Class A CDL Training Enrollment Requirements

Q: Do I need a Commercial Learner’s Permit to start?

By law, you must have a Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) before CDL training. At Apex, we help you get your CLP during the first week of the program, so you do not need a CLP to enroll.

Q: How long do I need to hold my CLP before the CDL exam?

You must have a Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) for at least 14 days before you can take the CDL exam.

Q: What’s a DOT physical?

A DOT physical is a health check required by the Department of Transportation. A certified medical examiner evaluates whether you’re medically fit to operate a commercial vehicle safely.

The enrollment requirements for Apex’s Class A CDL training program help ensure you meet safety and compliance standards, and are positioned to build a safe, successful career on the road.

CDL Enrollment Requirements

To qualify for Apex’s Class A CDL training, you must:

21 years or older. You must be at least 21 to drive big trucks across state lines.
Valid U.S. driver’s license for 3+ years. This shows you have experience behind the wheel.
English skills. Must be able to read, speak, and write in English. You’ll need to understand road signs and fill out reports. (This is required per FMCSA §391.11).
U.S. citizenship or have a valid work permit or VISA. You must be legally allowed to work in the U.S.
Understand traffic signs and signals. Safety starts with knowing what signs mean on the road.
Be able to fill out basic forms and reports. Truck drivers keep records of their trips and deliveries.
Provide a copy of your birth certificate. This is needed to get your CDL permit.
Clean MVR (driving record). No DUIs, hit-and-runs, or reckless driving in the last 3 years.
Comply with DUI limits. No more than one DUI in the past 5 years or two total in your lifetime (unless you have a pre-hire letter from a trucking company).
Pass a DOT physical and drug test. This shows you’re healthy and safe to drive. (This is required per FMCSA §39.143)

Have Questions?

Do I need a Commercial Learner’s Permit to start?

By law, you must have a CLP before CDL training. At Apex, we help you get your Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) during the first week of the program, so you do not need a CLP to enroll.

How long do I need to hold my CLP before the CDL exam?

You must have a Commercial Learner’s Permit for at least 14 days before you can take the CDL exam.

What’s a DOT physical?

It’s a health check required by the Department of Transportation. A doctor makes sure you’re fit to drive a truck safely.

What do they look for on a DOT physical?

A complete routine physical with focus on your vision, hearing, blood pressure, and review of past conditions.

What’s an MVR?

MVR stands for Motor Vehicle Record. It’s a report of your driving history. We can help you get it and check if you’re eligible.

What is FMCSA?

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) is part of the US Department of Transportation. FMCSA sets federal regulations and laws to prevent commercial motor vehicle-related fatalities and injuries and ensure trucks and other large vehicles are operated safely.

Why do I need to speak English to be a truck driver in the US?

Truck drivers need to read road signs, communicate with dispatchers, and complete reports. It’s an FMCSA requirement to be able to understand English. It’s part of staying safe and doing the job right.

Can I get a CDL if I’ve had a DUI?

You may still qualify. It depends on how long ago the violation was and how many you’ve had. You may not have had more than one DUI in the past 5 years, or more than 2 over your entire life.

What if I don’t have my birth certificate?

You’ll need to get a certified copy. If you were born in Kansas or Missouri, you can order a copy from the Department of Health for a small fee. If you were born in another state, you’ll need to get one from your birth state’s department of health. We can help you learn how to get a copy of your birth certificate.

What happens after I meet the requirements?

You’re ready to talk with our admissions team about starting your CDL training. Most students finish in just 4 weeks and start working right away.

What if I’m not sure I qualify for CDL training?

Call us! We’ll walk through your situation and help you figure out your next steps. Even if you don’t qualify for CDL training right now, we may have other options like our Warehouse Operations program.

A CDL Is Closer Than You Think

If you’re ready to start your truck driving career, Apex Technical Institute is ready for you. Call (913) 423-3734 and learn how you can get started today!