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All about permit practice tests and CDL driver's licence in Georgia

Getting a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) in Georgia is a clear process, but there are specific steps you need to follow to make sure you're on the right track. Whether you're aiming to drive trucks, buses, or other commercial vehicles, here's a detailed guide that will help you understand how to get your CDL in Georgia.

1. Basic Eligibility Requirements

To start the process, make sure you meet the following basic criteria:

• Age: You must be at least 18 years old to drive within Georgia (intrastate). To drive across state lines (interstate commerce) or transport hazardous materials, you need to be 21 years old.
• Residency: You must be a legal resident of Georgia.
• Valid License: You must already hold a valid Georgia non-commercial driver’s license (Class C) before applying for a CDL.

2. Obtain a Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP)

The first step toward getting a CDL in Georgia is obtaining a Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP). Here’s how to do that:

• Step 1: Pass the Written Knowledge Tests
  • You’ll need to take and pass a series of written knowledge tests based on the type of CDL and endorsements you want. These tests cover general CDL knowledge, as well as any specific endorsements you might need (like air brakes, passenger transport, or hazardous materials).
  • You can prepare for these tests by studying the Georgia Commercial Driver’s Manual, which is available online through the Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS).
  • Note: If you're applying for a CDL with a passenger or school bus endorsement, you must pass the endorsement tests as well.
• Step 2: Submit the Required Documentation
  • Bring your current Georgia driver’s license, proof of U.S. citizenship or lawful presence, proof of Georgia residency, and your Social Security number to the DDS.
  • You must also pass a DOT medical exam and present a Medical Examiner’s Certificate (form MCSA-5876), which ensures that you meet the physical requirements to drive a commercial vehicle. This certificate must be from an FMCSA-certified medical examiner.
• Step 3: Pay the Fee
  • There’s a $10 fee to obtain your CLP, and the permit is valid for 180 days.

Once you have your CLP, you’re allowed to practice driving a commercial vehicle, but only under the supervision of a qualified CDL holder.

3. Training

While Georgia doesn't require CDL applicants to take formal training, it's highly recommended. Many employers require you to have completed a professional CDL training program, and it’s a great way to ensure you’re prepared for the road skills test. There are numerous truck driving schools across the state that offer training programs, ranging from a few weeks to a few months in length.

4. Wait the Mandatory Holding Period

By federal law, you must hold your CLP for a minimum of 14 days before you can take the CDL skills test. This gives you time to practice your driving skills with your learner’s permit.

5. Pass the CDL Skills Test

Once you’ve gained enough practice and held your CLP for at least 14 days, you can schedule your CDL Skills Test at a Georgia DDS testing location. The skills test consists of three parts:

1. Vehicle Inspection (Pre-trip inspection): You’ll need to demonstrate your knowledge of the vehicle’s systems and ensure it's safe to operate.
2. Basic Control Skills: This involves maneuvers like backing up, parallel parking, and other essential driving skills.
3. On-road Driving Test: You’ll drive a commercial vehicle in various traffic situations, demonstrating your ability to safely operate the truck or bus in real-world conditions.

• Bring Your Own Vehicle: You’re required to bring a vehicle appropriate for the class of CDL you're applying for (Class A, B, or C). If you don’t have access to one, many truck driving schools will allow you to rent a vehicle for the test.

6. Fees and Validity

The fee for the CDL skills test in Georgia is $50. After you pass, you’ll need to pay another $32 to receive your official CDL, which is valid for 8 years.

7. Endorsements

Depending on what type of commercial vehicle you plan to drive, you may need to obtain additional endorsements on your CDL. These endorsements require additional written tests and, in some cases, skills tests:

• H: Hazardous Materials (you must also undergo a TSA background check for this endorsement)
• N: Tank Vehicles
• P: Passenger Transport
• S: School Bus
• T: Double/Triple Trailers

Each endorsement requires you to pass an additional written test and pay an extra fee, typically $5 per endorsement.

8. Particularities in Georgia

• ELDT (Entry-Level Driver Training): As of February 7, 2022, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires drivers applying for a Class A or B CDL, or certain endorsements (like the passenger, school bus, or hazardous materials endorsements), to complete Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) from an approved training provider. This is a federal requirement that applies in Georgia as well.
• School Bus Drivers: If you want to drive a school bus in Georgia, you must obtain both a Passenger (P) and School Bus (S) endorsement. You’ll need to undergo additional training and pass specific tests for these endorsements.

9. Maintaining Your CDL

Once you have your CDL, make sure to keep it up to date. You’ll need to:

• Renew it every 8 years.
• Keep your Medical Examiner’s Certificate current (for those operating certain types of vehicles).
• Notify your employer of any traffic violations or changes in your medical status.

Getting your CDL in Georgia involves passing knowledge tests, getting your CLP, gaining driving experience, and passing a road skills test. Although it may seem like a lot, the process is designed to ensure that commercial drivers are safe and skilled on the road. Whether you’re aiming to drive a truck, bus, or other commercial vehicles, following these steps will help you navigate the process smoothly.