FREE Practice test for WV CDL driver's licence - West Virginia exam simulation

Select the test you want to start!

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

To get your Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) in West Virginia, you’ll need to follow a series of steps to ensure you meet both state and federal requirements. Whether you’re aiming to drive trucks, buses, or other commercial vehicles, the process is designed to make sure you're fully prepared for the road. Here's a breakdown of how to get your CDL in West Virginia:

Step 1: Meet the Basic Requirements

Before diving into the process, make sure you meet the following basic criteria:

• Age: You must be at least 18 years old to drive within West Virginia (intrastate). If you plan to drive across state lines (interstate), transport hazardous materials, or operate a vehicle carrying 16 or more passengers, you’ll need to be at least 21 years old.
• Residency: You need to be a legal resident of West Virginia.
• Driver’s License: You must already have a valid West Virginia Class D driver’s license.
• Driving Record: You should have a clean driving record, with no serious traffic violations, DUIs, or suspensions in recent years.

Step 2: Obtain a CDL Learner’s Permit

Before getting your full CDL, you'll need a Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP). This allows you to practice driving a commercial vehicle under supervision. Here’s how to get it:

1. Study for the CDL Knowledge Tests: To get your CLP, you'll need to pass a series of written knowledge tests based on the type of CDL you want (Class A, B, or C) and any endorsements (such as for hazardous materials, passenger transport, or tank vehicles). The tests cover general knowledge, air brakes, and combination vehicles, among other topics. You can prepare by studying the West Virginia CDL Manual, which you can get from the DMV or online.
2. Submit a Medical Examination: You’ll need to get a DOT medical exam and submit the Medical Examiner's Certificate to prove you're physically fit to drive a commercial vehicle. You must visit a doctor listed on the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners.
3. Apply for the CLP: Visit your local West Virginia DMV and bring:
   • Your current driver’s license.
   • Proof of identity and residency (such as a birth certificate or utility bill).
   • Your completed medical exam form.
   • Payment for the CLP fee (around $25-$30).
   You’ll then take the required knowledge tests. Once you pass, you’ll receive your CLP, which is valid for 180 days. You must hold the CLP for at least 14 days before taking the skills test for your full CDL.

Step 3: Practice with Your CLP

With your CLP in hand, you can now practice driving a commercial vehicle, but only with a CDL holder sitting next to you. This practice period is essential for preparing for the skills test, so take the time to become comfortable behind the wheel. You’ll need to practice maneuvers such as:

• Straight-line backing.
• Parallel parking.
• Performing safe turns and lane changes.

Step 4: Take the CDL Skills Test

Once you’ve held your CLP for at least 14 days and feel confident in your driving skills, it’s time to schedule your CDL Skills Test. The skills test consists of three parts:

1. Pre-trip Inspection: You’ll need to demonstrate that you know how to check the commercial vehicle’s key components, including brakes, lights, tires, and fluid levels.
2. Basic Vehicle Control: You’ll be tested on your ability to control the vehicle, including backing, turning, and parking in tight spaces.
3. On-Road Driving: This portion tests your ability to drive in real-world conditions, following traffic laws, safely merging, making turns, and driving in various traffic scenarios.

The test is typically conducted at a West Virginia DMV or an approved third-party testing site. Make sure to bring your own vehicle that matches the class of CDL you're applying for.

Step 5: Submit Final Documents and Get Your CDL

After passing the skills test, you’ll return to the DMV to complete the final steps. Bring:

• Your passing skills test results.
• Your CLP and driver’s license.
• Proof of residency and identity (just like when you applied for your CLP).

You’ll pay the CDL issuance fee (usually around $50-$60, depending on endorsements), and your full CDL will be issued.

Additional Information:

• Endorsements: Depending on what kind of commercial vehicle you want to drive, you may need additional endorsements. For example:
  • Hazardous Materials (H): Requires passing a written test and a background check.
  • Passenger (P): For vehicles carrying 16 or more passengers.
  • Tanker (N): For operating vehicles that carry liquids in bulk.
  • School Bus (S): Requires specific training and tests for driving a school bus.
  Make sure to study for these endorsement tests and apply for them when you get your CDL.
• CDL Restrictions: If you take your CDL test in an automatic vehicle, you’ll have a restriction that prevents you from driving manual transmission commercial vehicles. So, if you plan to drive a manual vehicle, make sure to test in one.

Special Considerations:

• Military CDL Waivers: If you have experience driving commercial vehicles in the military, you may be eligible for a skills test waiver, which allows you to skip the CDL skills test. However, you’ll still need to pass the knowledge tests.
• Medical Restrictions: If you have certain medical conditions, you may be subject to additional restrictions or require periodic medical evaluations to maintain your CDL.

Getting your CDL in West Virginia takes time and effort, but it's worth it if you're planning to drive commercially. With the right preparation, practice, and focus, you’ll be on the road in no time. Just remember to take your time studying, practice as much as possible with your CLP, and don’t hesitate to take a CDL training course if you feel it would help.