Connecticut CDL Resources
Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV)
This page collects official CDL resources for Connecticut: the state licensing agency, CDL handbook, testing locations, and renewal information. All links go directly to official Connecticut government sources. Requirements change — always verify current procedures directly with the Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).
Official resources to check first
Connecticut CDL information is managed by CT DMV (portal.ct.gov/DMV). Verify current requirements at portal.ct.gov/DMV.
No direct CDL handbook link is listed for Connecticut yet. Visit the Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) website and look for a "CDL Manual," "Commercial Driver Handbook," or similar link.
CDL licensing through Connecticut DMV
Connecticut CDL applicants apply through the Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles. Knowledge tests and CLP issuance are handled at CT DMV locations. The CLP must be held at least 14 days before the CDL skills test. New Class A and Class B applicants must complete ELDT at an FMCSA-listed training provider before the skills test. Verify current testing locations, fee schedules, and appointment availability at portal.ct.gov/DMV.
Connecticut CDL and the Northeast corridor
Connecticut CDL holders frequently operate in the dense Northeast freight corridor connecting New York, New Jersey, and southern New England. Urban delivery operations in Connecticut's cities (Bridgeport, New Haven, Hartford) involve navigating restricted-clearance routes and local traffic regulations in addition to federal CDL requirements. CDL holders transporting into New York City should be aware of NY's additional vehicle restrictions and permitting requirements. Verify CDL requirements at portal.ct.gov/DMV.
Before you apply or renew
These steps apply regardless of state. Verify each requirement directly with the Connecticut 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 Connecticut 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. Connecticut state requirements for submitting or updating medical certification vary — check the Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) website for the current procedure.
For Connecticut-specific medical certificate submission procedures, start at the Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) website .
- Learn about medical card requirements: DOT Medical Card Explained
- Track expiration dates: Medical Card Expiration Tracker
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 Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) does not administer ELDT — training is completed at a registered provider before you schedule the skills test.
- Find an ELDT provider: FMCSA Training Provider Registry
- See who needs ELDT: Who Needs ELDT?
- ELDT for small fleets and owner-operators: ELDT for Small Fleets
Federal references
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.