

• Vehicle safety
• Cargo handling
• Traffic laws
• Driver responsibilities

In total 50 multiple-choice questions, you must get 40 correct answers to pass the general knowledge test.

Take Missouri CDL general knowledge tests

Endorsements

Depending on the type of commercial vehicle or cargo you are to handle, you may be required to pass additional tests for endorsement:

Air brakes

This test is necessary in case the vehicle you are going to operate has air brakes. It consists of:

• System components: Components of the air brake system- compressors, tanks, and valves.
• Operation: The proper operation of air brakes, which would include application, release, and emergency braking.
• Troubleshooting: The ability to identify normal operational failures of the air brake system and the proper procedure for safe operation.

Take Missouri CDL air brakes tests

You must get at least 20 out of 25 questions correctly to pass the test.

Combination vehicles

This test is taken by those applying for a Class A CDL to learn how to operate vehicles like tractor-trailers. This section will cover the following aspects:

• Coupling and uncoupling: How to couple and uncouple trailers safely.
• Driving techniques: How to avoid trailer swing and rollover, how to make wide turns, and how to manage tight spaces.
• Inspection: The inspection procedure of connections, brakes, and other critical systems.

Take Missouri CDL combination vehicle tests

Step 4. Complete CDL training

CDL training is required for any first-time applicant for Class A/B CDL and hazardous materials endorsement, or those upgrading the current Class B license to Class A CDL. Training must be obtained from an FMCSA-approved provider, including the following components:

• Theory training: The classroom or online training concerning federal regulations, vehicle safety, and operational procedures.
• Behind-the-wheel training: Driving with a qualified instructor on the public road to learn how to manage and maneuver the vehicle.

Step 5. Pass the skills test and get a physical CDL license

The CDL skills test assesses your ability to handle a commercial vehicle properly and safely. Three different parts are as follows:

• Pre-trip inspection: You must inspect major vehicle parts such as brakes, lights, tires, and fluid levels.
• Basic vehicle control: You must perform maneuver exercises including straight-line backing, offset backing, and parallel parking.
• On-the-road driving: You have to demonstrate how to drive in an actual road setting by driving on a highway, changing lanes, and executing it at stoplights or intersections.

After passing all required testing, bring the test results and required fees to the Missouri DOR. When the process is complete, you can obtain your CDL and be licensed to hit the road in Missouri as a professional commercial trucking driver.

FAQs

1. How long does it take to get a CDL in Missouri?

The time it takes to get a CDL in Missouri is around 6 to 8 weeks, covering time for obtaining CLP, CDL training, and passing the CDL skills test. There are some variations depending on your training program, preparation, and schedules.

To learn more about the time estimation for each step involved and variations, you can check our post on How long it takes to get a CDL in Missouri.

2. How much does it cost to get a CDL in Missouri?

In general, you can expect to pay a total of $4,000 to $12,000, including fees for medical exams, training, permits, testing, license insurance, and more optional costs.

For more detailed costs involved and tips to save your pocket, refer to our post on How much it costs to get a CDL in Missouri.

3. What do you need to get a CDL in Missouri?

To get a CDL in Missouri, you need to fulfill Missouri requirements:

• Age requirements: At least 18 years old for intrastate driving, and 21 years old for interstate driving or special endorsements
• A valid driver’s license
• Proof of identity and residency
• Social Security Number (SSN)
• Medical requirements
• Obtain a CLP
• Complete ELDT program
• Pass the CDL skills test
• Pay fees

Refer to the post above for more detailed requirements.

4. What disqualifies you from getting a CDL in Missouri?

You will be disqualified from getting a CDL if you have specific conditions or violations, including but not limited to:

• Major violations related to DUIs, leaving the scene of accidents, and felony
• Serious traffic violations such as driving too fast or following too closely
• Out-of-service violations
• Railroad highway crossing violations
• Violations in personal vehicles

5. What happens if you get caught driving without a CDL in Missouri?

Driving without a CDL in Missouri is a serious offense. The penalties are:

• Pay the fines according to the federal and state regulations
• Be disqualified from obtaining a CDL for 60 days.

Final thoughts

Understanding how to get a CDL in Missouri is the first step to kickstarting a wealth of opportunities in the Missouri trucking industry. By following the necessary requirements and steps, from applying for your CDL, passing the tests, and completing the training, you will be all set on the right path toward achieving your goals. Start today and turn your dream into reality! Remember, you are not alone in this journey. We are always here to help!