A Commercial Driver's License (CDL) is required in Indiana to operate commercial motor vehicles over 26,000 lbs GVWR, buses carrying 16 or more passengers, or vehicles placarded for hazardous materials. Indiana CDL fees start at $42 for a 4-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 Indiana 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 required. Valid 5 years.
Required for bulk liquid or gas tank vehicle operation.
Required for vehicles designed for 16+ passengers including driver.
Requires P endorsement. Indiana requires additional school bus training and background check.
Class A CDL required.
TSA background check required.
ELDT required per 49 CFR Part 380 for first-time Class A or B applicants and H, P, S endorsement upgrades. Must use an FMCSA-registered provider at tpr.fmcsa.dot.gov.
Find a registered ELDT provider in Indiana →Interstate CDL holders must maintain a valid DOT Medical Examiner's Certificate from an FMCSA-certified examiner, valid up to 24 months. Submit self-certification and MEC copy to Indiana BMV. Intrastate CDL drivers must meet Indiana's intrastate medical standards.
Find an FMCSA-certified medical examiner →Apply at an Indiana BMV branch with proof of identity, Social Security Number, and Indiana residency. Pass the applicable knowledge tests, complete ELDT training through an FMCSA-registered provider, then pass the skills test. CDL fee is approximately $42 for 4 years.
Yes. Indiana INDOT imposes seasonal weight restrictions on certain secondary routes during spring thaw — typically from late February through mid-April. Reduced axle weight limits apply. Check INDOT's website for current restricted routes before hauling heavy loads in spring.
Indiana CDLs are valid for 4 years. DOT Medical Certificates must be renewed separately — typically every 24 months for most interstate drivers.
Auto transport carriers (car haulers) typically require a Class A CDL since the tractor plus multi-car trailer combination exceeds 26,001 lbs GCWR and the trailer GVWR typically exceeds 10,000 lbs.
Indiana provides CDL exemptions for farm vehicles operated within 150 air miles of the farm for intrastate agricultural transport. These exemptions don't apply to for-hire operations. Contact Indiana BMV for specific exemption documentation requirements.
Browse commercial trucks for sale from dealers in Indiana on TruckRadar.
Indiana CDL fee is approximately $42 for a 4-year license. Knowledge test included in application. Skills test fees vary by provider. Verify current amounts at in.gov/bmv.
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: Indiana IN Official DMVLast reviewed: April 8, 2026