CDL School Requirements at Commercial Driving Academy

Taking the first step toward a new career as a commercial driver is a major life-changing decision. You may be aiming for a position with stability, seeking a new professional path, or securing your financial future. Whatever your goal, CDA is here to help you achieve it. Keep reading for Commercial Driving Academy’s CDL school requirements and see how the truck driving school admission process is fast and straightforward.

Dedicated student counselors in South Carolina, Georgia, Illinois, Oklahoma, and New Mexico are here to guide you from your first question to your first day of class.

Why Admissions Policies Matter

CDA’s commitment to quality starts with the truck driving school admissions process. The programs maintain small, focused classes and actively prepare every enrolled student for success. Admissions standards are in place to guarantee you’ll receive the best training available in the Southeast and Midwest. This ensures you graduate with the confidence and skills the industry demands.

Federal DOT Standards and CDL School Requirements

To begin CDL training at Commercial Driving Academy, every applicant must meet both CDL school requirements and federal Department of Transportation (DOT) standards. These include age, education, driving record, and physical qualifications.

Driving Age Requirements

• 18 years of age or older for intrastate commercial driving (training and driving within a single state)
• 21 years of age or older for interstate commercial driving (crossing state lines). Most national carriers require drivers to be 21 or older

Educational & English Proficiency Requirements

All students must provide proof of one of the following:

• A high school diploma or a GED certificate

• English Language Proficiency: Students must be able to read, write, and speak English proficiently to understand instructions, safety protocols, complete coursework, and comply with all federal regulations

Driving Record Requirements

A clean driving record is essential for CDL training and employment. You will need to:

• Submit a current driving abstract from your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or Department of Public Safety (DPS)
• Provide proof of residency for the state in which you are applying
• Maintain a clear driving history with no major violations (e.g., DUIs or reckless driving)
• Disclose any previous license suspensions or revocations. The admissions team reviews each record individually

DOT Physical and Drug Screening Requirements

Your health and safety, and the public’s, are paramount. All students must meet federal medical and testing standards set by the DOT and the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). These CDL physical requirements confirm that every driver is medically fit to operate a commercial vehicle safely.

• Physical: You must pass a DOT Medical Examination conducted by a certified medical examiner
• Vision & Hearing: You must meet the federal standards for visual accuracy and hearing to ensure safety on the road
• Drug Screen: All students must be prepared to take and pass a federal drug test shortly after the course begins. Failure to pass will result in dismissal.

The CDA Admissions Process: 5 Simple Steps

The goal is to get you behind the wheel as quickly and efficiently as possible. CDA’s streamlined truck driving school admissions process helps qualified applicants meet all CDL school requirements quickly and begin training without delay.

Here is what to expect from your application timeline:

Step 1: CDL School Application & On-Site Interview

Fill out the form on this page or contact the admissions team at your preferred location. You can discuss your career goals, available class schedules, funding options, and the required documentation specific to your state.

Step 2: Documentation & Skills Assessment

Gather and submit your required documents (ID, driving abstract, DOT physical results, etc.). If you do not have a diploma or a GED, you’ll need to take a basic skills assessment.

Step 3: Review & Acceptance Decision

The team reviews all qualifications and verifies your documents to assess your fit and confirm your seat availability. You will get your acceptance decision quickly. If you are rejected, you will receive a full explanation, and you can always reapply after improving your qualifications.

Step 4: Orientation & Onboarding

Once accepted, you’ll attend a mandatory orientation, complete any outstanding requirements, such as the DOT physical and drug test, and receive your training schedule and course materials.

Step 5: Course Start

Your training sessions begin. As an Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT)-Certified school, your time at CDA fulfills all federal training requirements. The Class A and B CDL training covers both classroom knowledge and behind-the-wheel skills, preparing you to take your state’s CDL skills test.

Tuition Assistance Opportunities

One of the most common questions during the application process is about the cost of CDL training. At CDA, financial barriers don’t prevent you from starting a rewarding career. Students can qualify to begin training with zero out-of-pocket costs through various funding programs:

• WIOA: State-funded assistance through the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act
• VA Benefits: Educational benefits for veterans and eligible dependents
• In-House Financing: Flexible payment plans to fit your budget
• Carrier Sponsorships: Partner trucking companies may cover tuition costs in exchange for employment commitments

Dedicated admissions reps will help you explore every available option and guide you through the application process for these programs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What can disqualify you from getting a CDL?

FMCSA and the DOT have established comprehensive regulations governing driver eligibility. These official federal and state standards outline all factors that may lead to the denial of a Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) or CDL.

What are the requirements to get a CDL?

Requirements for drivers include being at least 21 years old (for interstate commerce), holding a valid CDL, passing a physical, completing ELDT, passing ongoing drug and alcohol tests, and maintaining compliance with Hours of Service (HOS) regulations.

What are the DOT physical requirements for a CDL?

The DOT physical requirements for a CDL include passing a medical exam conducted by a certified medical examiner. Drivers must meet federal standards for vision, hearing, blood pressure, and overall physical health to safely operate a commercial vehicle. These exams are typically valid for up to 24 months, depending on medical history and examiner recommendations.

If I’m denied admission, can I reapply?

Yes, absolutely! CDA encourages you to reapply as soon as you’ve improved the necessary qualification or fulfilled any missing CDL school requirements. Our student counselors are here to guide you on the next steps.

Your future on the road is waiting. Start the application process by filling out the form on this page or calling your local CDA campus today!