The Process For Obtaining A CDL Allentown

By Amie Mckenzie


Getting a CDL Allentown requires applicants to take more steps than they would take, to obtain a regular driver's license. In addition to passing a DOT physical examination, drivers must be twenty-one years of age or older, before they participate in interstate commerce. To obtain the CDL, drivers must take a series of knowledge tests, along with a road driving test.

A commercial license is required to operate certain types of vehicles. Any vehicle with over 26,000 pounds of hauling capacity, or any vehicle designed to carry more than fifteen passengers, requires a commercial license. Also, any vehicle which is required to be placarded, because of hazardous chemicals, must be driven by someone with a commercial license.

Getting a CDL begins with a series of knowledge tests. Every applicant must take the General Knowledge Test, but other tests are taken, depending on the vehicle that the driver wishes to operate. Other tests include Doubles/Triples, School Bus, Tankers. Combination Vehicles, Passenger Transport, Hazardous Materials, and Air Brakes.

Applicants will have to take a road driving test. The first component of the test is the Pre-Trip Inspection, during which applicants explain to an examiner how to inspect a vehicle, and why each step is taken. The next component, Basic Vehicle Control, will require drivers to move the vehicle forward and backward, and to turn the vehicle within a defined area.

On-Road Driving is the final test. Examiners will place drivers in multiple driving scenarios, which may include single or multi-lane roads, highways or streets, railroad crossings, intersections, grades, curves, and right and left turns. Drivers will be asked to follow a list of directions issued by the examiner, to show competence and readiness.

CDL operators must adhere to certain regulations. Drivers have thirty days to notify their employers if they receive a traffic violation, in any type of vehicle. Also, drivers have thirty days to notify the state motor vehicle licensing agency, if they receive any out-of-state traffic violations. Drivers have one day to notify employers if their CDL is revoked, canceled, disqualified, or suspended. Additionally, no driver may carry multiple CDLs, from any states.

Drivers who are at least eighteen years of age, and have a valid driver's license, may start learning to drive commercial vehicles. While drivers hold a learning permit, they may not participate in interstate commerce, or transport passengers. Also, a qualified CDL-holder must ride inside the vehicle with the learner, at all times. Drivers may start the testing process after six months, to get the CDL Allentown. Read more about: cdl Allentown




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