How long does it take to get a CDL license in Nevada: Your Comprehensive Timeline

If you’re looking to embark on your career in Nevada commercial driving, understanding how long does it take to get a CDL license in Nevada, is such an important step. The time usually ranges between 4-8 weeks, depending on various factors such as training program, preparation towards tests, and availability of scheduling. This timeline also entails attaining a Commercial Learner’s Permit, undergoing CDL training, and passing the required skills test. Our step-by-step guide is available here to help you understand each step and the time commitment involved.

How long does it take to get a CDL license in Nevada?

On average, the process may take 4-8 weeks for completion, preparatory training inclusive, the time needed to get a CLP, and taking the skills test for the CDL. The guide below will help you understand the time estimates for each stage.

Choose your CDL Class and endorsements

The first step to getting your CDL license in Nevada is to determine which class of CDL license applies to your career goals. There are three classes of commercial driver licenses in Nevada, each for different types of commercial vehicles:

  • Class A CDL: Required to operate any combination vehicle with a gross combination weight rating (GCWR) of 26,001 pounds or more, provided the gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of the towed vehicle is more than 10,000 pounds.
  • Class B CDL: Applies to single vehicles with a GCWR of 26,001 pounds or more, or towing vehicles weighing less than 10,000 pounds, such as buses or box trucks.
  • Class C CDL: Required to operate any vehicle that is designed to transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver; or any vehicle placarded for hazardous materials, and does not meet the criteria for a Class A or B.

Once you have selected your CDL class, you will also want to decide if you need any endorsements. Endorsements increase your qualifications and may be required depending on the job you are applying for. Common endorsements include:

  • Hazardous materials (H): To carry hazardous materials.
  • Tanker (N): For vehicles designed to carry liquid or gaseous materials in bulk.
  • Passenger (P): For driving vehicles carrying more than one passenger, like buses.
  • Doubles/triples (T): For towing multiple trailers.
  • School bus (S): Required to operate school buses.
  • Hazmat & Tank (X): For transporting hazardous materials on tankers.
how long does it take to get a cdl in nevada
Choose your CDL Class and endorsements

Estimated time: Researching the different classes and endorsements for a CDL generally takes 1-2 days, but take all the time you need to ensure that you select those that best fit your career goals. A little clarity now will save a lot of time and effort later on.

Prepare required documents

It is very important first to collect all necessary documents to avoid delays in processing CDL applications in Nevada. Specific forms of identification and proof are required by the Nevada Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to determine your eligibility for a Commercial Driver’s License. Here is what you will need:

  • Proof of identity and legal presence.
  • Social Security Number (SSN).
  • Proof of Nevada residency.
  • Medical examiner’s certificate (DOT physical).
  • Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) application.
how long does it take to get a cdl in nevada
Prepare required documents

Estimated time: Amassing the necessary documents requires from 1 to 2 weeks, depending on whether you already have the complete set or whether you need to request new copies. This will help you to avoid wasting time later during the application process by taking care to double-check the documents in Nevada CDL requirements now.

Obtain a Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP)

A Commercial Learner’s Permit is one of the major steps toward receiving your CDL license in Nevada. The CLP will permit you to practice driving a commercial vehicle under the supervision of a licensed CDL holder. It is required that you have this permit at least 14 days before you take your CDL skills test. Here’s how to get your CLP:

Study for the knowledge tests

Some key topics include but are not limited to:

  • Vehicle inspections.
  • Basic control of the vehicle.
  • Safety and regulations on the road.

This step often takes 1-2 weeks. Study the manual thoroughly and prepare by taking some practice tests to check your knowledge of the aspects of the manual for preparation.

Take the Nevada CDL practice test now!

Submit the application to the DMV

Go to the nearest Nevada DMV office with the documents needed for your proof of identity, residency, and Social Security number, in addition to your Medical Examiner’s Certificate. You can surely complete this within 1 day.

Take the written knowledge tests

This test occurs in 1 day, given at the DMV and contains multiple-choice questions. If you wish to get endorsements like Hazmat or Passenger, then for each one you’ll be taking extra written tests.

Hold the CLP for 14 days

Nevada requires you to possess your CLP for at least 14 days prior to making an appointment for your CDL skills test. You can practice driving with a licensed CDL holder during this period to get some hands-on experience.

Estimated time:

  • Study and preparation: From 1–2 weeks for most individuals, given their knowledge level and studying schedule.
  • Mandatory holding period: For about 14 days.

Complete CDL training

CDL training is among the major milestones in the process of getting your Commercial Driver’s License in Nevada. This equips you with the skill and knowledge needed to handle a commercial vehicle on the road and prepare for the CDL skills test. As of February 7, 2022, the new Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) regulations established by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration FMCSA will be applicable to all new CDL applicants.

how long does it take to get a cdl in nevada
Complete CDL training

Generally, the ELDT contains:

  • Theory instruction: This is delivered about the vehicle systems, safety regulations, and driving techniques, which may very often be completed entirely online.
  • Behind-the-wheel practice: It is hands-on training carried out on the driving range and/or public roads.

Estimated time:

  • Full-time programs: About 3-6 weeks.
  • Part-time programs: About 6-12 weeks.

Pass the CDL skills test

The almost last step in proving your potential for handling a commercial vehicle is the skills section of the CDL test. The comprehensive test is part of the licensing requirements to obtain your Commercial Driver’s License in Nevada. The main processes for how to ace the skills test are:

  1. Understanding the test format and components.
  2. Practicing with a licensed CDL holder.
  3. Schedule your skills tests.
  4. Taking the real skills tests.

Estimated time:

  • Practice and training: 1-2 weeks depending on your confidence and skill level.
  • Test scheduling and completion: 1-2 weeks based on the schedule available at the DMV.

Obtain a physical CDL

The last thing to do after successfully passing the CDL skills test is to get your physical Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) from the Nevada Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). Here is what you should know in terms of completing the final step:

  1. Visit the DMV.
  2. Submit needed documents.
  3. Pay the CDL fee.
  4. Receive the temporary CDL.
  5. Get the official CDL card.
Obtain a physical CDL
Obtain a physical CDL

Estimated time:

  • DMV visit and processing: 1–3 days, depending on availability of the appointment.
  • Delivery of the official CDL card: 7–10 business days.

The last step of the licensing process is receiving your physical CDL, and you can officially begin your career as a commercial driver in Nevada. This step gets you on the road and ready to start your journey.

FAQs

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

It usually takes 4-8 weeks to get a CDL Class A in Nevada. This includes the 14-day minimum holding period for your CLP, the completion of CDL training, and the passage of the skills test. The exact time will vary depending on training program availability and DMV test appointment availability.

2. How long is CDL school in Nevada?

In Nevada, most CDL schools take around 3-6 weeks for those attending full-time. It would take longer for the part-time programs, often stretching to 6-12 weeks, depending on your schedule. These involve in-class instruction and training behind the wheel to properly prepare you for the CDL skills test and your driving career.

Final thoughts

Obtaining a CDL license in Nevada is perhaps the most important step for a rewarding career in commercial driving. The overall process is between 4 and 8 weeks long. Hence, it is critical to know all stages involved, from selecting the proper CDL class with endorsements to finishing training, passing the skill test, and getting your physical CDL. The hours you have put in on each step will certainly pay off with a career that is not only stable but well worth your efforts. Now, you got the answer for how long does it take to get a CDL license in Nevada? Don’t wait anymore, start your way to getting a CDL license in Nevada today!


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