Are you ready for a gripping career as a commercial driver in Oklahoma? Are you wondering, “How to get a CDL in Oklahoma?” You are in the right spot! Getting a CDL opens an entire world of possibilities in transportation, from truck and bus driving to the operation of more specialized vehicles. Below is an all-in-one guide through the steps and requirements necessary for obtaining a CDL in Oklahoma. We will shed light on how you can begin this journey of becoming a commercial driver.
What are the requirements for CDL in Oklahoma?
Before you apply for an Oklahoma CDL, you must meet the following requirements, according to the Oklahoma Commercial Driving CDL:
- You must be at least 18 years old to drive within Oklahoma; for interstate driving, you must be 21 years old.
- You will be asked to prove your identity, your Oklahoma residency, and your legal presence in the U.S.
- You must have a Department of Transportation medical examination and provide a medical certificate.
- A clean driving record is preferred since some violations will disqualify you from obtaining a CDL.
- You are able to read and speak English.
- You have to pass the vision test.
- You have to successfully finish the Entry Level Driver Training (ELDT).
- You have to obtain a Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) at least 14 days before taking the skills tests.
How to get a CDL in Oklahoma?
Obtaining a commercial driver’s license in Oklahoma is made up of both written and practical testing.
Take the CDL written knowledge test
You will start by passing a written knowledge test that will determine your understanding of the rules of the road in commercial driving and safety.
General knowledge test
The General knowledge test is required for getting a CDL in Oklahoma and basically covers the basics of commercial driving. Topics covered are:
- Vehicle inspection: Preoperational checks of the vehicle before one begins driving.
- Driving safety: Techniques of defensive driving, hazard perception, and how to manage emergencies.
- Transporting cargo: Proper loading of cargo, securing, and unloading.
- Air brakes: If applicable, understand how air brake systems work.
- Environmental conditions: Adjusting driving according to various weather and/or road conditions.
There are 50 multiple-choice questions on the test and a minimum score to pass must reach 80% of the total. Also, these questions are computer-generated, taken through Oklahoma Department of Public Safety (DPS) offices.
Endorsement test (if applicable)
Tests for endorsements are not mandatory but are a must in case you intend to drive particular vehicles or carry specific goods. Such tests allow you to extend your CDL to include other qualifications. Types of endorsements are:
- Hazardous materials (H endorsement): Covers safe handling and regulations for the transportation of dangerous materials.
- Passenger vehicles (P): Covers passenger protection and knowledge of the operation of the vehicle.
- Tanker vehicles (N): Tests the driver’s knowledge of how the movement of liquids affects the control of the vehicle.
- Double/Triple trailers (T): For those drivers who want to pull two or three trailers at once, special handling and safety are included in this endorsement.
- School bus (S): Covers the regulations and safety issues relevant to driving a school bus.
- Tank & Hazardous Materials (X): Allowing you to transport hazardous liquids or gases in bulk.
Endorsement test | Total questions | Passing score |
Hazardous Materials | 30 | 24 |
Passenger Transport | 20 | 16 |
Doubles/Triples | 20 | 16 |
School Bus | 20 | 16 |
Tank Vehicle | 20 | 16 |
Air brakes test (if applicable)
The air brakes test is required for those driver applicants desiring to operate a vehicle equipped with air brakes and remove the “L” restriction from their CDL. It ensures that the driver knows how the air braking system works and how to use it properly on the road. To pass the test, you are required to answered correctly 20 out of 25 multiple choice questions (80%) and prepare carefully about:
- Components: The parts of the air brake system, including the compressor, tanks, valves, and slack adjustors.
- System operation: How air brakes function and respond under operation.
- Emergency braking: Operating procedures for controlled braking, handling brake failure.
- Stopping distances: How to calculate safe following and stopping distances with air brakes.
Combination vehicles test (if applicable)
This is the test you need to take if you wish to drive vehicles that contain more than one unit, such as tractor-trailers. It aims to test drivers that they should know how to operate combination vehicles, given that the demands for handling, safety, and control differ from those of single units.
Key components you have to focus on are:
- The safe coupling and uncoupling of trailers.
- How driving combinations turn, brake, and accelerate.
- Steps in the pre-trip inspection of combination vehicles, including but not limited to checks on the coupling system.
- The prevention especially in the case of sharp turns and hard braking.
- The driver should have basic practical knowledge of operations regarding air brakes on a vehicle with a trailer.
The test-taker is expected to answer 20 multiple choice questions and gain a passing score of 80% or more.
When completing all the knowledge tests, you will be issued a Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) that allows you to practice driving commercial vehicles and also to prepare for your skills tests.
Take the Oklahoma CDL practice test here!
Take the CDL skill test
These written tests will then be followed by a set of skill tests which will prove that you can actually drive safely on the road:
Pre-trip inspection
This first section of the CDL skills test will test your ability to check your vehicle for safety and roadworthiness before every trip. Some of the topics covered under this segment include:
- Vehicle component check: engine, brakes, tires, lights, signals, steering.
- Leaks, damage, and fluid level checks.
- Ensure safety equipment are on board such as fire extinguishers and reflective triangles.
- Air brake check, if the vehicle is so equipped to ensure that it works
You will verbally or physically walk around the vehicle describing what you are checking or the examiner will ask you to check certain parts of the vehicle.
Basic vehicle control
This test measures your ability to control the vehicle in controlled situations, usually in a closed lot or testing facility. Topics covered below:
- Backing: Straight-line backing and offset backing (backing into lanes or spaces at an angle).
- Parallel parking: Both sight-side and blind-side parallel parking methods.
- Alley docking: Backing the vehicle into an alley dock position.
You’re being measured on your accuracy, control, and ability to avoid obstacles. You can lose points for too many pull-ups, knocked-over cones, or improper positioning.
On-road driving
The On-road driving test is the last portion of the CDL skills test and will actually put you in the real traffic to operate the vehicle. You are required to:
- Make safe, controlled right and left turns.
- Stay centered in your lane and properly change lanes when necessary.
- Approach, stop, and proceed through intersections safely.
- Smooth, effective braking, including emergency stops when necessary.
- Merging, exiting, and maintaining appropriate speeds on highways.
The test will take about 30-45 minutes depending on the route taken. You will drive on public roads and follow directions given by an examiner. Be careful with the deductions that are taken off for traffic violations, unsafe maneuvers, or failure to follow instructions.
Receive the actual license
Once you have passed the written knowledge and skills tests-pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and on-road driving, you are clear to get your CDL. Here’s how the final steps go:
- Submit documentation
- Pay required fees
- License printing
- Endorsement verification
- Driving restrictions (if any)
FAQs
1. How much does it cost to get a CDL in Oklahoma?
On average, you will be paying from $50 to $150 to get your CDL license in Oklahoma due to test and licensing fees. You could be having to pay more, though, if you decide to go to a training program and/or get endorsements. For the details, read here.
2. How to get a CDL permit in Oklahoma?
First, you must pass the written knowledge tests for obtaining a CDL permit. A class permit allows you to practice driving with a qualified CDL holder.
3. How to get a class A CDL in Oklahoma?
To get a class A CDL, you will have to take and pass the general knowledge, air brakes, and combination vehicle tests. You also need to take the skill tests for Class A vehicles.
4. How to get a class B CDL in Oklahoma?
To get a class B CDL, you’ll have to take and pass the general knowledge test and any endorsement tests that apply, such as the air brakes test. You’ll also need to take the skill tests for class B vehicles.
5. How long does it take to get a CDL license in Oklahoma?
Time to get a CDL in Oklahoma may vary depending on the individual preparation and availability of testing. Typically, you will need from 4 weeks up to 8 weeks to become licensed.
6. Do you have to go to school for a CDL in Oklahoma?
No. Although attending a truck driving school is by no means a necessity, it is helpful since it prepares you for the tests and equips you with hands-on experience in driving.
7. How hard is the CDL test in Oklahoma?
The CDL test is difficult or easy often depending on one’s level of preparation toward it and driving experience. Pretty many would say that with the right study and practice, you should make it through without much hassle.
8. Can you get a CDL with 2 DUI in Oklahoma?
No, within Oklahoma State, if you have two DUIs within your driving record, you will generally not be allowed to get a CDL. The state classifies having more than one DUI as a serious violation; thus, you will be disqualified for some period of time.
9. Can I get a CDL with a DUI in Oklahoma?
It all is situational and depends on how long ago the DUI was. You are still able to apply for a CDL with one DUI after a period, usually one year; however, you will have to show documentation that you have fulfilled all legal obligations such as court-ordered programs.
10. Can you get a CDL with 2 DWI in Oklahoma?
Like DUI offenses, two convictions of DWI also make you ineligible for a CDL in Oklahoma. This is because generally, multiple offenses extend the period of disqualification, which is very unaffordable for someone looking forward to acquiring a CDL.
11. Can you get a CDL with a felony in Oklahoma?
Yes, you can get a CDL in Oklahoma if you have been convicted of a felony; this again depends upon the type of felony committed. For example, driving felonies, violent crimes, or major crimes against other persons will reject your application. Conversely, if the felony does not involve driving and you have served the sentence, including parole and probation, you may apply.
Conclusion
A CDL obtained in Oklahoma can be a major achievement toward obtaining a good career in commercial driving. Understand the requirements and follow the steps to confidently navigate the process. Then the way of exploring how to get a CDL in Oklahoma becomes smoother. So, get up and ace your commercial driving career! May your journey be rewarding and fulfilling!