Are you dreaming about becoming a commercial driver? If so, you’re going to need more than your standard driver's license. You need a commercial driver’s license and it’s not something you can just order online. Yep, a driver’s license class is in your future, along with a test or two.
However, before you start filling out random forms it’s a good idea to decide which type of commercial driver’s license you’re going for. The Boulder State has more than one type of CDL and the one you have determines which vehicles you can legally operate. Ready to learn more about Colorado commercial driver’s licenses? Here’s what you should know.
Pretty much all states have three classifications of commercial driver’s licenses (CDLs). The type of license you should get depends on the type of vehicle you want to drive. You’re also not limited to holding only one license.
You get to hang onto your driver’s license and you can apply for one, two, or all three types of commercial licenses. The reason you can basically collect commercial driver’s licenses is fairly simple. Each license applies to a specific type of vehicle. Since you’re allowed to operate any type of motor vehicle with the correct license, you can hold as many as you want.
If you want to operate a commercial motor vehicle with a gross weight rating of 26,001 pounds or heavier, you need a Class A commercial driver’s license. This also applies if any vehicle you’re driving is towing loads weighing 10,001 pounds or more.
This is also considered a basic commercial vehicle license and it’s a good place to start if you’re not used to handling large and/or heavy trucks like semis.
If you’re planning on operating any of the following types of vehicles on public roadways, you must have a valid Class 2 CDL:
If you’re not sure if the commercial vehicle you want to drive meets any of the following requirements, check with the trucking company. You can also look up the vehicle’s manufacturer online and find the specifics. Another option is to take a trip to your local Colorado DMV. Someone there should be able to provide some guidance on the type of commercial license you need.
If you’re planning on transporting hazardous cargo you need more than a warning sign on the vehicle. You also need to have a valid Class 3 CDL. This type of commercial driver’s license is also a requirement if the vehicle is designed to transport more than 16 passengers at a time. Think of an excursion bus.
Getting your commercial driver’s license isn’t a time-consuming or difficult process. You do need to meet a few criteria but it’s nothing too complicated.
You must be at least 18 years old to apply for a CDL license. You may be able to take the classes before you turn 18 but you have to wait before heading to the DMV. There aren’t any exceptions to this law, even if you’re an emancipated adult at 17. You must also have a current and valid driver's license. Once again, this is a requirement and there aren’t any exemptions.
After going through the training classes, you need to complete all of the associated CDL paperwork. This includes the commercial driver’s license application. You’re also going to need to submit a medical certificate from a licensed healthcare provider. All CDL applicants must also be either a permanent resident or a U.S. citizen.
If you meet all of the above requirements, it’s time to schedule an appointment with the Colorado State Police. They’re the ones responsible for giving you the vision, skills, and written tests. If you pass all three tests, you get to sit for a picture that goes on your commercial driver’s license.
Being a commercial driver in Colorado can open the door to a lucrative and rewarding career so what are you waiting for? If you’re injured by a commercial driver, for example, a trucking accident contact a Colorado personal injury attorney to learn more about your legal rights.
