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CDL Licensing

Obtaining a Commercial Driver's License in Kentucky

3 min read

Securing a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) in Kentucky involves meeting specific eligibility criteria, completing required training, and passing both knowledge and skills tests. This guide outlines the necessary steps and considerations for prospective commercial drivers in the state.

Eligibility Requirements

To apply for a CDL in Kentucky, applicants must:

  • Age: Be at least 18 years old for intrastate driving; 21 years old for interstate driving, transporting hazardous materials, or carrying passengers.
  • Residency: Hold a valid Kentucky driver's license and provide proof of U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent residency.
  • Medical Certification: Obtain a Medical Examiner's Certificate from a certified medical examiner.
  • Driving Record: Submit a 10-year driving history if previously licensed in another state.
  • Language Proficiency: Demonstrate the ability to read and speak English sufficiently to converse with the public, understand traffic signs and signals, respond to official inquiries, and make entries on reports and records.

Application Process

  1. Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP):

    • Submit a completed CDL application.
    • Provide proof of identity, residency, and Social Security number.
    • Pass the required knowledge tests for the desired CDL class and endorsements.
    • Hold the CLP for a minimum of 14 days before taking the skills test.

  2. Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT):

    • Complete ELDT from a registered training provider for:
      • First-time Class A or B CDL applicants.
      • Upgrading an existing Class B to a Class A CDL.
      • Obtaining endorsements for hazardous materials (H), passenger (P), or school bus (S).

  3. Skills Test:

    • Schedule and pass the three-part skills test: pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and on-road driving.
    • Tests are administered by the Kentucky State Police or authorized third-party testers.

CDL Classes and Endorsements

  • Class A: Combination vehicles with a gross combination weight rating (GCWR) of 26,001 pounds or more, provided the towed vehicle is over 10,000 pounds.
  • Class B: Single vehicles with a GCWR of 26,001 pounds or more, or towing a vehicle not exceeding 10,000 pounds.
  • Class C: Vehicles not meeting Class A or B definitions but designed to transport 16 or more passengers or hazardous materials.

Endorsements:

  • H: Hazardous materials
  • N: Tank vehicles
  • P: Passenger transport
  • S: School bus
  • T: Double/triple trailers
  • X: Combination of tank vehicle and hazardous materials

Fees

  • CDL Application Fee: $24.00
  • CLP Permit Fee: $11.00
  • CDL License Fee: $88.00
  • Skills Test Fee: $50.00 (retest fee)
  • Endorsement Fees: Vary by endorsement; additional fees may apply.

For a detailed breakdown of fees, visit the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet's Pricing Page.

Additional Resources

For more information on Kentucky's CDL requirements and processes, consider the following resources:

Ensure all applications and documents are submitted accurately to avoid delays in the licensing process.