What must I bring when applying for a Louisiana CDL?
You are required to have a valid Louisiana driver’s license, your social security card, and proof of insurance for all your current personal vehicles.
What are the physical requirements in Louisiana for obtaining a CDL?
As in many states, the state requires all individuals applying for a commercial driver’s license to get a Louisiana CDL physical. The state provides a CDL physical exam application, a medical form, and vision exam form. All the forms must be completed by you and your doctors when you apply for your CDL. You will then get a Department of Transportation medical certificate which certifies that you are physically capable of operating a commercial vehicle safely.
What are the specific steps in obtaining a Louisiana CDL?
You must first pass a written knowledge exam. You will then receive a CDL instructional permit which allows you to practice driving with another CDL holder. After you have received your permit, make an appointment for the skills test at a third party tester in your area. Keep in mind that you have only 6 months after the application date to complete all tests and forms to obtain your CDL. In addition, once you begin the application process, you must finish and submit all paperwork with that particular office.
How much will everything cost – the application, the CDL, and endorsements?
When you first apply to receive the Louisiana CDL instructional permit, there is a $15 application fee and $5 fee for each endorsement you are applying for. Once you pass the skills test and receive your actual CDL, the cost is $51 in the Orleans parish, and $41 in all other locations.
What should I expect from the skills test?
The skills test portion of the Louisiana CDL includes three parts. The pre-test inspection is to demonstrate your ability to inspect your vehicle to make sure it is safe to drive. The basic control skills portion tests your ability to control and handle the vehicle, and the road test is to demonstrate your ability to actually operate and drive the vehicle in different driving situations.
What is the age minimum for obtaining a HazMat (hazardous materials) endorsement?
You must be a minimum of 21 years old to transport hazardous materials.
I have a valid out-of-state CDL. How do I apply for a Louisiana CDL?
You can transfer your out-of-state CDL to a Louisiana CDL. To do this, you will be required to provide:
The valid, current out-of-state CDL
Proper identification (such as your out-of-state driver’s license)
Social security card
Proof of insurance
Cash to pay for any associated fees.
The only test you will be required to pass is the vision test, unless you are applying for a new HazMat endorsement; in that case you must pass that specific endorsement test.
More questions?
Contact us and we will promptly answer any additional questions you may have.