Alabama CDL Resources

Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA)

This page collects official CDL resources for Alabama: the state licensing agency, CDL handbook, testing locations, and renewal information. All links go directly to official Alabama government sources. Requirements change — always verify current procedures directly with the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA).

Official resources to check first

Alabama CDL resources are managed by ALEA (alea.gov). Always verify current requirements directly with ALEA before applying.

CDL Licensing · Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) Alabama CDL — Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) https://www.alea.gov/dps/driver-license/cdl-frequently-asked-questions
State Driver Licensing Agency · Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) — Main Website https://www.alea.gov/dps/driver-license

No direct CDL handbook link is listed for Alabama yet. Visit the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) website and look for a "CDL Manual," "Commercial Driver Handbook," or similar link.

CDL licensing through ALEA

Alabama CDL applicants apply through the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) Driver License Division. Knowledge tests for the general knowledge section and applicable endorsements are taken at ALEA driver license offices. After passing required tests, a Commercial Learner's Permit is issued. The CLP must be held at least 14 days before the CDL skills test. New Class A and Class B CDL applicants must complete federal ELDT at an FMCSA Training Provider Registry listed provider before scheduling the skills test. Verify current testing locations and appointment options at alea.gov.

Alabama CDL for agricultural and construction operations

Alabama has active agricultural and construction sectors that generate commercial vehicle activity. Alabama CDL holders operating in agricultural transport should confirm whether the federal agricultural exemption applies to their specific operation before assuming HOS relief. The agricultural exemption has specific conditions regarding the type of commodity, the radius of operation, and planting and harvesting seasons. CDL holders in construction-related operations involving hazardous materials (fuel, certain aggregates) should confirm HazMat placarding requirements. Verify CDL requirements at alea.gov.

Before you apply or renew

These steps apply regardless of state. Verify each requirement directly with the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) before beginning the application process.

  • Verify your CDL class (A, B, or C) matches the vehicles you intend to operate.
  • Check whether you need endorsements (HazMat, Tanker, Passenger, School Bus, Doubles/Triples) and confirm state testing requirements for each.
  • Confirm you hold a valid DOT medical certificate (MCSA-5876) and that it is current before applying or renewing.
  • If you are a new CDL applicant, confirm whether ELDT (Entry-Level Driver Training) applies to your situation — see the ELDT overview.
  • Gather required documents — identity, residency, and any existing license — before visiting a testing location.
  • Confirm current fees and testing appointment availability directly with the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA).

Medical certificate

CDL holders operating in interstate commerce must carry a current DOT medical certificate issued by a certified medical examiner on the FMCSA National Registry. Alabama state requirements for submitting or updating medical certification vary — check the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) website for the current procedure.

Medical Examiner Search · Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) FMCSA National Registry — Find a Certified Medical Examiner https://nationalregistry.fmcsa.dot.gov/

For Alabama-specific medical certificate submission procedures, start at the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) website .

ELDT — Entry-Level Driver Training

Federal ELDT requirements apply to new Class A and Class B CDL applicants and to certain endorsements. Training must be completed at a provider listed on the FMCSA Training Provider Registry (TPR). The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) does not administer ELDT — training is completed at a registered provider before you schedule the skills test.

Federal references

Important: CDL List collects links to official Alabama government resources as a reference. We do not maintain state CDL rules, forms, or fees. Requirements change — always verify current procedures directly with the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) before taking any action.

Last reviewed: May 29, 2026. Links go to official state agency websites. Verify that your browser shows the official state government domain before submitting any forms or payments.