California CDL Resources

California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV)

This page collects official CDL resources for California: the state licensing agency, CDL handbook, testing locations, and renewal information. All links go directly to official California government sources. Requirements change — always verify current procedures directly with the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).

Official resources to check first

California DMV manages CDL licensing. The CDL manual is available on the DMV website. Verify current requirements at dmv.ca.gov.

CDL Licensing · California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) California CDL — California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) https://www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/driver-licenses-identification-cards/commercial-driver-licenses-cdl/
CDL Manual / Handbook · California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) California CDL Driver Manual https://www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/handbook/commercial-driver-handbook/
State Driver Licensing Agency · California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) — Main Website https://www.dmv.ca.gov/

CDL licensing through California DMV

California CDL applicants apply through a California DMV field office. After passing the knowledge tests, applicants receive a Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP). The CLP must be held for at least 14 days before scheduling the skills test. New CDL applicants (Class A or B) must complete ELDT at a provider on the FMCSA Training Provider Registry before scheduling the skills test. The DMV website lists testing locations and appointment scheduling.

California-specific notes

California requires separate testing for each endorsement. Hazardous materials endorsement requires a TSA fingerprint-based threat assessment in addition to the HazMat knowledge test. California has its own medical certificate process — after a federal MCSA-5876 is issued, California CDL holders must also submit the certificate to DMV through their driver record system. Verify current California-specific medical certification submission requirements at dmv.ca.gov before your next renewal.

Before you apply or renew

These steps apply regardless of state. Verify each requirement directly with the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) 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 California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).

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. California state requirements for submitting or updating medical certification vary — check the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) 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 California-specific medical certificate submission procedures, start at the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) 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 California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) 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 California government resources as a reference. We do not maintain state CDL rules, forms, or fees. Requirements change — always verify current procedures directly with the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) before taking any action.

Last reviewed: June 4, 2026. Links go to official state agency websites. Verify that your browser shows the official state government domain before submitting any forms or payments.