How To Get An Idaho CDL License

There are many reasons why people need to obtain a CDL license in Idaho. The Commercial Driver’s License program in Idaho was designed and created to help keep the roadways safe while also meeting certain federal requirements for commercial drivers. Below will be all the information you need to understand what exactly goes into getting your CDL license.

Who Needs A CDL License
There are different types of vehicles that require the driver having an Idaho CDL in order to operate the vehicle legally. If you are driving a vehicle that weighs more than 26,001 pounds, whether it is one single vehicle or a truck towing a unit, then you need a commercial driver’s license.

There are, however, some exemptions from commercial driver’s license requirements. These can include recreational use of large vehicles, military vehicles, emergency vehicles and farm vehicles. Each of these exemptions have specific regulations in order for them to qualify to be exempt.

Types of CDL License Classes
There are three different kinds of classes for commercial licenses. They are Class A, B and C. If a vehicle fails to fall in one of these classes, then it will be considered Class D. Class D is a non-commercial license.

Class A- This class is for combination vehicles with a gross combined weight of more than 26,001 pounds, as long as the towed vehicle weighs more than 10,000 pounds itself. For driver’s with Class A licenses, they may also operate Class B, C and D licenses with the proper endorsements.

Class B- This class is for single vehicles that weigh more than 26,001 pounds alone, or any vehicle that is towing a load that weighs less than 10,000 pounds. For drivers with Class B licenses, they may also operate vehicles needing Class C and D licenses with the correct endorsements.

Class C- This class is for operation of commercial vehicles that weigh less than 26,001 pounds. This class is also strictly for those vehicles that are made to carry more than 16 passengers at a time. Drivers with Class C licenses may also operate vehicles that need a Class D license.

Requirements and Process of Obtaining a CDL License
If you would like to apply for a commercial driver’s license, there are some requirements that need to be met. The first requirement is that you be 18 years of age and have a valid Class D (non-commercial) license for the state of Idaho. You need at least one year of driving experience with a Class D license in order to apply for a CDL. To prepare for the test, you may pick of a manual from your local county driver’s license office to study. Information about the skills necessary to pass the test will also be included with it.

Along with your current license, you will also need to bring your Social Security card, proof of Idaho residency and money for the fees. After you state the purpose of wanting a commercial license, you will have your driving record checked. You will also need to pass both written and visual tests. Once these are taken, fees are collected and your record checked, you will be able to set up an appointment to take your skills test.

There are three parts to the skills test: the vehicle inspection, a basic controls test and a driving test. All three parts of the test will take from two to three hours. The test must be taken in a vehicle that fits the type of vehicle you wish to have a CDL license for.

Once you pass the skills test, you will be able to obtain your temporary CDL from the County DMV. You will be sent your permanent license through the mail. Be very sure that you have your current mailing address on file. All CDL tests remain valid for a year. If you do not obtain your license within one year, you must retake all of the tests and pay the fees again. If you fail any of the tests, you must wait three days to retake them and you must also repay the fees in this instance as well.

Idaho CDL License Training
There are many schools in Idaho that offer training for obtaining your commercial driver’s license. Choosing the right school is important because it can set the path for your future. When searching for a school, be sure to look into their instructor-to-student ratio and job placement statistics. The quality of the instructors is also very important. They should be knowledgeable, experienced, caring and capable of teaching. Depending on the school that you choose, the cost could vary greatly. When you are comparing different schools, find out why their prices are what they are and ask them if they can explain any differences between their school and local competitors.

Idaho CDL License Cost
•CDL License (4 Year) $40
•CDL Duplicate or Permit $15
•CDL Instruction Permit $29
•Endorsement Addition (after issuance of CDL) $15
•License Upgrade $25
•Written Tests $3 each
•Skills Test $70 ($10 to the Driver’s License Office and $60 to the Skills Test Giver)