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

Getting a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) in Mississippi is a process that requires careful preparation, but with the right steps, it’s totally manageable. Here's a detailed, easy-to-understand guide on how to get your CDL in the Magnolia State.

Step 1: Meet the Basic Requirements

Before you can apply for a CDL in Mississippi, make sure you meet the following:

• Age: You need to be at least 18 years old to drive a commercial vehicle within Mississippi (intrastate) and 21 years old to drive across state lines (interstate) or transport hazardous materials.
• Regular Driver’s License: You must have a valid Mississippi Class D driver’s license.
• Residency: You’ll need to provide proof of Mississippi residency.

Step 2: Get a CDL Learner’s Permit

Before you can take the road skills test, you’ll need to get a CDL Learner’s Permit (CLP), which allows you to practice driving a commercial vehicle under the supervision of a licensed CDL holder. Here’s how you do it:

• Pass the Written Knowledge Tests: You’ll need to take and pass knowledge tests based on the class of CDL you’re applying for (Class A, B, or C) and any endorsements you want (like air brakes, passenger transport, or hazardous materials). Study the Mississippi CDL Manual carefully to prepare.
• Pass a Vision Test: Make sure your vision meets the required standards.
• Proof of Citizenship or Legal Presence: You’ll need to bring documents like a passport or birth certificate.
• Submit a Medical Certificate: You'll have to pass a DOT Medical Exam and submit a medical certificate from a licensed examiner to prove you’re physically fit to drive a commercial vehicle.

Once you’ve passed these tests, you’ll receive your CLP. This permit is valid for 180 days, giving you time to practice before taking the skills test.

Step 3: Complete Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT)

A key change to the CDL process that started in 2022 is the Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) requirement. Before you can take the CDL skills test, you must complete ELDT from an approved training provider. This training covers both theory (classroom) and behind-the-wheel instruction. Make sure the school or training center is listed on the FMCSA Training Provider Registry.

Step 4: Practice with Your CLP

Now that you have your learner’s permit, it’s time to practice driving a commercial vehicle. During this period, you must be supervised by a licensed CDL holder who is physically in the vehicle with you. Practice will help you become comfortable with the different aspects of driving a larger vehicle, including:

• Turning and maneuvering.
• Backing up.
• Shifting gears (if applicable).

Step 5: Take the CDL Skills Test

After you’ve practiced enough and completed your ELDT, the next step is to schedule and pass the CDL Skills Test at a Mississippi Department of Public Safety (DPS) location. The skills test consists of three parts:

1. Pre-trip Vehicle Inspection: You’ll need to demonstrate that you know how to inspect your vehicle for safety before driving.
2. Basic Vehicle Control: This test involves performing maneuvers such as backing up, turning, and parking.
3. On-road Driving Test: You’ll drive on public roads while being evaluated on your ability to obey traffic laws, drive safely, and control the vehicle.

You’ll need to provide your own vehicle for the test, and it must be the same class as the CDL you’re applying for (Class A, B, or C).

Step 6: Get Your CDL

Once you pass the skills test, you’ll return to the DPS office to get your CDL. You’ll need to:

• Pay the necessary fees.
• Submit your medical certificate again if needed.

Your CDL will be issued based on the class of vehicle you tested with and any endorsements you earned.

CDL Endorsements and Restrictions

When applying for a CDL, you may also want to add endorsements to your license, which allow you to drive specialized vehicles or transport certain types of cargo. Some common endorsements in Mississippi include:

• H: Hazardous materials (requires a background check and separate written test).
• P: Passenger transport (necessary for driving buses).
• S: School bus driver (you’ll need to pass specific tests and meet additional requirements).
• T: Double or triple trailers.
• N: Tank vehicles.

Additionally, if you take the skills test in a vehicle with an automatic transmission, you’ll have a restriction placed on your CDL that limits you to only driving automatic transmission commercial vehicles.

Step 7: Maintain Your CDL

Once you have your CDL, there are a few important things to remember:

• Medical Certificate: You’ll need to keep your medical certificate up to date. The DOT physical must be renewed every two years, unless your medical examiner says otherwise.
• Renewals: Your CDL will need to be renewed periodically, just like a regular driver’s license. Make sure to keep track of the expiration date to avoid any lapses.
• Compliance: If you drive interstate or transport hazardous materials, you’ll need to keep up with federal regulations as well as state laws.

Key Differences in Mississippi

One unique aspect of getting your CDL in Mississippi is that the state has relatively low fees compared to some other states, making it more affordable for aspiring commercial drivers. However, the testing and requirements are in line with federal standards, so the process is similar to what you’d find across the country.

Also, Mississippi follows the federal Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse regulations, which means that employers must check your driving history for drug and alcohol violations before you can be hired.

Getting your CDL in Mississippi involves several steps, from obtaining a learner’s permit to completing required training and passing the skills test. But with patience and preparation, you’ll soon be ready to hit the road as a fully licensed commercial driver. Whether you’re looking to drive a big rig, a school bus, or anything in between, Mississippi offers plenty of opportunities for CDL holders!