Commercial driving is one of the most exciting career paths in the job market. If you’ve decided to venture into this bold field, you’ve made the right choice, and at the right time too. The field is currently experiencing a shortage of manpower, so you have a high guarantee of job security and professional advancement.
However, before you are allowed to operate a commercial vehicle, you need to undergo a rite of passage—passing the CDL exams.
Note: A CDL practice test can help you get all the knowledge and experience you need to pass the CDL exam on your first try.
We’re here to answer all the questions that are brewing in your mind concerning your upcoming exams. We’ve made a list of six of the most asked questions, and we’ll extensively discuss each of them for your maximum understanding.
- Why Do I Need to Take the CDL Exam?
You will be assigned a license after you’ve successfully passed your CDL exam. When you get this license, you become eligible for most of the high-paying jobs in the industry. You’ll find that this license is among the basic criteria for most job opportunities; having it gives you an edge over those who do not.
Once you’ve taken this exam, you will also become eligible for promotion in your current field. Your employer will be mandated to acknowledge your effort and commitment to development; endorsing your promotion will be the most suitable thing to do.
Also, with this certificate, you have a higher guarantee of job security. Commercial driving is quite a flexible career path. You may not know the ideal domain for you during the early phases.
Some people start as school bus drivers and eventually settle for transporting industrial products. Having this certificate at hand gives you the flexibility to try out as many fields as possible in a bid to find the most ideal role for yourself.
Furthermore, this certificate is usually a foundational step for advanced resources. Once you have this and begin to reap the benefits, you’ll most likely feel the nudge to advance to higher certifications so you can enjoy better perks.
- What Are the State Requirements for Taking a CDL Exam?
In Canada, getting a CDL is a regulated process that is governed by laws and requirements. These criteria vary slightly from one province to another. However, there are a few overarching principles that apply to the process nationwide.
Firstly, before a candidate takes the exam, they must check off all the following eligibility requirements:
- Be at least 18 years of age (or 19 in some provinces).
- Have a valid class 5 driver’s license (or an equivalent).
- Be either a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, or have a valid work permit.
Once these criteria have been met, they have to proceed to choose the most suitable type of license. The type they choose largely depends on the type of commercial vehicle they intend to operate.
The knowledge test comes next. The candidate must pass a written knowledge test that covers a range of topics specific to the class of CDL they are pursuing. This test typically includes questions on topics such as air brakes, vehicle inspections, road signs, and safe driving practices.
Some provinces require you to complete specific training or sometimes accumulate a certain number of hours of practical driving experience. This is to ensure that you have the necessary knowledge and experience to operate a commercial vehicle.
There’s also a medical procedure attached to the process. This clearance helps to ensure that the potential drivers are physically fit and healthy. The board goes ahead to check your criminal records as well. So long as you do not have any disqualifying convictions, you’re free to go.
You’ll then need to pass a road test conducted by a qualified examiner. The examiner will test your knowledge in several areas, including components like vehicle inspections, backing up, and on-road driving.
- What Type of CDL License Do I Need?
As mentioned earlier, the type of license you should apply for largely depends on the type of vehicle you’ll be operating. Here is a list of the different classes of licenses and the vehicles they cover:
- Class 1: Tractor-trailers (also known as semi-trucks)
- Class 2: Buses, including school buses
- Class 3: Trucks with three or more axles, excluding those covered by Class 1 or 2
- Class 4: Taxis, limousines, and other vehicles that transport passengers for hire
- Class 5: Passenger vehicles, such as cars and light trucks
- Class 6: Motorcycles and mopeds
- How Do I Pass a CDL Exam On My First Try?
Taking practice tests greatly impacts your chances of passing on your first try. These tests are formulated with the same structure as the official test. You’ll be assessed on the same topics and areas that the official test does.
When you take the test, you can identify the knowledge gaps and train until these gaps are covered. You’ll also get a first-hand feel of everything to expect on the day of the written exam, so there’ll be no surprises.
As for the practical test, the best way to impress your examiner would be to get adequate hands-on experience. Practicing on your own will help you develop the right tips and tricks that’ll convince your examiner you’re ready to tour the road. However, while you practice, you should get someone with sufficient experience (preferably a trainer) to tag along.
- How Many Tests Will I Take Before Getting My CDL License?
Here’s a list of the tests you’ll be taking before you can obtain a valid CDL:
- Written Knowledge Test (General CDL Knowledge)
- Air Brake Knowledge Test (if your vehicle has air brakes)
- Endorsement Tests (if applicable):
- Tanker Endorsement
- Hazardous Materials Endorsement
- Passenger Endorsement
- School Bus Endorsement
- Other endorsements specific to your needs
- Medical Examination (Physical)
- Practical Road Test
Not all the tests listed here may be applicable in your residential province. It’s always a good idea to check with your local license agency to confirm which of these apply.
- What Happens If I Fail the CDL?
The CDL has a good pass rate. However, if you do fail, it’s not the end of the road yet. You’re allowed to retake the exam if you choose to. In some provinces, there may be wait periods after the first trial. Be sure to confirm with your local agency if this applies to you too. If there is, use this period to hone every aspect of your knowledge so the second trial will be your last.
There may be fees associated with retaking CDL tests, so be prepared for additional expenses.
