Connecticut CDL Test Requirements and CDL Endorsement Test Info

Do I Need A Commercial Driver License?

If you live in Connecticut and drive a Class A, B or C commercial vehicle, you must have an Connecticut Commercial Driver License (CDL).

CDL Endorsements are required for double/triple trailers, tanker vehicles, passenger vehicles and vehicles placarded for hazardous materials.

What Tests Do I Need To Take?

Don't know which endorsement you need? Just answer this question:

To operate a commercial vehicle in one of the following classifications, you must have an Connecticut CDL Endorsement.

Class A License - Combination Vehicles. Any combination of vehicles with gross combination weight rating (GCWR) of 26,001 or more pounds falls in Class A, providing the gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of the vehicle(s) being towed is in excess of 10,000 pounds.

Class B License - Heavy Straight Vehicles. Any single vehicle with a GVWR of 26,001 or more pounds, or any such vehicle towing another vehicle of no more than 10,000 pounds GVWR, falls in Class B.

Class C License - Vehicles designed to transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver, and vehicles placarded for hazardous materials, that do not meet the criteria for Class A or B above fall under this classification.

About the CDL Knowledge Tests

The general knowledge test, which must be taken by all CDL applicants, consists of 30 questions (you can get no more than six incorrect). Each endorsement test includes 10 questions (you can get no more than two incorrect).

An applicant must pass the general knowledge test before a skills test can be scheduled. Skills tests are made by appointment only.

Skills Tests

An operator is required to take a skills test if he/she currently holds a:
- non-commercial license and wishes to obtain a CDL.
- CDL "C" and wishes to obtain a CDL "B" or "A".
- CDL "B" and wishes to obtain a CDL "A".
- CDL and wishes to obtain a "P" Endorsement.
- CDL and wishes to remove an "Air Brake Restriction".

You will be evaluated on the following items:

Failure of any part of the skills test will result in a failure of the entire skills test. If you fail you will be required to go back to the office where you took your knowledge/endorsement tests and pay $30 to take the test again. There is a minimum seven-day waiting period between skills tests.

What Are The Other Requirements For A CDL?

Applicants must:

The main physical requirements include good hearing, 20/40 vision with or without glasses or corrective lenses, and a 70-degree field of vision in each eye. Drivers must not be colorblind.

What Should I Bring To The Department Of Motor Vehicles?

Note: If you are not a citizen of the United States, you will be required to show proof of your legal status in this country.

What Fees Will I Have To Pay?

General Knowledge Test: $16

Endorsement Tests (each): $5

Skills Test: $30

CDIP, New: $10

CDIP, Modify: No Fee

CDL, Upgrade: $17

CDL, Modify: No Fee

Where Can I Get More Information?

To download the Connecticut CDL Manual: http://www.ct.gov/dmv/cwp/view.asp?a=837&Q=245446&dmvPNavCtr=|28069|&dmvPNavCtr=|41639|41650|#28279

For federal requirements for a CDL: http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/safetyprogs/cdl.htm

For medical requirements: http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/rulesregs/fmcsr/regs/391.43.htm

Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles: http://www.ct.gov/dmv/site/default.asp

Connecticut Department of Transportation: http://www.ct.gov/dot/site/default.asp

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