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New CDL entry-level driver training requirements take effect Feb. 2022

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Beginning Feb. 7, 2022, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) will require new CDL applicants and those seeking to upgrade their CDL to receive training from a certified organization on the national registry of Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) providers. ELDT training includes curriculum in three areas: theory, range and road. To process and issue a CDL, the Arizona Department of Transportation Motor Vehicle Division will need to validate that an applicant has completed this training.

This requirement impacts drivers attempting to:

  • Obtain a Class A or Class B commercial driver’s license (CDL) for the first time.
  • Upgrade an existing Class B CDL to a Class A CDL.
  • Obtain a school bus (S), passenger (P), or hazardous materials (H) endorsement for the first time.

The ELDT regulations are not retroactive and do not apply to individuals holding a valid CDL or an S, P or H endorsement issued prior to February 7, 2022.

To view a list of training providers, visit FMCSA's Training Provider Registry home page, scroll down to "Do you need a training provider?" and click that link.

If your organization or business currently trains its drivers and is interested in becoming a certified training provider on the national registry, visit tpr.fmcas.dot.gov for more information and to register as a provider.

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Commercial Driver License (CDL)

Commercial Driver License (CDL)

 

Steps to a First Time Commercial Driver License

A guide to walk you through the step-by-step process and help you confidently navigate the requirements and procedures necessary for getting your commercial driver license in Arizona. 

CDL Office Locations

Commercial Driver License offices and testing locations

This page contains information on testing times, locations and contact information for CDL activities throughout the state.

Knowledge testing for commercial learner's permit or endorsement tests can be done at any MVD offices in Arizona between 7:30 a.m. - 3 p.m. No appointment necessary.

Knowledge tests require a minimum score of 80 percent to pass the exam. Applicants who failed their attempts are required to wait until the next business day to retake any tests.

Skills Testing is conducted by appointment only at the following locations. You may visit any MVD office or contact MVD at 602.255.0072 to request for an appointment for skill testing. Once a request has been submitted, the CDL tester will contact you to schedule an appointment for your desired location.

Casa Grande
Flagstaff
Goodyear
Holbrook
Kingman
Payson
Prescott
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Southeast Mesa
Tucson
Yuma
Sierra Vista

 

 

Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse Requirements

The U.S. DOT requires CDL drivers to undergo drug and alcohol testing, with rules for procedures and violation reporting.

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License Information

The Motor Vehicle Division of ADOT serves Arizona residents by issuing CDLs and conducting knowledge and road/skills tests at any CDL office.

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Vehicles Requiring a CDL

These are guidelines for determining vehicles that require a commercial driver license to operate.

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Tests and Manuals

You are required to answer at least 80 percent of the questions on each knowledge test correctly and to complete a road/skills test in the class of vehicle you intend to drive.

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Medical Certification

The Medical Review Program helps ensure that CDL drivers meet Federal Regulation 49 CFR 391.41 Physical Qualifications for Drivers and CFR 391.43.

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CDL Endorsements and Exemptions

This page highlights and defines the FMCSA Regulations, CDL Endorsements and Exceptions which apply to CDL Commercial Vehicles.

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