How Long Does it Take to Get a CDL?

CDL training doesn’t have to take months. For many students, the required CDL training can be completed in about four weeks.

If you’re pursuing a Class A CDL, most full-time programs include 160 hours of training, which is often finished in roughly four weeks. This is the core hands-on training that prepares you for the CDL skills test.

The full CDL process includes a few additional steps – such as earning your permit and scheduling your test – which can add time depending on where you’re standing.

In general:

• CDL training alone: ~4 weeks (full-time)
• Full process start to finish: ~7-8 weeks for students starting from scratch
• Students with a permit may finish faster

Below we break down each step of the CDL process so you can see exactly where the time goes and what affects your personal time.

CDL Timeline Overview

First-time CDL applicants move through three main steps:

• Step 1: Getting Your Permit (CLP)
• Step 2: Completing CDL Training (ELDT)
• Step 3: Taking and passing the CDL skills test

Step 1: Getting Your Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP)

The first step toward earning a CDL is obtaining a Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP). This permit allows you to practice driving a commercial vehicle under supervision.

Before receiving a CLP, applicants must:

• Meet CDL eligibility requirements
• Pass required written knowledge tests
• Provide a valid DOT medical certificate

Most students spend at least 1 week studying before taking the permit tests. The tests themselves are completed in a single day, but preparation time varies based on prior experience and study habits.

When the first week of training at Elite Truck School is done, you’ll have your permit and be ready to get behind the wheel and learn how to drive.

Once issued, a CLP is typically valid for 180 days. Federal regulations also require drivers to hold their permit for at least 14 days before taking the CDL skills test.

Step 2: Completing CDL Training (ELDT)

After earning a CLP, drivers must complete Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) with an FMCSA-registered training provider. This requirement applies to most first-time Class A and Class B CDL applicants.

CDL training focuses on building the skills needed to safely operate commercial vehicles and pass the CDL skills exam. Training typically includes:

• Classroom instruction covering safety, regulations, and vehicle systems
• Hands-on range training for inspection and basic maneuvers
• On-road driving in real traffic conditions

How Long Does CDL Training Take?

For full-time students, CDL training is often the longest part of the overall process

• Full-time Class A CDL training: ~4 weeks (160 hours)
• Part-time training: 6-8 weeks
• Weekend-only programs: 8-10 weeks

Full-time programs offer the fastest path to completing training, making them ideal for students who can focus on training as their primary commitment. Part-time and weekend options provide flexibility for those balancing work or family responsibilities, though they extend the timeline.

Step 3: Taking the CDL Skills Test

Once training is complete and the 14-day CLP waiting period has passed, drivers may schedule their CDL skills test through their state DMV.

The CDL skills test includes three parts:

• Pre-trip inspection – demonstrating that the vehicle is safe to operate
• Basic vehicle control – backing, turning, and maneuvering
• On-road driving – operating the vehicle safely in traffic

At Elite Truck School we will help students prepare for the test from start to finish. Students get hands-on training with small class sizes that allow them to get more individualized training. Once they’re ready to take the test, we help them schedule their exams, helping our students from start to finish.

The full test typically takes 90 minutes to two hours. If a driver does not pass all sections, most states allow retesting of only the failed portions.

After passing the skills test, drivers usually receive a temporary CDL, with the physical license mailed later. Processing time varies by state and can take 1 to 4 weeks.

What Can Affect How Long it Take to Get a CDL?

While many students complete the process in under two months, several factors can extend the timeline:

• Studying longer for permit tests
• Choosing part-time or weekend training
• Adding endorsements that require extra testing
• Limited DMV testing availability
• Needing additional practice before testing

Planning ahead and scheduling tests early can help reduce delays.

Typical CDL Timelines by License Type

For full-time students from getting your CLP to taking the CDL test, common timelines include:

• Class A CDL: about 7-8 weeks
• Class B CDL: about 4-6 weeks
• Class C CDL: about 2-4 weeks

More complex vehicles and endorsements require additional training time, which is why Class A programs are typically the longest.

Frequently Asked Questions about CDL Timelines

What is the fastest way to get a CDL?

The fastest path is enrolling in a full-time ELDT-compliant training program, like Elite Truck School’s. With consistent scheduling, the entire process can often be completed in 5-8 weeks.

How long does CDL training take?

For full-time students, CDL training typically takes about 4 weeks for Class A programs. Part-time and weekend schedules take longer. If you’re training for a Class B or Class C, those take less time than a Class A.

Does the type of CDL affect how long it takes?

Yes. Class A CDL generally takes the longest due to vehicle complexity. Class B and Class C licenses require less time.

What can delay the CDL process?

Common delays include limited DMV test availability, part-time schedules, added endorsements, or needing additional practice.

How long does it take to get CDL endorsements?

Endorsements could add days or weeks depending on the type, as some require additional written or skills testing.

Is CDL training required before taking the skills test?

Yes. Most first-time applicants must complete ELDT training with an FMCSA-registered provider before testing.

What happens if I don’t pass the CDL skills test the first time?

Most states allow drivers to retest only the sections they didn’t pass. Retesting can add time but does not usually require restarting training.