The validity of a CDL depends on the state you reside in. It may last from five to eight years. Keeping your License will likely require you to have a physical exam at least once a year to verify your health is sufficient for you to perform the duties of your career.
As with any personal license, the Commercial Driver’s License also expires after a period of time. In order to maintain your driving license, you must renew it on time.
If you’re planning to pursue a career in truck driving, you may be wondering, how long does a CDL last? A commercial driver’s license (CDL) is essential for operating large vehicles, such as buses and trucks, in the United States. The validity of this license depends on several factors, and it’s crucial to know the details to avoid any legal issues. In this guide, we’ll discuss the various types of CDLs, the duration of validity, and the renewal process.
Types of CDLs
Before we delve into the validity period of CDLs, let’s take a quick look at the different types of CDLs. The three types of CDL are:
Class A: This CDL is necessary for drivers operating combination vehicles with a weight of 26,001 pounds (ca. 11,794 kg) or more.
Class B: This CDL is required for drivers operating single vehicles with a weight of 26,001 pounds (ca. 11,794 kg) or more.
Class C: This CDL is necessary for drivers transporting hazardous materials or more than 16 passengers.
Duration of CDL Validity
The validity of a CDL depends on various factors such as the age of the driver, the type of vehicle, and the state regulations. In general, a CDL is valid for five years from the date of issuance. However, if the driver is above 21 years of age, the CDL is valid for up to eight years. Moreover, if the driver is below 21 years of age, the CDL is valid for up to two years.
Renewing a CDL
It’s essential to renew your CDL before it expires to avoid any legal consequences. The renewal process depends on state regulations. But in general, you need to pass a medical examination and a knowledge test. You may also need to take a driving test if your CDL has expired for more than two years.
To renew your CDL, you need to provide proof of identity, such as a driver’s license, and proof of residency. You also need to provide your social security number and a valid medical certificate. If you’re applying for the hazardous material endorsement, you need to provide additional documentation.
It’s crucial to note that if you’re driving a vehicle with an expired CDL, you may face serious penalties, such as fines, license suspension, and even jail time. Therefore, it’s important to keep track of your CDL’s expiration date and renew it on time.
If your CDL expires on the road?
If your license expires while you are on the road. For this, you will not be able to legally operate a commercial vehicle. It’s crucial to renew your CDL before it expires to avoid any legal consequences. Driving a commercial vehicle with an expired license is under consideration as a serious offense, and you may face penalties such as fines, license suspension, and even jail time. It’s also significant to note that your employer may face penalties if they allow you to operate a commercial vehicle with an expired CDL. Therefore, it’s crucial to keep track of your CDL’s expiration date and renew it on time. If you’re unable to renew your CDL before it expires, you should stop driving and seek assistance from the nearest DMV office.
Some people may wonder,
Is it possible to drive with an expired license?
No, you cannot drive with an expired license. It’s illegal to operate a vehicle with an expired driver’s license, including both commercial and non-commercial vehicles. Driving with an expired license is considered a serious offense and can lead to penalties such as fines, license suspension, and even jail time. It’s important to renew your driver’s license before it expires to avoid any legal consequences. If your license has already expired, you should not drive and seek assistance from the nearest DMV office.
Driving with an expired license also voids your auto insurance policy, which means that you will not be covered in the event of an accident. Therefore, it’s crucial to keep track of your license’s expiration date and renew it on time.
Providing proof of a driver’s license could be required by the court, which means you will have to adhere to a certain court date. In addition, your license could be suspended, insurance premiums may increase, or you may be subjected to other penalties. So stay on top of things and get your license renewed on time! It should be a simple process and can save you a lot of frustration.
Driving with a suspended license dismissed.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the validity of a CDL depends on various factors such as the type of vehicle, the driver’s age, and the state regulations. Generally, a CDL is valid for five years, but it can be up to eight years for drivers above 21 years of age. To renew your CDL, you need to pass a medical examination and a knowledge test and provide proof of identity, residency, and medical certification. Always remember to renew your CDL on time to avoid any legal issues. We hope this guide has answered your question, about how long does a CDL last, and provided you with valuable information about CDLs.