Colorado CDL Test Requirements and Endorsements

Learn the various types of CDLs
Become familiar with available courses
Find out what fees you will have to pay

Starting at

^$14⁹⁵

Earn a Commercial Driver's License

Are you interested in earning a Colorado commercial driver's license? Depending on your career or personal interests, you may benefit from obtaining a CDL. There are different steps and tests that must be completed in order for the process to be successful. Use this resourceful guide to gain a better understanding of what to expect at the DMV.

Available CDL Courses

Individual Courses:

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Who Needs a CDL?

If you plan on driving a Class A, B, or C commercial vehicle, then you legally need to obtain a Colorado commercial driver's license. To operate double/triple trailers, tanker vehicles, passenger vehicles and vehicles placarded for hazardous materials, you will need to earn various endorsements. The different CDLs available are:

Class A License - This license will allow you to operate combination vehicles with a Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR) exceeding 26,000 pounds, as long as the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of the vehicle being towed exceeds 10,000 pounds.
Class B License - You'll need this license if you wish to operate a single or combination vehicle where the GVWR of the single vehicle exceeds 26,000 pounds. The vehicle being towed must not weigh more than 10,000 pounds.
Class C License - This license was designed for vehicles used to transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver, as well as vehicles placarded for hazardous materials that do not meet the criteria for Class A or B.

The Skills Test

Before you can participate in the skills test, you will have to successfully pass a knowledge test. Once you've done this, your skills in the following areas will be judged: pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and on-road driving. The skills test will need to be completed in the vehicle in which you wish to obtain a license for.

Pre-Trip Vehicle Inspection - You will need to know if your vehicle is safe to drive. You'll be instructed to inspect your vehicle, as well as know what you're inspecting and why you're inspecting it.
Basic Vehicle Control - Can you control your vehicle? You will need to move your vehicle forward, backward, and turn it within a defined area. The examiner will give you specific instructions
On-Road Test - It's vital to be able to safely drive your vehicle in various traffic situations. These situations may include the following: left and right turns, intersections, railway crossings, and more.

Extra Requirements

Every two years, you will need to pass a physical examination. This examination will consist of testing your hearing and vision (with or without glasses or corrective lenses). CDL drivers are not permitted to be colorblind.

Going to the DMV

When you go to the DMV, you will need to take specific documents with you. These documents include: a current driver's license, a Department of Transportation Physical Examination Form, and a social security card.
Colorado ID and Required Documents

CDL Fees

Colorado Commercial Driver's License (CDL) - $35.00, valid for four years. Any license with a motorcycle endorsement will have a $2.00 surcharge added to the overall fee.
Colorado Instruction Permit - $14.00, valid for 1 (one) year from the date of issue unless there is a change in age group from minor to adult.

For current CDL licensing and endorsement fees visit the Colorado DMV.

Driver's License Info on Colorado's Official DMV website

Learn More

Colorado CDL Manual: Download the Colorado CDL Driver's Handbook

For Federal Requirements for a CDL: http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/registration-licensing/cdl/cdl.htm

For Medical Requirements for a CDL: http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/rules-regulations/administration/medical.htm