A Commercial Driver's License (CDL) is required in Ohio to operate commercial motor vehicles over 26,000 lbs GVWR, buses carrying 16 or more passengers, or vehicles placarded for hazardous materials. Ohio CDL fees start at $72 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 Ohio 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. Ohio requires additional school bus certification.
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 train with an FMCSA-registered provider at tpr.fmcsa.dot.gov.
Find a registered ELDT provider in Ohio →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 Ohio BMV. Ohio intrastate CDL drivers may use Ohio's intrastate medical standard.
Find an FMCSA-certified medical examiner →Apply at an Ohio BMV Deputy Registrar location. Pass the applicable knowledge tests, complete ELDT training through an FMCSA-registered provider, then pass the skills test. CDL fee is approximately $72 for 4 years.
Yes. Ohio ODOT imposes seasonal weight restrictions — typically reduced axle weight limits from late February through mid-April — on certain secondary roads during spring thaw. Check ODOT's website for current restricted routes before heavy hauling in spring.
Ohio CDLs are valid for 4 years. DOT Medical Certificates must be renewed separately, typically every 24 months for most interstate drivers.
Yes. Ohio accepts CDL transfers from other states. Visit an Ohio BMV Deputy Registrar with your current CDL, proof of identity, Social Security Number, and Ohio residency. You'll surrender your out-of-state CDL.
If the dump truck's GVWR is 26,001 lbs or more, a Class B CDL is required. If the dump truck is pulling a trailer with a GVWR over 10,000 lbs and the combination GCWR exceeds 26,001 lbs, a Class A CDL is required.
Browse commercial trucks for sale from dealers in Ohio on TruckRadar.
Ohio CDL fee is approximately $72 for a 4-year license. Knowledge test included in application. Skills test fees vary by provider. Verify current amounts at publicsafety.ohio.gov.
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: Ohio OH Official DMVLast reviewed: April 8, 2026