Understanding the Basics of Getting Your CDL

If you want to get a great-paying job, the first step is to get your commercial driver’s license. Obtaining your CDL will open the door for numerous driving positions within the transportation industry. And because of the current driver shortage in America, demand for qualified truck drivers is higher than ever. Here is at the basics of getting your CDL in Portland.

Pass CDL General Knowledge Test
Commercial drivers are required to take one or more knowledge tests depending on what class of license and what endorsements are needed. A general knowledge test is required for all applicants and covers basic information needed to safely operate a commercial truck. More specific knowledge tests that you may need to take include the air brakes test (required to operate vehicles

with air brakes) and hazardous materials endorsement test (required to haul hazardous materials or waste in amounts with require placards). You will learn everything you need to know in order to pass these knowledge tests while attending truck driving school.

Pass CDL Skills Test
After passing the required knowledge tests, the next step in obtaining your CDL is to pass the commercial skills tests. You will need to properly demonstrate how to perform a pre-trip vehicle inspection. You will then be asked to perform various driving maneuvers to demonstrate your ability to exercise basic control of the vehicle. You will also be tested on your skill to safely drive the vehicle in a variety of traffic situations. If you’ve never driven a commercial truck before, you will get plenty of time behind the wheel at truck driving school so you can take the CDL skills test with confidence.

If you’re serious about becoming a truck driver, Elite Truck School of Portland offers serious CDL training programs to help you obtain your license and start work as a professional driver. We offer weekend and weekday classes and try to keep class sizes small so students can enjoy a family-like environment and more one-on-one time with our instructors. Call us at (503) 616-5917 to learn more about our CDL training programs and truck driving job placement services.