Licensing

How to get a CDL in California

Each line is from a California licensing page opened October 29, 2026. A line that says the page did not state a fee is not an estimate.

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Minimum age

The DMV says you may be hired to drive a commercial motor vehicle carrying cargo that starts and ends in California if you are at least 18, and that interstate commerce or hazardous materials requires 21 or older. Either case still needs a CDL.

CLP fee

The fee page does not list a separate commercial learner permit amount. It lists a commercial Class A or B original application at $100. The CDL page says that application fee is nonrefundable and valid for 12 months.

CDL fee

Commercial Class A or B original is $100. Renewal is $59. Replacement of a lost or stolen commercial license is $44.

Skills-test fee

The fee page lists a commercial driving or skill retest at $46. It does not list a separate fee for the first skills test.

ELDT

Hold a commercial learner permit at least 14 days before the skills test. California Vehicle Code section 15250.1(b) requires Class A or B applicants to complete 15 hours of behind-the-wheel training, and the DMV says 10 of those hours must be on a public road. Theory has no minimum hours. The assessment must be at least 80 percent. A permit issued before February 7, 2022 does not require ELDT if the CDL is issued before that permit expires.

Medical card

As of July 27, 2026, interstate drivers cannot submit their own medical exam records. A National Registry examiner submits interstate results electronically. Intrastate drivers may still submit a paper medical examiner report and certificate in person, by mail, or through the Virtual Field Office.

Sources

• California DMV: commercial driver licenses
• California DMV: licensing fees

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