A Commercial Driver's License (CDL) is required in California to operate commercial motor vehicles over 26,000 lbs GVWR, buses carrying 16 or more passengers, or vehicles placarded for hazardous materials. California CDL fees start at $70 for a 5-year license. Three CDL classes are available: Class A for tractor-trailer combinations, Class B for single large vehicles, and Class C for passenger and HazMat vehicles. First-time applicants must complete Entry Level Driver Training (ELDT) through an FMCSA-registered provider before taking the skills test. All interstate CDL holders must maintain a valid DOT Medical Certificate. Test your knowledge with the California CDL knowledge test, then pass the skills test — pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and road driving — to earn your license.
Any combination of vehicles with a GCWR of 26,001 lbs or more, provided the GVWR of the towed vehicle exceeds 10,000 lbs.
Any single vehicle with a GVWR of 26,001 lbs or more, or any such vehicle towing a vehicle with a GVWR not exceeding 10,000 lbs.
Any single vehicle or combination not covered by Class A or B, designed to transport 16 or more passengers including the driver, or required to be placarded for hazardous materials.
TSA security threat assessment and fingerprinting required. H endorsement valid for 5 years.
Required for operating tank vehicles transporting liquids or gases in bulk.
Required for buses carrying 16 or more passengers including the driver.
Requires P endorsement. California requires additional school bus driver certification through CHP.
Required for double or triple trailer operations. Class A CDL required.
Combination H and N; TSA background check required.
Entry Level Driver Training (ELDT) is required per 49 CFR Part 380 for first-time Class A or B applicants and H, P, or S endorsements. Complete training through an FMCSA-registered provider in the Training Provider Registry at tpr.fmcsa.dot.gov before scheduling your skills test.
Find a registered ELDT provider in California →Interstate CDL holders must hold a valid DOT Medical Examiner's Certificate from an FMCSA-certified examiner. The MEC is valid for up to 24 months. Submit your medical certificate self-certification to the California DMV. California-only intrastate drivers may qualify for a medical exemption under CVC 34501.5.
Find an FMCSA-certified medical examiner →Apply at a California DMV office with proof of identity, Social Security Number, and California residency. Pass the knowledge tests (Class A: General Knowledge, Air Brakes, Combination Vehicles), complete ELDT training, then schedule and pass the skills test. Fee is approximately $70.
Drayage drivers serving the Ports of LA/Long Beach must register their trucks with the Clean Truck Program and comply with CARB emissions standards. A Class A CDL is required for container chassis operations. Check the California Air Resources Board website for current requirements.
California CDLs are valid for 5 years. Your DOT Medical Certificate must be renewed separately — typically every 24 months for most interstate drivers.
Yes, California issues CDLs to drivers 18 and older for intrastate (within California) operation. Interstate driving in CMVs requires being at least 21 under federal regulations. Check FMCSA's under-21 pilot program for any current exceptions.
Yes. Fuel tankers are HazMat vehicles requiring at minimum a Class B CDL with N (tank) and H (hazmat) endorsements. If the tanker is over 26,001 lbs GCWR and towing, a Class A CDL is typically required.
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California CDL fee is based on a $5/year rate for a 5-year license (approximately $70 for Class A/B). Verify current amounts at dmv.ca.gov. Knowledge test is included in the application fee. Skills test fees vary by location.
Disclaimer
The information on this page is compiled from publicly available government sources and is provided for general informational purposes only. TruckRadar is an independent search engine — we are not affiliated with any government agency and this content does not constitute legal or compliance advice. Regulations change frequently; always verify current requirements directly with the official source before making compliance decisions.
Official source: California CA Official DMVLast reviewed: April 8, 2026