Michigan

Michigan Trucking Schools and Programs

There are many truck driving careers in Michigan – and you can take advantage of many of them with just a CDL. It’s important to know about your earning potential with this career as well as the many industries that need truck drivers.

A commercial’s driver license ,or CDL, is a special type of license that allows people to operate a vehicle for commercial use. Buses, tractor trailers and tow trucks are examples of vehicles that people will need a CDL license to operate. Additionally, people who will be driving a church or school van will also need a CDL license. The requirements needed to get a CDL license can vary, depending on the state that in which one resides. Below are some of the requirements for getting a CDL license in Michigan:

Age:In the state of Michigan, people can operate a commercial vehicle at the age of 18. However, people who are interested in driving a motor vehicle on the interstate must be at least 21 years old. Additionally, drivers must also be 21 to transport hazardous materials. People must present a birth certificate , proof of U.S. citizenship and proof of residency before they can get a CDL license.

Driving record:People who want to get a CDL license must have a clean driving record. DUIs and other types of convictions that have occurred within the last 24 months may disqualify a person from getting a CDL license. Drivers who have had their license suspended or revoked within the last 36 months may also be denied a CDL license.

Health requirements:Drivers are also required to be in reasonably good physical health. Epilepsy, insulin-dependent diabetes and vision problems are examples of medical conditions that can disqualify a person from getting a CDL license. People are required to submit a form from a health care provider stating that they are in good health. It is important to note that people who have serious health conditions may be able to get a CDL license if they get a waiver from their doctor.

Passing the test:People must pass a skills test before they are awarded a CDL license. The skills test consists of three parts: the pre-inspection test, the basic controls test and the road test. People are required to pass all three parts of the examination before they are awarded a CDL license.

• • Show proof of Social Security number

• • Present your Federal Security Threat Assessment if you are applying for a hazardous materials endorsement

• • Complete an application

If you have had any change in your physical condition since your last driver license renewal which may affect your ability to drive, you may need a special form from the branch office for your physician to fill out before you can apply for your license.

• • Meet driver record eligibility requirements

• • Pass the required knowledge and vision tests

• • Pay your CDL fees

• • Schedule your CDL skills test

You must take the skills tests through an approved third party tester. Third party testers are public and private agencies authorized by the state to conduct CDL skills tests. Once you have passed your CDL skills tests, you must return to the Secretary of State branch office to:

• • Pay a correction fee to add CDL privileges to your license

• • Receive your CDL