Steps to Getting Your CDL in Arkansas
Obtaining a CDL in Arkansas is essential if you want to operate various types of vehicles, such as trucks, school buses, or adding trailers. The process involves meeting several requirements, including passing a series of tests and completing Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT). Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to obtain your CDL in Arkansas, including essential details about endorsements, costs, and preparing for the Skills Test.
Submit a CDL Application
Visit your local DMV office and fill out an application for a CDL. You will also need to provide proof of identity, residency, and your Social Security number, as well as documents like a birth certificate to confirm your eligibility.
Pass a Medical Examination
Complete a medical examination to obtain a Medical Examiner's Certificate (MEC) from a certified medical examiner listed on the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) National Registry. This ensures you meet the medical requirements for a valid driver license.
Take and Pass the CDL Written Knowledge Test
The knowledge test consists of multiple-choice questions on general knowledge, air brakes, and combination of vehicles. You may also need to take additional endorsement tests for specific types of vehicles or cargo.
Schedule and Pass a Skills Test
Schedule and pass the Skills Test, which includes a Pre-trip Inspection, basic vehicle control, and an on-road driving test. You can schedule the skills test through a third-party tester or the Arkansas State Police. Skills tested include maneuvers like driver-side parallel parking and other road driving exam elements.
Pay Fees for the CDL Application and Endorsements
Pay the required fees for the CDL application, written and skills tests, and any additional endorsements you may need.
Upon passing all necessary tests and meeting all requirements, you will be issued a CDL by the Arkansas State Police. It is important to note that there may be additional requirements or steps to obtain a CDL in Arkansas, so it’s recommended to check with your local DMV office or visit the Arkansas State Police website for more information.
Eligibility Requirements for a CDL in Arkansas
Age Requirements
To apply for a CDL in Arkansas, you must meet certain requirements. A valid driver must be at least 18 years old to operate commercial motor vehicles within the state. However, to drive across state lines or apply for special endorsements like Hazardous Materials or Passenger Vehicles, you must be 21 years old. Some special vehicles, such as farm vehicles and military vehicles, may have different requirements.
Proof of Residency and Legal Presence
During the application process, you will need to provide proof of residency and either proof of citizenship or proof of legal presence in the U.S. Documents such as your birth certificate and Social Security card are required. Additionally, a valid Medical Examiner’s Certificate, which you obtain after passing a DOT physical exam, is necessary. Drivers requiring a 1-year medical certificate or SPE certificate must also meet specific medical certificate requirements.
Self-Certification and Driver Record
All applicants must complete Driver Self-Certification to specify whether they are “non-excepted” intrastate drivers or interstate drivers and to verify their driver record. More information on this can be found on the FMCSA self-certification page.
Types of CDLs: Class A, B, and C
Arkansas offers three classes of CDLs, depending on the type of motor vehicle you plan to operate. These are the key classes for operating commercial motor vehicles:
Class A CDL: Required for operating a combination of vehicles with a Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR) of 26,001 pounds or more, including towed units of 10,001 pounds or more.
Class B CDL: For single vehicles with a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of 26,001 pounds or more, including those towing units of 10,000 pounds or less.
Class C CDL: For single vehicles or combination vehicles that do not fit the type of vehicle for Class A or Class B commercial vehicle description with a GCWR of 26,000 pounds or less, towing units of 10,000 pounds or less, passenger vehicles, or to transport hazardous materials.
Completing Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) Theory
Completing Entry-Level Driver Training is a mandatory step before taking any skills or endorsement tests. This includes both theory and behind-the-wheel training programs. Arkansas in-person training schools typically offer a combination of classroom instruction and road driving practice.
CDL eXpert offers ELDT Theory and other Theory-based instruction online. CDL Expert is a registered provider with the FMCSA and can be verified on the FMCSA Training Provider Registry website. You can register for ELDT or any of our other online classes at CDL eXpert ELDT. Our Theory course will help you study to get your CLP. CDL eXpert does not offer any behind-the-wheel training.
Obtaining a Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP)
Before you can take your commercial driver skills test, you must obtain a Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP):
Knowledge Test Requirements: Pass several knowledge tests covering essential topics like Pre-trip vehicle Inspection, safe operation, and handling commercial motor vehicles. The skills test includes elements like parallel parking and maneuvering various types of vehicles, from combination of vehicles to passenger vehicles.
Document Submission: During the application process, you will need to submit various documents, including a birth certificate, medical certificate, and proof of residency.
Completing Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) Behind-the-Wheel
After receiving your CLP, you must hold it for 14 days before the road and skills testing. During this time, you will need to complete behind-the-wheel training through an approved truck driving program. These programs offer real-world road driving experiences under the supervision of certified instructors. Arkansas Truck Driving Job Partners also help connect students with employers seeking trained drivers.
Programs are scheduled during normal business hours and CDL testing hours. Some training centers may offer afternoon hours or standard hours for added flexibility.
Taking the CDL Skills Test
Once you complete the behind-the-wheel instruction and have held your CLP for at least 14 days, you can schedule your commercial driver skills exam. This test involves the Pre-trip Inspection, Basic Vehicle Control, and the Road Driving Exam. During the exam, you will be tested on your ability to operate a commercial motor vehicle safely.
Upon passing all necessary tests and meeting all requirements, you will be issued a CDL by the Arkansas State Police. It is important to note that there may be additional requirements or steps to obtain a CDL in Arkansas, so it’s recommended to check with your local DMV office or visit the Arkansas State Police website for more information.
Understanding Endorsements
Endorsements are required depending on what you will be transporting or the type of vehicles you plan to operate. Some examples include:
Hazardous Materials Endorsement (H) for transporting hazardous materials, which requires a background check and special endorsement tests. You can read the CDL Expert blog about specific steps to getting a HazMat endorsement here.
Passenger (P) required to transport 15 or more passengers including the driver.
School Bus (S) required to drive a school bus.
Tanker (N) required to transport a tank vehicle.
Doubles and Triples (T) required to transport two or three trailers.
HazMat Tanker Combination (X) required if both the HazMat and Tanker are added to CDL.
Maintaining and Renewing Your CDL
Certain commercial driving privileges, such as the hazardous materials endorsement, must be renewed every five years, which includes a background check and testing. Maintaining a safe driving record is crucial for keeping your CDL active. To avoid suspension, adhere to Arkansas state regulations and Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration guidelines.
The cost of obtaining a CDL in Arkansas depends on the CDL class and endorsements you require. Additional fees may apply for compliance with Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations.
In conclusion, obtaining a CDL in Arkansas requires extensive training, including Entry-Level Driver Training, passing knowledge and Skills Test, and securing the necessary endorsements. By following federal and state requirements, you can start a career in commercial truck driving in Arkansas.
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