New York 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 New York, you must first obtain a New York 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 New York.

Please note that your state and the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regularly update these CDL requirements. Please visit the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) website and the FMCSA website for the most authoritative and up-to-date information regarding CDL requirements and processes.

To apply for your commercial driver’s license (CDL) in the state of New York, you must not currently hold a CDL in any other state. If you do, you will be required to surrender your current license at the time you begin the application process. There are state requirements that are specific to New York that must be met, as well as the federal regulations overseen by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). All drivers seeking to apply for a CDL should be familiar with both. Federal regulations may vary slightly from year to year, but in general, to meet the requirements for applying for a commercial driver’s license, you must:

Steps to Obtain a CDL

• Be at least 18 years of age to drive within your state of residence, and 21 years of age to drive outside of your state or transport hazardous materials
• Provide identification and Social Security verification according to your state’s requirements
• Provide proof of state and U.S. residency
• Submit a completed Medical Exam Report Form and Medical Examiner’s Certificate Form
• Pass a vision test
• Apply for and carry your commercial learner’s permit for at least 14 days
• Pass both the knowledge exam and the road skills and driving exam within your state

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.