Last Updated 12th of August, 2010

Do I have to take a written CDL test or driving test when I renew my commercial license?

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A commercial drivers license (CDL) allows you to operate heavy motor vehicles (i.e. truck). You can also transport passengers (i.e. bus driver, van driver) at cost or free of charge after you gain your commercial license.

State Test Requirements for Commercial Driver License Renewal

Similar to how states require you to renew a regular drivers license, you must also renew your CDL. As a CDL driver and depending on the state you are licensed in, you might have to pass a written and/or a road CDL test to complete your license renewal process.

If your state Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) office requires that you test to renew your CDL, make sure that you study the CDL manual and take a CDL practice test based on material in the manual. This will increase your chances of passing any required exams.

Refer to the below chart to find out which state DMV offices mandate that you take and pass a written examination and a driver license road test in order to finish the renew license steps.

Yes No
Alabama
x
Only need if upgrading license.
Alaska
x
Arizona
x
Written for HAZMAT only.
Arkansas
x
Written for HAZMAT only
California
x
Colorado
x
Connecticut
x
Delaware
x
Florida
x
Georgia
x
Hawaii
x
Idaho
x
Illinois
x
Written test every other renewal period, road test if older than 74.
Indiana
x
Iowa
x
Written for HAZMAT only.
Kansas
x
Written for HAZMAT only.
Kentucky
x
Skills test might be required.
Louisiana
x
Maine
x
Maryland
x
Massachusetts
x
Michigan
x
Written for HAZMAT only.
Minnesota
x
Written for HAZMAT only.
Mississippi
x
Missouri
x
Montana
x
Nebraska
x
Nevada
x
New Hampshire
x
New Jersey
x
New Mexico
x
Written for HAZMAT only.
New York
x
North Carolina
x
North Dakota
x
Ohio
x
Oklahoma
x
Oregon
x
Written for HAZMAT only.
Pennsylvania
x
Written for HAZMAT only.
Rhode Island
x
South Carolina
x
Only for additional license endorsements.
South Dakota
x
Written for HAZMAT only.
Tennessee
x
Texas
x
Utah
x
Only for additional license endorsements.
Vermont
x
Written for HAZMAT only.
Virginia
x
Washington
x
Only for additional license endorsements.
West Virginia
x
Written for HAZMAT only.
Wisconsin Written for HAZMAT only.
Wyoming
x
Washington DC
x
Only for additional license endorsements.

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