Are you struggling to look for comprehensive Oregon CDL requirements? Navigating the rules and long lists of qualifications is understandable to feel overwhelmed, especially when you are a beginner in this field. But don’t worry, we have got you covered. This article will provide a clear and comprehensive overview of all requirements you need to fulfill, from age limits, and medical examination to training and testing. Whether you are eager to start this industry or looking to upgrade your license, we provide everything you need to meet the requirements and hit the road faster. Keep reading for more!
What are the Oregon CDL requirements?
To obtain a CDL in Oregon, there are several important requirements to ensure that you are prepared and safe as a professional driver. Specifically:
Minimum age requirements
Oregon has age restrictions for CDL applicants as follows:
- Intrastate CDL: You must be at least 18 years old to operate commercial vehicles within the state lines.
- Interstate and special endorsement: You must be at least 21 years old to drive a commercial vehicle across state lines or transport hazardous materials.
Required Documentation
You have to prepare the following documents to apply for a CDL in Oregon:
- Proof of identity and date of birth: Provide some common documents that contain your name and date of birth such as:
- U.S. birth certificate issued by a state (hospital-issued certificate is not accepted).
- U.S. passport or foreign passport with an English translation.
- Permanent resident card.
- Oregon tribal identification.
- U.S. military discharge papers.
- Certified school records.
- Proof of legal presence:
- For U.S. citizens: A verified social security card is required.
- For non-U.S. citizens: Valid immigration documents including permanent resident card – Green Card or employment authorization document.
- Proof of residency: Provide two printed documents to verify your residency in Oregon, such as:
- Utility bill statement from a providing company.
- Oregon vehicle title or registration card.
- Statements from banks or other financial institutions.
- Lease or rental agreement.
- Paychecks.
- Social Security Number (SSN): CDL applicants must show a valid Social Security Number.
- Possess an Oregon driver’s license (non-commercial Class C) or at least meet the qualifications to get it.
Make sure all documents are up-to-date, readable, and reflect the same name as on your application. You must have original or certified copies as photocopies will not be accepted.
Certification of driving type
You must self-certify the type of driving you intend to do in the future. Select one of the following options:
- Non-excepted interstate: Drivers who are allowed to drive across state lines and are subject to all federal regulations.
- Excepted interstate: Drivers are exempt from some of the federal regulations because they will drive in interstate commerce in school buses or government vehicles.
- Non-exceptioned intrastate: If the driver operates only in Oregon, no interstate activity will take place under the operation’s own regulations.
Oregon DMV recommends applicants to certify as non-excepted interstate drivers for driving without limitations.
Medical examination
You must possess a valid medical certificate to prove you are physically fit to deal with the demands of commercial driving. You must pass an examination by an FMCSA-certified medical examiner. Key health standards include:
- Vision: 20/40 vision in each eye with or without corrective lenses.
- Hearing: Ability to hear a whisper from five feet away with or without hearing aids.
- Cardiovascular health: Blood pressure should be within safe limits. Some conditions may need extra clearance.
Background and driving record check
Your driving record will be checked to ensure that you meet CDL qualification requirements. You will be disqualified for:
- Have prohibited status in the Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse.
- Reckless driving or hit-and-run offenses.
- Excessive traffic infractions within a short period.
- Commit felonies using a commercial motor vehicle.
- Volatate out-of-service orders.
- Offense railroad crossings.
For details, check the Oregon CDL disqualifications to ensure you are still qualified to apply for a CDL.
Commercial Learner’s Permit – CLP
You must have a CLP to get a CDL in Oregon. To obtain an Oregon CLP, you have to pass one or more written tests as follows:
- General knowledge test: Covers traffic laws, vehicle operation, and safety regulations.
- Endorsement-specific tests: For special driving privileges, such as passenger transport or hazardous materials.
- Air brakes test: For drivers of vehicles equipped with air brake systems.
- Combination vehicles test: For Class A CDL applicants.
These tests require at least an 80% score to pass. To maximize your scores and boost your passing probability on the first try, take the realistic CDL practice tests by CDL Prep.
Take the Oregon CDL practice tests now!
Note: You must hold your CLP for 14 days before the CDL skills test.
Entry-Level Driver Training – ELDT
According to the regulation of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration – FMCSA, you must complete the ELDT program if:
- You are applying for a Class A or B CDL for the first time.
- You want to upgrade your license from Class B to Class A.
- You plan to transport hazardous materials.
When enrolling in the ELDT program, you must complete these two-course elements:
- Theoretical training: In-class training.
- Behind-the-wheel training: Practice driving.
Passing the CDL skills test
You must pass three parts of the CDL skills test to prove that you can operate a commercial vehicle safely and effectively:
- Pre-trip inspection: Demonstrate the ability to conduct an adequate safety inspection of your vehicle.
Take Oregon CDL Pre-trip practice tests
- Basic control skills: Execute vehicle maneuvers, including parking, backing, and operating in tight spaces.
- On-the-road driving: Public road driving to demonstrate adherence to the traffic rules and control of the vehicle in normal life situations.
FAQs
1. What vehicles require a CDL in Oregon?
If you plan to operate the following vehicles, you have to obtain a CDL:
- Heavy vehicles: Any vehicle that weighs 26,001 pounds or more, either as its actual gross vehicle weight or its gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR).
- Combination vehicles: A trailer or more than one trailer with a GVWR or actual gross vehicle weight of more than 10,000 pounds in combination with the towing vehicle exceeds 26,001 pounds.
- Passenger vehicles: Any vehicle designed to transport 16 or more passengers including the driver.
- Hazardous materials vehicles: Any size vehicle used for transporting hazardous materials according to federal regulations.
There are some exceptions including:
- Recreational vehicles for personal use.
- Firefighter’s emergency vehicles.
- Qualified emergency service volunteers driving emergency vehicles.
Check with the Oregon DMV for your particular vehicle and operation type to confirm CDL requirements.
2. Do you need to do a medical exam in Oregon for CDL?
Yes, if you certify as a non-excepted interstate driver, you need to undergo a medical exam to obtain a Medical Examiner’s Certificate from an FMCSA-authorized examiner. Drivers who certify as excepted interstate or non-excepted intrastate may not need to obtain an MEC.
Final thoughts
Acquiring a CDL in Oregon is the first step toward a successful career in commercial driving. By understanding the Oregon CDL requirements, you can ensure a smoother path to success. Now, it is time to embark on this journey. Put time and effort into preparation and steady practice with our resources to ace every stage. Your future as a commercial driver in Oregon starts here! Good luck!
