A Complete Guide on How To Get A CDL In Nebraska

Pursuing a Nebraska CDL is not just about getting licensed, it is about unlocking a new frontiers toward a promising and in-demand career. However, the long process of earning a CDL makes many aspiring drivers feel overwhelmed. But don’t worry, we got you covered! This post helps you navigate the process with ease, providing everything about how to get a CDL in Nebraska. At the end of this post, you can comprehend all requirements, and steps you should take to CDL success. Ready to shift gears and start your journey? Dive in now!

What are CDL requirements in Nebraska?

Before you can take to the road as an officially licensed commercial driver in Nebraska, you have to meet several requirements related to age, documentation, permit, training, testing, and fees. Here is a breakdown of what you must qualify for:

  • Age requirements:
    • You must be at least 18 years of age for intrastate driving in Nebraska.
    • You must be at least 21 years of age for interstate driving or transporting hazardous materials.
  • Driver’s license: Hold a valid non-commercial driver’s license issued by Nebraska.
  • Proof of identity and residency:
    • Provide proof of identification documents, U.S. citizenship, and lawful status with your name and date of birth consistent in all documents.
    • Provide official documentation of your principal address in Nebraska.
  • Social Security Number (SSN)
  • Driving record: Obtain a clean driving record with no disqualifying incidents.
  • Self-certificate of your driving type.
  • Medical card (if applicable for Class A, interstate, or non-excepted driving): Undergo a physical examination by a certified medical professional and obtain a Medical Examiner’s Certificate (MEC).
  • Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP): Obtain a CLP for your chosen CDL CLass and endorsements and hold it for at least 14 days before scheduling the CDL skills test.
  • Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT): Complete the required ELDT program from an approved training provider before your skills test.
  • CDL skills test: Pass all three parts of the CDL skills test.
  • Application fees: Pay the fees as required by Nebraska state and federal authorities.
What are CDL requirements in Nebraska
What are CDL requirements in Nebraska?

How to get a CDL in Nebraska​

Here is the step-by-step guide to help you navigate your CDL application with ease:

Step 1. Start at the Nebraska DMV

Your journey begins at your nearest Nebraska DMV. Prepare yourself before going by ensuring you are qualified for a Nebraska CDL, and collecting all necessary paperwork as mentioned above.

Step 2. Self-certification of CDL Class and driving category

Self-certification of CDL Class and driving category
Self-certification of CDL Class and driving category

You have to decide which class of CDL will match your job aspirations:

  • Class A – for combination vehicles
  • Class B – for large single vehicles
  • Class C – for small vehicles transporting hazardous materials or passengers.

Nebraska also requires you to submit a self-certification form indicating how you use your license. You can choose from the following four operation categories:

  • Non-excepted interstate: for driving across state lines without any exceptions.
  • Non-excepted intrastate: for driving within Nebraska without any exceptions.
  • Excepted interstate: for interstate exempted activities.
  • Excepted intrastate: for intrastate exempted activities.

Non-excepted operation provides more job opportunities but requires you to obtain an MEC from an approved medical provider.

Step 3. Pass knowledge tests and obtain a CLP

Pass knowledge tests and obtain a CLP
Pass knowledge tests and obtain a CLP

To obtain your CLP in Nebraska, you will be required to take one or several written tests. The tests will cover your understanding of the CDL regulations, how to operate a vehicle, and basic safety procedures. The following is a breakdown of the key tests:

General knowledge test

This test is required for all applicants seeking a CDL and covers the following topics:

  • Safe driving practices: Handling emergencies, driving in adverse weather, and accident prevention.
  • Vehicle inspection: Procedures to inspect brakes, tires, lights, and other important components for roadworthiness.
  • Cargo safety: Proper loading, securing, and distribution of cargo to prevent shifting or damage.
  • Traffic laws: Nebraska-specific laws, speed limits, and weight restrictions for commercial vehicles.

The test consists of 50 multiple-choice questions. To pass, you will need to answer at least 80% (40 correct answers) of the questions correctly.

Specific-endorsement tests

If you are planning to obtain endorsements to drive special vehicles, you have to pass additional exams:

Endorsement test Objectives  Total questions Passing score
Hazardous Materials Federal safety regulations for transporting dangerous materials.   30 24
Passenger Transport Regulations for the safe transportation of passengers in buses. 20 16
Doubles/Triples  Procedure for handling, coupling/uncoupling, and maneuvering double/triple trailers. 20 16
School Bus Regulations for transporting students and emergency procedures in a school bus. 20 16
Tank Vehicle Special concerns for transportation of liquid cargo in vehicles 20 16

Air brakes test

This test is required if your vehicle has air brakes. Topics covered will include:

  • Understanding of air brake system
  • Use of the brake when driving hills and emergencies
  • Air brake failures and the proper response

There are 25 questions on this test. A passing score is 80%, which is 20 correct answers.

Combination vehicles test

Applicants for a Class A CDL will be required to take this test. Topics included in this test are:

  • Safety features related to the operation of tractor-trailers
  • Rollover prevention and jackknifing

You must correctly answer 16 out of 20 questions (80%) to pass.

Take Nebraska CDL practice tests

Step 4. Take the ELDT program

Take the ELDT program
Take the ELDT program

According to the FMCSA regulation from February 2022, you will need to undergo ELDT if you are:

  • A new CDL applicant for a Class A or B license
  • Upgrading from your Class B license to Class A
  • Seeking a hazardous materials endorsement

You are expected to complete both theoretical and practical training from an accredited CDL school:

  • Theoretical training: Regulations, safety protocol, and operational technique classes in the classroom.
  • Behind-the-wheel training: Driving a real vehicle under an FMCSA-certified instructor.

Step 5. Pass the CDL skills test

Pass the CDL skills test
Pass the CDL skills test

You have to show your ability to safely operate a commercial vehicle through three skills test sections:

Pre-trip inspection

This part of the test assesses your competency in identifying and explaining the condition of critical vehicle components, such as:

  • Brakes: Air pressure, leaks, and parking brake functionality.
  • Lights and mirrors: Ensuring they are clean and properly adjusted.
  • Fluids and tires: Check for inflation, depth of tread, and leaks.
  • Emergency equipment: Fire extinguisher, extra fuses, and triangles.

Examiners will ask you to explain how you would inspect and identify problems in those areas.

Basic vehicle control

This section is designed to test your ability to control the vehicle in a controlled environment. Tasks can include:

  • Straight-line backing
  • Offset backing
  • Parallel parking

Precision and control are critical in this section, as you will be graded on accuracy and safety.

On-the-road driving

The final section assesses your capability to operate a commercial vehicle in real-world conditions. You will be evaluated on skills such as:

  • Lane changes and turns
  • Intersections
  • Highway driving
  • Hill driving

The examiner will carefully observe your observing hazards well in advance, making safe decisions, and driving with confidence in traffic.

Step 6. Get your Nebraska physical CDL license

Get your Nebraska physical CDL license
Get your Nebraska physical CDL license

After you pass the skill test, bring your results and all the other remaining documents you will need to the Nebraska DMV. Once the process is complete, you can obtain your official CDL license, allowing you to start your career in Nebraska commercial trucking.

FAQs

1. How much does it cost to get your CDL in Nebraska?

In Nebraska, the fee for a CDL ranges from $4,000 to $8,000. This price will vary depending on:

  • The type of CDL you are applying for (Class A, B, or C).
  • Training program and length.
  • Additional fees for endorsements.
  • Fees for other needs such as study materials, vehicle rental, retesting, or documentation.

Certain training programs can offer financial aid or employer sponsorship to help cover upfront costs. For more information about detailed cost breakdowns and tips to reduce the total expense, check our post on How much it takes to get a CDL in Nebraska.

2. How long is CDL school in Nebraska?

On average, CDL programs in Nebraska take 3 to 6 weeks. The time usually depends on:

  • Your CDL Class: Class A training takes longer, for example.
  • Full-time or part-time training
  • Your schedule, preparation, and ability to pass training

3. Can I keep my CDL without a medical card in Nebraska?

Yes. If you are driving under a non-excepted category, you must obtain a valid MEC on file to keep your CDL. Excepted categories may not need a medical card. Always check with the Nebraska DMV for specific medical requirements for your driving category.

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

There are many types of violations that can disqualify you from getting and maintaining a CDL in Nebraska, including but not limited to:

  • Major violations such as DWI/DUIs, and hit-and-run incidents.
  • Reckless or careless driving.
  • Serious criminal offenses: Using a commercial motor vehicle in the commission of a felony or human trafficking.

Read our post on Nebraska CDL disqualifications for more detailed information.

Final thoughts

Now you get everything on how to get a CDL in Nebraska. Each step, from meeting requirements, choosing class and operation type, studying for your tests to mastering driving skills, directs you toward becoming a skilled and confident driver. So, buckle up, and take the first step to turn your dream of a career in commercial driving into reality. Remember to utilize our resources and practice tests for a smoother process.


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