North Dakota 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 North Dakota, you must first obtain a North Dakota 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 North Dakota.
Please note that your state and the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regularly update these CDL requirements. Please visit the North Dakota Department of Transportation (NDDOT) website and the FMCSA website for the most authoritative and up-to-date information regarding CDL requirements and processes.
NOTE: Effective April 21, 2025, per Federal Regulation, North Dakota Driver’s License will no longer be able to accept medical examiner certificates, and the requirement will be for nationally certified medical examiners to upload the certificate electronically. Please visit the Commercial | NDDOT website and review the Medical Certificate Requirements for complete information.
To qualify for your commercial driver’s license (CDL) in North Dakota, you will be required to meet both the federal regulations for commercial drivers as well as those specific to North Dakota residents. Federal requirements specify that all applicants for a CDL or commercial learner’s permit (CLP) must:
Minimum Qualifications for CDL Applicants
- Have a valid non-commercial driver’s license
- Have at least one year of driving experience
- Be at least 18 years old to drive within your state of residence, and at least 21 to drive out of state or transport hazardous materials
- Provide proof of citizenship or lawful permanent residence
- Be able to speak and read English efficiently
- Pass a DOT physical and provide a DOT medical card
- Pass all required background checks
In addition to the above requirements, your driving record must be in good standing with no disqualifications currently on your record. Below are some of the requirements as well as helpful information for commercial drivers in North Dakota.
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.