Colorado CDL Practice Test

Colorado CDL Resources

Here are more resources related to getting your CDL in Colorado:

• Learn what is required for getting your CDL in Colorado

  Colorado CDL Requirements

• Download the Colorado CDL manual for free right here.

  Colorado CDL Manual

• Find Paid CDL Training In Colorado

  Paid CDL Training In Colorado

Requirements to Obtain a Colorado Commercial Learner's Permit

The CDL Instruction Permit allows you to operate the class of vehicle shown on the permit only when you are accompanied by a person who is at least 21 years of age and holds a valid CDL of the same class of license or higher, with the required endorsements for the vehicle being operated. The person must be in the seat closest to the driver.

• You must hold a valid regular driver license and be at least 18 years old before applying for a CDL
• Proof of your Social Security number (More info below under ID/Residency)
• Current DOT medical card (More info below under Commercial Medical Examination)
• You will need to visit a driver license office and successfully pass the written tests that apply to the commercial license you desire. Colorado CDL manual
• If you want to add a HAZMAT endorsement on your CDL, you will need to successfully pass the HAZMAT written exam and provide a current TSA background check every time you purchase a CDL
• Once you have successfully passed the required exams, purchase a CDL permit for the applicable fee
• CDL school is not required, but recommended

What are Colorado's Identification/Residency Requirements to apply for a Commercial Learner's Permit?

• Proof of Address
  • Two proof of physical Colorado address documents are required
  • Documents, letters or envelopes with labels, corrections or changes to name address or date will not be accepted. Documents that only display a PO box number will not be accepted.
  • Electronic proofs of residency will be accepted
  • All documents presented must be dated within one year of application
  • Examples:
    • Computer Generated Bill (utility, credit card, doctor, hospital, etc.)
    • Bank Statement
    • Pre-Printed Pay Stub
    • First-Class Mail (government agency or court)
    • Current Homeowner's, Renter's, or Motor Vehicle Insurance Policy
    • Mortgage, Lease, or Rental Contract
    • Transcript or Report Card from an Accredited School
    • Motor Vehicle Registration
    • USPS Change Of Address Form (CNL107) W-2, SSA-1099, Non-SSA-1099
    • Postmarked first-class mail
  • NOTE: In order to meet the requirements for proof of address we suggest bringing more documentation than is necessary for every visit to a DMV office. Junk mail or bulk mailing (coupons, weekly mailers, advertising) and any hand-written documents are not acceptable as proof of address documentation.
• Proof of Social Security Number (one of the following)
  • Documents used as proof of Social Security number must be provided in hardcopy, not electronically.
  • Social Security Account number card (not laminated)
  • W-2 form (not accepted electronically)
  • SSA-1099 form
  • Non-SSA-1099 form
  • Pay stub with the applicant's name and SSN on it
• Special Circumstances
  • Individuals who are unable to provide two acceptable documents to verify 'Residential Address' may be eligible to provide alternative documents to meet the requirements
  • Minors Under Age 21
    • Two documents are required; verification documents used by the parent are acceptable for use by the minor.
    • The Colorado driver license/ID card/Permit of the parent counts as one document, provided the current address is listed on the front of the card.
  • Homeless Applicants
    • Homeless applicants without a residential address must provide a letter from the Government entity, or not-for-profit organization on its letterhead showing the facility's name, address and telephone number, including the legal representative's name, signature and signature date. The letter must state, "will accept delivery of mail for the customer
  • Customers With a Rural Route Mail Delivery Addess
    • Must provide a properly certified government-issued document showing their name, and a description of the residence's location
  • Residents of a Halfway House or Residential Treatment Facility
    • Must provide a letter from the facility, on the facility's letterhead showing the facility's name, address, and telephone number.
    • The letter must include the facility representative's name, signature and date and indicate they will accept delivery of mail for the applicant.

What is the Cost to get a Colorado Commercial Learner's Permit?

• Instruction Permit - $16.80
• Duplicate Permit - $9.00
• Subsequent Duplicate Permit - $16.00
• Commercial Driver License Test - $15.50
• Duplicate License - $9.00
• Subsequent Duplicate License - $16.00

Commercial Medical Examination

This exam indicates an individual is physically qualified to operate a commercial motor vehicle in accordance with 49 CFR 391.41, Subpart E. All commercial motor vehicle drivers must have a physical performed by a medical examiner listed on National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners

• You may bring it to any driver license office
• You may fax it to 303-205-5709
• You may scan and e-mail to dor_cdlunit@state.co.us
• You may mail it to
  • Colorado Department of Revenue
  • Attn: CDL Unit
  • PO Box 173350
  • Denver CO 80217-3350

Medical conditions that may disqualify you from holding a CDL:

• Poor vision
• Diabetes requiring insulin
• Seizures
• Heart problems
• Respiratory issues
• Alcohol abuse
• Drug use, including marijuana
• Many medical conditions, on a case-by-case basis, may disqualify you from holding a CDL. Some common issues are listed above, however each individual needs to check with their medical provider for a final decision

Where to Take Your Colorado Commercial Permit Test

You can schedule an appointment online to take the Colorado Commercial Permit test. Go to the Colorado Department of Revenue website and select your county.

What Information is on the Test for the Colorado Commercial Learner's Permit?

• Class A - minimum exams required are:
  • General knowledge
  • Combination
  • Air brakes (required if driving a vehicle with air brakes)
• Class B - minimum exams required are:
  • General knowledge
  • Air brakes (required if driving a vehicle with air brakes)
• Class C - minimum exams required are:
  • General knowledge
  • Passenger (required if carrying 16 passengers or more including driver)
  • Hazardous materials (required if transporting hazardous materials)

How long is the Commercial Learner's Permit Valid?

Commercial Learner's Permits (CLP) are valid for 180 days, and are eligible for one renewal, which is also valid for 180 days. Please note: The results of the written CDL test are only valid for one year. If the results of your written test are over one year old, you will need to retake the written test, even if your CLP is valid.

Military Test Waiver

The Vets-2-Trucks program helps Colorado residents who are currently serving in the military, close to being discharged or have been recently discharged (within one year) qualify for a Colorado CDL. The Vets-2-Trucks program waives the drive skills testing requirement, but requires individuals to successfully pass the written exams.

Process:

• Complete, sign and date the front page of the .
• Have your Commanding Officer complete, sign and date the back.
• Complete, sign and date the Colorado Division of Motor Vehicles CDL Unit 10-Year License Certification.
• Submit the completed forms to the Colorado DMV CDL Unit either by fax to 303-205-5754 or by mail to:
  • Colorado Division of Motor Vehicles
  • CDL Unit Room 154
  • 1881 Pierce St.
  • Lakewood, CO 80214
• DMV will notify you by return mail regarding the results of your application for waiver.
• If you have not already done so, arrange for a Department of Transportation Medical Examination through your physician or health care facility, and get your DOT Medical Card.
• If you have not already passed the written test, study the Colorado CDL Manual for General Knowledge, Combination if you want a Class A CDL and Air Brakes (if applicable).
• Once you've qualified for the waiver, you may go to any full-service Driver License office , take and pass the applicable written tests, provide your DOT medical card and purchase your full privilege CDL. (Rules for proof of identity, name, age and lawful presence and residential address still apply.)

Other Important Information

For additional information, email DOR_cdlunit@state.co.us