How to Get a CDL
Obtaining a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) in Nebraska involves several steps to ensure you meet both federal and state requirements. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you through the process:
Confirm Eligibility:
Age:
You must be at least 18 years old to drive commercially within Nebraska (intrastate) and 21 years old to drive commercially across state lines (interstate).
Driver's License:
Hold a valid driver's license.
Driving Record:
Ensure your driving record meets state standards, with no major violations.
Obtain a Department of Transportation (DOT) Medical Card:
IF you wish to drive out of the state. Schedule a physical examination with a certified medical examiner listed on the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners. Upon passing, you'll receive a Medical Examiner's Certificate, which you must provide to the Nebraska Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).
If you choose not to do this, your CDL will have a restriction stating you can only drive a Commercial Vehicle within the current state you are residing. (For Nebraska, this will be a K-Restriction) Once a DOT Physical is obtained and paperwork - long form and card are copied by the DMV, this restriction may be removed.
Complete Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT):
As of February 7, 2022, all new CDL applicants are required to complete ELDT from a training provider registered with the FMCSA's Training Provider Registry. - MIDWEST CDL TRAINING
This training includes both theory (classroom) and behind-the-wheel instruction.
The Entry Level Driver Training Theory portion may be completed with a Regular Valid Driver's License OR with or a Commercial Learners Permit.
Midwest CDL Training offers the ELDT Theory courses online for your convenience.
Midwest CDL Training recommends taking these classes as you study for your permit to assist you with visual instruction as well as the written information in the manual to assist you.
Once ELDT classes are completed, Midwest CDL Training will sign you off in the Federal Training Registry for you to continue in the process.
Obtain a Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP):
Go to your State DMV website and download the Commercial Driver's License Manual.
Study:
Prepare for the written knowledge tests by studying the Nebraska CDL Manual.
You will only study the specific chapters that pertain to the CDL you are wanting to obtain - located in the introduction.
Documentation: Gather necessary documents, including proof of U.S. citizenship or lawful status, such as birth certificate or passport, proof of residency, and your Social Security number.
Testing:
Visit a DMV office to take the required written tests for the CLP.
After you have obtained your CLP - Enroll in MIdwest CDL Training Program for your Behind-the-Wheel Instruction:
Contact Midwest CDL Training today and we can get you set on the right path!
Several Cost-Effective Training Packages are available based on your training needs.
All training is 1:1 and you only pay for the training hours you need!
We will train with our equipment or yours.
Once training is successfully completed Midwest CDL Training will sign you off on the Federal Training Registry in order for you to test.
Pass the CDL Skills Test:
Schedule the Test - with Midwest CDL Training
After holding your CLP for at least 14 days and completing your training, Midwest CDL Training will conduct your Skills Testing for your license.
Midwest CDL Training is able to provide testing to out-of-state licenses as well.
Test Components: The skills test includes a pre-trip vehicle inspection, basic control skills, and an on-road driving test.
Obtain Your CDL:
Upon passing the skills test, you'll be issued a CDL appropriate for the class of vehicle you're authorized to operate by the DMV.
For detailed information and resources, contact us!
By following these steps, you'll be well on your way to obtaining your CDL!
Testing should be state - Written Tests at DMV to Obtain Commercial Learners Permit.