Idaho CDL Information
A commercial driver’s license (CDL) is one of the first steps to a great-paying career as a commercial truck driver. However, in order to drive a commercial vehicle (CMV) in Idaho, you must first obtain an Idaho CDL. Drivers Legal Plan, the Nation’s Leading CDL Defense Law Firm, has summarized many of the steps and requirements for obtaining your CDL in Idaho.
Please note that your state and the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regularly update these CDL requirements. Please visit the Idaho DMV Page on the Idaho Transportation Department website and the FMCSA website for the most authoritative and up-to-date information regarding CDL requirements and processes.
Effective February 7, 2022, all drivers applying for a new CDL, applying to upgrade an existing CDL to a higher class, or applying for an S, P, or H endorsement for the first time must complete entry-level driver training (ELDT). Those applying for endorsements and/or upgrades must complete the ELDT specific to their selected class of CDL or type of endorsement.
To meet requirements, the ELDT must be provided by an organization approved by the Federal Motor Carriers Safety Administration (FMSCA). For a list of approved Idaho training providers, check the FMCSA website.
The state of Idaho classifies commercial vehicles as any vehicle weighing more than 26,000 pounds, designed to carry 16 or more passengers, or used to transport hazardous materials. Anyone driving a vehicle within this classification is required to have a CDL. The only exceptions to this are emergency responders and military personnel. Additionally, vehicles used for personal transport or recreation are exempt.
Idaho allows drivers to apply for a seasonal CDL specifically for agriculture and harvest needs. Applicants for a seasonal CDL must be at least 16 years old and have one year of driving experience. Seasonal CDL holders may only operate class B or C commercial vehicles and must use the vehicle within 150 miles of the farm. Seasonal CDLs are only good for up to 180 days.
The state of Idaho classifies commercial vehicles as follows:
Class A: any combination of vehicles with a gross combined weight of 26,001 pounds or more, with trailers weighing 10,000 pounds or more.
Class B: any single vehicle with a gross weight of 26,001 pounds or more, or any such vehicle towing another vehicle weighing 10,000 pounds or less.
Class C: any vehicle or combination of vehicles that does not meet the Class A or Class B definition, that is designed to transport 16 or more passengers, or is intended to transport hazardous materials.
Remember, the most important thing to remember when you receive a ticket is that you should never just pay the ticket or the court fees without first talking to a legal representative who understands trucking laws. While you want to maintain a clean driving record, unforeseen violations can happen. When they do, you need expert legal protection. Drivers Legal Plan, the Nation's Leading CDL Defense Law Firm, is ready to defend your rights and your career.