Georgia CDL Test Requirements and Endorsements
- Learn the various types of CDLs
- Become familiar with different courses
- Know what requirements must be met
Gain a CDL
If you want to earn your Georgia commercial driver's license, then you've come to the right place. This guide will allow you to become familiar with the various steps that need to be taken in order for you to gain a CDL. You will have to successfully pass a knowledge test, followed by a skills test.
Available CDL Courses
Individual Courses:
- General Knowledge
- Air Brakes
- Combination Vehicles
- Doubles/Triples
- Hazardous Materials
- School Bus
- Passenger Transport
- Pre-trip Inspection
- Tankers
Sign Up Now - Instant Access
You May Need a CDL
If you're going to operate a Class A, B, or C commercial vehicle, then it's a must to obtain a Georgia commercial driver's license. Further endorsements are required to work with the following: double/triple trailers, tanker vehicles, passenger vehicles, and vehicles placarded for hazardous materials. If you wish to operate a commercial vehicle in one of the following classifications, a Georgia CDL Endorsement will be needed:
- Class A License - You will need this license to operate a combination vehicle with a Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR) that exceeds 26,000 pounds, but only if the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of the vehicle being towed is more than 10,000 pounds.
- Class B License - Obtain this license to operate single or combination vehicles when the GVWR of the single vehicle exceeds 26,000 pounds. The vehicle in tow cannot be over 10,000 pounds.
- Class C License - This license is for drivers operating a vehicle designed to carry 16 people or more, including the driver, as well as vehicles placarded for hazardous materials that do not meet the criteria for Class A or B.
CDL Skills Test
You will be permitted to take the skills test, but only after you successfully pass a knowledge test. During this skills test, you will be graded on the following: pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and on-road driving. The test must be conducted in the vehicle in which you are trying to earn a license for.
- Pre-Trip Vehicle Inspection - Your ability to know if your vehicle is safe to drive will be tested. You will be asked what to inspect and why.
- Basic Vehicle Control - Can you control your vehicle? During this test, you will have to move your vehicle forward, backward, and turn within a defined area.
- On-Road Test - It's important to be able to safely drive your vehicle in various traffic situations. These situations may include: left and right turns, intersections, railway crossings, curves, and more.
Other CDL Requirements
A person 18 to 21 may obtain a CDL, but will only be permitted to drive in the State of Georgia. After a driver's 21st birthday, this restriction can be lifted. You will also have to pass a physical every two years that will consist of testing your hearing and vision. Drivers cannot be colorblind.
Documents for the DMV
When going to the DMV, you will need your current driver's license and your social security card.
Georgia ID and Required Documents
The DMV Fees
The application fee for a CDL is $35.00. However, there is no fee for veterans or school bus drivers. Fees may change according to the specific county you reside in. For a current list of fees, visit the Georgia DDS.
Driver's License Info on Georgia's Official DMV website
Learn Even More
Georgia CDL Manual: Download Georgia CDL Driver's Handbook
For Federal Requirements for a CDL: http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/registration-licensing/cdl/cdl.htm
For Medical Requirements for a CDL: http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/rules-regulations/administration/medical.htm