Obtaining a CDL in Tennessee is a vital step for those dreamers who envision driving big trucks, buses, or any other kind of commercial vehicle. While the whole process may seem somewhat complicated, with the right preparation, it will help you go through it with ease.
Our comprehensive guide covers everything that you need to know about Tennessee’s CDL requirements, including age restrictions, medical evaluation, and training and testing. By understanding what it takes to obtain your CDL in Tennessee, you will be setting yourself up for success in various opportunities within the field of transportation. Now, let’s get into specifics and get you on the road to securing your Tennessee CDL!
What are the Tennessee CDL requirements?
The Tennessee CDL requirements include age restrictions, medical certifications, documentation, and some more to ensure a driver is suitably trained, physically fit, and legally able to drive their commercial vehicles. The completed details are splitted into pieces below:
Age requirements
Meeting the age requirement is one of the first steps to getting a CDL in Tennessee. Drivers between 18 and 20 may apply for an intrastate CDL, which allows them to drive their commercial vehicles within Tennessee state borders. This restriction ensures that younger drivers get experience before handling the complexities of interstate travel.
Besides, you need to be at least 21 years of age to cross states with a commercial vehicle, to carry hazardous materials, and to drive a passenger vehicle, such as buses. These minimum age requirements correspond to federal requirements for safe driving on the highways for particular high-responsibility driving jobs.
Application documentation requirements
A particular type of documentation to prove identity, residency, and eligibility is required for the State of Tennessee in order to apply for a CDL. Remember that the documents need to be originals, recent-issued within the last four months and photocopies are unacceptable. Documents needed will include:
1. Valid DOT medical certification card: This card indicates that you are medically qualified to operate a commercial vehicle. Federal, state, and local government employees who require endorsements such as HazMat (H), Passenger (P), or School Bus (S) must also provide a valid, current DOT medical certification card.
2. Proof of Social Security Number: You must provide your Social Security card or a W-2 showing your Social Security number.
3. Tennessee Driver License or ID: You must show your valid Tennessee driver’s license or identification card. If you are transferring from out of state, you may provide a valid driver’s license or CDL from that state.
4. Two proofs of Tennessee residency: Provide any evidence of your Tennessee residency with acceptable proof of identification such as:
- Recent utility bills (electricity, water, gas).
- Tennessee registration or title for vehicles.
- Mortgage documents or rent agreements.
- Voter registration card.
- The Military Leave and Earnings Statement (LES) lists Tennessee as home of record.
- Current filed tax return note: Wireless/cell phone bills, bank statements, and credit card statements are specifically excluded from being accepted as proof.
5. Proof of U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent resident status:
- Currently valid US Passport.
- Certified birth certificate.
- Consular Report of Birth Abroad.
- Certificate of Naturalization.
- Certificate of Citizenship.
- Valid, unexpired Permanent Resident Card.
It should be noted that each document is subject to verification with the issuing agency, which may delay the issuance of your license. Ensure that you possess all necessary and acceptable documents to facilitate a smooth.
Driving record eligibility requirements
Your driving record is a huge determining factor for your eligibility in Tennessee for a CDL. It requires that all applicants have a clean driving record because commercial drivers are held to a higher standard of safety and accountability.
You should not have had any serious traffic offenses like:
- DUI convictions.
- Reckless driving offenses.
- Hit-and-run incidents.
- History of license suspension or revocation.
You also need to make sure that your current license is valid and not suspended. All fines, open tickets, and suspensions will need to be taken care of ahead of time before trying to apply for your CDL. A very thorough background check of your driving record will be required for the application process in Tennessee, which confirms all of these factors.
Medical certification requirements
To both obtain a CDL in Tennessee and maintain it, drivers are required to fulfill basic medical certification requirements. A Medical Examiner’s Certificate completed by a certified medical professional is needed from all applicants. This certificate indicates that the driver is qualified enough physically to safely operate a commercial vehicle.
Furthermore, a Self-Certification Affidavit should be completed by drivers to indicate the type of commercial driving they will perform:
- Interstate non-excepted: must have a valid Medical Examiner’s Certificate to drive interstate.
- Intrastate non-excepted: must have a valid Medical Examiner’s Certificate to drive within Tennessee.
Make sure to renew and submit your medical certification at least five business days prior to the expiration date to ensure continued CDL privileges. Not having current medical certification can downgrade your CDL.
Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) requirements
Before getting a full CDL in the State of Tennessee, you are required to obtain a Commercial Learner’s Permit. A CLP will enable you to drive a commercial motor vehicle with a licensed CDL holder in the vehicle with you for practice to get ready to take the CDL skills test. Some online CLP practice tests are highly recommended for you to get familiar with the test’s format.
Take the Tennesse CDL practice test here!
The CLP is valid for 180 days and is renewable once. Hence, you get ample time to practice and get ready for the next steps. Under this permit, you will be obliged to follow all the restrictions that come with it, like driving only under the supervision of a CDL holder, and not carrying passengers or hazardous materials.
Training requirements
All applicants for a Commercial Driver’s License in Tennessee are required to follow the federal Entry-Level Driver Training requirements. The ELDT shall apply to drivers who:
- Seeking a Class A or Class B CDL for the first time.
- Upgrade from a Class B to a Class A CDL.
- Some endorsements involve Passenger (P), School Bus (S), or Hazardous Materials (H).
This training shall be done through a training provider included in the FMCSA Training Provider Registry. The ELDT program will involve both theory classroom training and training behind the wheel to ensure the applicant demonstrates the knowledge and skills necessary to operate a commercial motor vehicle safely.
Skills tests requirements
Passing the skills test is a key factor in acquiring a CDL in Tennessee. The test has been developed to check your ability to drive a commercial vehicle safely and has three major parts: Pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and on-road driving.
Remember, it is advisable to come prepared for the test because you have to pass all three components to be issued a CDL. Most applicants prefer practicing with a licensed instructor or at a CDL training school to get an idea of what the testing will entail.
FAQs
1. Can I get a CDL without going to school in Tennessee?
Yes if you belong to exemptions. If not, the federal Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) requires that applicants who are applying for a Class A or Class B CDL for the first time; upgrading from a Class B to Class A CDL; and those applying for Passenger, School Bus, or Hazardous Materials endorsements receive required training from a provider listed on the FMCSA Training Provider Registry.
2. What documents do I need to apply for a CDL license in Tennessee?
The required documents for applying for a CDL in Tennessee include:
- Proof of identity.
- Proof of U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent residency.
- Social Security Number.
- Proof of Tennessee residency.
- Valid Tennessee Driver’s License.
- Medical certification.
Ensure all of these documents are either original or certified copies; photocopies are not acceptable. The availability of this paperwork will significantly expedite the application process.
Final thoughts
The guidance on how to get a commercial driver’s license in Tennessee is highlighted here; this will equip you with information to handle any other application-related work concerning licenses for commercial drivers. Keep in mind that good training, a good driving record, and correct paperwork will make a huge difference in how your application will be handled. The appropriate preparation will allow you to satisfy the Tennessee CDL requirements and take your first step toward a very promising and secure future in commercial driving.
