CDL Licensing

Idaho CDL Medical and Testing Requirements

3 min read

Obtaining a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) in Idaho involves meeting specific medical and testing standards set by both federal and state regulations. This guide outlines the essential requirements for medical certification and the testing process for CDL applicants in Idaho.

Medical Certification Requirements

Self-Certification Categories

All CDL applicants and holders in Idaho must self-certify their type of commercial driving with the Idaho Transportation Department (ITD). The four self-certification categories are:

Non-Excepted Interstate (NI): Operate across state lines and are required to meet federal DOT medical requirements.
Excepted Interstate (EI): Operate across state lines but are exempt from federal DOT medical requirements.
Non-Excepted Intrastate (NA): Operate only within Idaho and are required to meet state DOT medical requirements.
Excepted Intrastate (EA): Operate only within Idaho and are exempt from state DOT medical requirements.

Drivers can complete the self-certification process online at the ITD CDL Self-Certification Portal or in person at any County Driver’s License office.

DOT Medical Card Submission

Drivers who self-certify as Non-Excepted Interstate or Non-Excepted Intrastate must submit a valid DOT medical certificate. The certificate can be submitted via:

Email: [email protected]
Fax: (208) 334-8586
Mail:
Idaho Transportation Department
PO Box 7129
Boise, ID 83707-1129

Only the wallet-sized medical certificate is required; the long-form medical examiner’s report is not necessary. It's important to keep the medical certificate current to avoid CDL disqualification.

Testing Requirements

Knowledge Tests

Before obtaining a Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP), applicants must pass the following written knowledge tests:

General Knowledge Test
Combination Vehicles Test (for Class A CDL)
Air Brakes Test (if operating vehicles with air brakes)

Each test costs $5.00, and results are valid for one year. If a test is failed, it can be retaken after a three-day waiting period.

Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP)

After passing the required knowledge tests, applicants can obtain a CLP, which costs $29 and is valid for one year. The CLP allows the holder to practice driving a commercial vehicle under the supervision of a licensed CDL holder. Federal regulations require holding a CLP for at least 14 days before taking the skills test.

Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT)

As of February 7, 2022, applicants must complete Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) from a provider listed on the FMCSA’s Training Provider Registry before taking the skills test. More information is available at the FMCSA Training Provider Registry.

Skills Test

The skills test includes:

Pre-Trip Vehicle Inspection
Basic Vehicle Control
On-Road Driving Test

Applicants must provide a vehicle representative of the class of CDL they are testing for. The county DMV collects a $10 fee for the skills test, and the examiner may charge an additional fee payable at the time of testing.

Additional Resources

For more information on obtaining a CDL in Idaho, refer to the following resources:

For official information, visit the Idaho Transportation Department CDL page.