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 CDL cannot be issued until an applicant provides:

• 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.

The above information must be forwarded to the Division of Driver Licensing and posted to the driver’s CDLIS record prior to applying for issuance of a CDL/CLP at the circuit court clerk’s office. All applicants must then pass a knowledge test (written or oral) and a vision test.

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

Once you meet all requirements, you must pass the required knowledge test(s) for the CDL Class you seek and purchase a Commercial Learners Permit (CLP). Before testing, you must present your:

• Current North Dakota Driver License
• Proof of legal presence
• Proof of residence address
• Proof of passing an eye examination

Finally, you must demonstrate your ability to operate your desired vehicle by passing a road test. A road test cannot be scheduled without a valid CLP.