Should states be means tested before being allowed to issue CDL license?
I’m sure you’ve read or seen where the undocumented are being involved in these crashes and some are even causing multiple deaths. Estimates are that 130,000 illegals have A CDL License.
Federal CDL Requirements (What Every State Must Follow)
🧠 1. Knowledge Tests
Every CDL applicant must pass written knowledge exams appropriate to the class of CDL and any endorsements they want (hazmat, tanker, school bus, etc.).
🛠️ 2. Skills Test
Applicants must pass a three‑part skills test administered by the state:
Vehicle inspection
Basic control
Road test
These tests must match the type of vehicle the driver intends to operate.
🩺 3. Medical Requirements
Drivers must meet federal medical standards, including:
Passing a DOT physical
Holding a valid Medical Examiner’s Certificate
FMCSA requires CDL holders to meet higher physical standards than regular drivers.
🏠 4. Residency Requirements
Applicants must prove state residency and obtain a CDL from their home state.
It is illegal to hold CDLs from more than one state.
🚛 5. Training Requirements (ELDT)
As of 2022, new CDL applicants must complete Entry‑Level Driver Training (ELDT) from an FMCSA‑approved provider before taking the skills test (not in the search results, but part of current federal law — I can cite if you want).
🧾 6. Age Requirements
18+ for intrastate (within one state)
21+ for interstate (crossing state lines) or hauling hazmat
(Not in the search results, but part of federal CDL law — I can cite if you want.)
🧩 7. CDL Classes
FMCSA recognizes three CDL classes, each requiring different tests and qualifications
States Found Violating Federal CDL Requirements
New York
Minnesota
Pennsylvania
California
