Utah CDL Requirements: Discover updated requirements

Looking to get your Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) in Utah? Understanding the state’s requirements is crucial for your success. Utah follows the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) guidelines while maintaining some state-specific regulations. Before hitting the road as a commercial driver, you will need to meet age requirements, pass medical examination, complete required training, and successfully complete both written and skills tests.

Now scrolling down to discover key details about these requirements!

What are the Utah CDL requirements?

Utah CDL requirements include age standards, proof of residency or identity, a medical certification, completing the Entry-level Driver Training, and passing the CDL Knowledge and Skills test. Keep reading to see the details!

utah cdl requirements
Utah CDL requirements

Age

According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, CDL applicants must be at least 18 years old to drive a commercial vehicle within the state. In order to legally drive outside the state or to transport hazardous material, drivers must be at least 21 years old.

These age standards are to ensure drivers are not only physically capable of operating commercial vehicles, but also to hold responsible for their job.

Proof of residency/identity

As part of the requirements for obtaining a CDL in Utah, applicants must provide proof of their residency and identity. This is to ensure that the individual is a legitimate resident of the state and meets the legal identification standards set by Utah law.

Acceptable documents include:

  • US passport
  • Birth certificate
  • Permanent resident card
  • Utility bills
  • Lease agreements
  • bank statements
  • Government-issued documents (showing the applicant’s name and Utah address).

Medical certification

To prove that you are completely physically suitable for driving commercial vehicles, you have to submit the medical certification that is issued by a certified health examiner. In order to get that certificate, you will have to go through DOT physical – a comprehensive health examination.

When taking this test, you will be thoroughly examined, from your previous health condition to current health state. The examiner will conduct the health check intensively to make sure that you are qualified to be handed the Medical Examiner Certificate (MEC) for CDL application.

Specifically, there are some requirements to be qualified for the CDL in Utah in terms of vision, hearing, and blood pressure. Now let’s discover the details!

Vision

The standard vision requirement is 20/40 in both eyes, with or without correction (such as glasses or contact lenses). The vision test checks the ability to see at a distance and is crucial for safety on the road, especially in a commercial driving setting where the driver needs to be aware of the surroundings, signs, and hazards.

If a driver requires corrective lenses to meet the 20/40 standard, they must wear them while operating the commercial vehicle. Additionally, if the applicant has a history of certain vision conditions, such as monocular vision (only one functional eye), they may still be eligible for a CDL, but they will need to provide medical documentation and pass a more thorough evaluation to ensure they are capable of driving safely.

Hearing

Hearing is another critical requirement for obtaining a CDL in Utah. Applicants must be able to perceive a forced whisper at a distance of at least 5 feet in one ear, with or without the use of hearing aids. This test ensures that drivers can hear essential sounds while driving, such as horns, sirens, and emergency vehicle signals, all of which are vital for safety.

If an applicant fails the hearing test, they may still be eligible for a CDL by providing medical documentation proving they can safely operate a commercial vehicle despite hearing impairments. This may involve a hearing aid or other accommodations that ensure the driver’s safety and the safety of others on the road.

Blood pressure

Blood pressure is an essential factor in determining an individual’s ability to safely operate a commercial vehicle in Utah. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) guidelines specify that an applicant’s blood pressure should be 140/90 or lower to qualify for a CDL. If an applicant’s blood pressure is above this limit, they may still be approved for a CDL but will need to provide medical documentation, possibly including treatment plans, to show that their condition is controlled.

utah cdl requirements
Blood pressure requirements

If a driver’s blood pressure is high, it may indicate an increased risk for cardiovascular events, which can be dangerous while operating a commercial vehicle. Drivers with hypertension may be required to undergo additional medical evaluations to determine whether they are fit to drive safely. Regular monitoring and medication management may be required to maintain a valid CDL under these circumstances.

Entry-Level Driver Training

The Entry-level Driver Training (ELDT) is a requirement for obtaining a CDL in Utah. It ensures that new commercial drivers receive proper training in essential driving skills and safety practices.

The ELDT program includes both theory and behind-the-wheel training, covering topics such as vehicle operation, road safety, and regulatory knowledge. The training must be provided by a registered training provider and is mandatory for all individuals seeking to

  • Obtain a Class A or Class B CDL for the first time
  • Upgrade an existing Class B CDL to a Class A CDL
  • Acquire a school bus (S), passenger (P), or hazardous materials (H) endorsement for the first time

CDL Knowledge and Skills test

Another requirement to get a CDL in Utah is passing the CDL Knowledge test and CDL Skills test. These two tests are to examine your knowledge as well as your experience in operating commercial vehicles. Let’s take a deeper understanding of these two tests below!

Knowledge test

The CDL Knowledge Test is a crucial step in obtaining a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) in Utah. It ensures that applicants have a solid understanding of the rules, regulations, and safety practices necessary to operate commercial vehicles safely. Passing the knowledge test is a fundamental requirement before moving on to the hands-on skills portion of the CDL process. Let’s discover what is inside this test!

General knowledge test

The general knowledge test assesses an applicant’s understanding of basic driving rules, road safety, and regulations relevant to operating a commercial vehicle. Topics include traffic signs, defensive driving techniques, and the rules of the road. Passing this test is a prerequisite for obtaining a CDL in Utah.

Air Brakes (if applicable)

The air brake test is focused on the specific operation and maintenance of air brake systems in commercial vehicles. Applicants must demonstrate their knowledge of how air brakes work, including proper usage, inspection, and troubleshooting. This test is required for drivers of vehicles equipped with air brakes.

Combination Vehicle (if applicable)

This test evaluates the applicant’s knowledge of handling combination vehicles, which include trucks and trailers. The test covers coupling and uncoupling procedures, as well as the proper operation of both the truck and trailer in various driving conditions.

In addition to the standard CDL, drivers can obtain various endorsements to operate specific types of vehicles. These include the School Bus (S), Passenger (P), Hazardous Materials (H), Tanker (N), and Doubles/Triples (T) endorsements. Each endorsement requires additional knowledge and skills tests to ensure drivers are qualified to safely transport passengers, hazardous materials, or specialized loads.

Eager to ace the CDL Knowledge test? Let’s practice the Utah CDL Knowledge test here!

Skills test

The CDL Skills Test evaluates the driver’s competence in real-world situations, focusing on key areas such as vehicle inspection, basic control skills, and on-road driving performance. The skills test ensures that drivers can safely handle a commercial vehicle, manage complex maneuvers, and respond effectively to various driving conditions. Skills test includes three main sections as stated below:

Pre-trip inspection

During the pre-trip inspection, applicants must demonstrate their ability to inspect the commercial vehicle for safety and compliance with regulations. This includes checking key components such as brakes, tires, lights, and fluid levels to ensure the vehicle is roadworthy before driving.

Basic vehicle control

The basic vehicle control test evaluates the driver’s ability to maneuver the vehicle in controlled environments. This includes skills like backing up, parking, and making tight turns. Applicants must show proficiency in handling the vehicle and maintaining control in various low-speed maneuvers.

On-road driving

The on-road driving test involves operating the commercial vehicle in real traffic conditions. Applicants must demonstrate their ability to drive safely, follow traffic laws, navigate intersections, make lane changes, and respond to potential hazards. This portion tests the driver’s overall competence behind the wheel in real-world scenarios.

Final Thought

Earning your CDL in Utah is your gateway to a rewarding career in commercial driving. By understanding the Utah CDL requirements and preparing thoroughly, you’ll be ready to seize opportunities in the transportation industry. Start your journey today and drive toward success!


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