Abbreviation: CLP
Commercial Learner's Permit
A permit that allows a CDL applicant to practice operating a commercial motor vehicle under the supervision of a qualified CDL holder.
A CLP must be held for a minimum of 14 days before the CDL skills test can be administered. The driver must be accompanied by a CDL holder at all times.
CLP requirements and restrictions
A CLP allows practice driving under direct supervision. The driver must be accompanied in the vehicle cab by a CDL holder with at least one year of driving experience in the same class of vehicle. CLP holders may not drive between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m. under most conditions. The CLP must be held for at least 14 calendar days before the CDL skills test can be scheduled — this waiting period cannot be shortened. CLPs are valid for 180 days and may be renewed once.
CLP, ELDT, and the skills test sequence
Obtaining a CLP and completing ELDT are separate steps that typically run in parallel. Many applicants start ELDT behind-the-wheel training while holding their CLP. ELDT completion must be reflected in the FMCSA Training Provider Registry before the state will schedule the CDL skills test. The general sequence: pass the knowledge test → receive CLP → complete ELDT theory and behind-the-wheel training → hold CLP for at least 14 days → schedule and pass the CDL skills test.
Last updated: June 4, 2026
When this definition matters
This term usually matters when a driver, owner-operator, or small carrier is deciding whether a federal rule applies, preparing a compliance file, or checking a state CDL step. Use this definition as a starting point, then confirm the controlling requirement in the official source listed below before making a licensing, hiring, dispatch, or recordkeeping decision.
The related terms above are included because they often appear in the same compliance workflow. Reviewing them together can prevent common mix-ups, such as treating a state licensing step as a federal carrier obligation or confusing a driver record with a separate employer record.