
Feb 7, 2016 ● Sheryl Posnick
How to Get Your CDL in Kentucky and North Dakota
This article is useful for anyone who wants to apply for a CDL in Kentucky or North Dakota. If you want to learn about getting a CDL in other states, please refer to this comprehensive guide on getting a CDL in all states.
Kentucky
The following drivers must obtain a CDL:Class A CDL
Any combination of vehicles with a GCWR (the loaded weight of a combination vehicle) of 26,001+ pounds, provided the GVWR(the loaded weight of a single vehicle) of the vehicle(s) being towed is 10,000+ pounds.Class B CDL
- Any single vehicle with a GVWR of 26,001+ pounds
- Any vehicle with a GVWR of 26,001+ pounds pulling a vehicle with a GVWR of 10,000 pounds or less.
- A single vehicle designed to transport 16+ passengers (including the driver), if the GVWR is 26,001+ pounds or more.
Class C CDL
- Any vehicle with a GVWR of less than 26,001 pounds transporting hazardous materials for which placarding is required
- Any vehicle transporting 16+ passengers, including the driver, with a GVWR of less than 26,001 pounds
- A copy of the CDL application
- A legible copy of both front and back of a DOT medical card
- A CDL Self Certification form certifying the desired vehicle type.
Knowledge Test
Applicants must take an exam testing basic knowledge of the vehicle or vehicles they will operate. A score of 80% is required to pass. After passing, a CDL instruction permit will then be issued which is valid for six months. The permit must be held for 14 days prior to a skills test being administered.Skills/Road Test
Drivers will be required to take this test in the class of vehicle they intend to drive. The test includes a pre-trip inspection, basic control skills maneuvering, and road skills driving tests. The applicant will be required to provide a vehicle for testing and must be accompanied by a licensed driver for that vehicle.North Dakota
The following drivers must obtain a CDL:Class A CDL
Any combination of vehicles with a GCWR (the loaded weight of a combination vehicle) of 26,001+ pounds, provided the GVWR(the loaded weight of a single vehicle) of the vehicle(s) being towed is 10,000+ pounds.Class B CDL
- Any single vehicle with a GVWR of 26,001+ pounds
- Any vehicle with a GVWR of 26,001+ pounds pulling a vehicle with a GVWR of 10,000 pounds or less.
Class C CDL
- Any vehicle with a GVWR of less than 26,001 pounds transporting hazardous materials for which placarding is required
- Any vehicle transporting 16+ passengers, including the driver, with a GVWR of less than 26,001 pounds
CDL Requirements
You must:- Be 21 years old to cross state lines
- Be 18-20 years old to apply for an intra-state CDL
- Be 16 years old to test for a CDL restricted to custom harvesting operations only
- Read, write and speak English.
- Meet all Federal Medical Requirements in 49 CFR 391
- Current North Dakota Driver License
- Proof of legal presence
- Proof of residence address
- Proof of passing an eye examination