Michigan CDL Resources
Michigan Secretary of State
This page collects official CDL resources for Michigan: the state licensing agency, CDL handbook, testing locations, and renewal information. All links go directly to official Michigan government sources. Requirements change — always verify current procedures directly with the Michigan Secretary of State.
Official resources to check first
Michigan CDL resources are managed by the Secretary of State (michigan.gov/sos). Verify at michigan.gov/sos.
No direct CDL handbook link is listed for Michigan yet. Visit the Michigan Secretary of State website and look for a "CDL Manual," "Commercial Driver Handbook," or similar link.
CDL licensing through Michigan SOS
Michigan CDL licensing is handled by the Secretary of State (not a separate DMV). Knowledge tests and CLP issuance are done at Michigan SOS branch offices. The CLP must be held at least 14 days before the CDL skills test. New Class A and Class B applicants must complete ELDT. Michigan allows authorized third-party testers for CDL skills testing. The Michigan SOS website and online appointment system are the starting point for all CDL transactions.
Michigan CDL and the auto/freight industry
Michigan's manufacturing and automotive sector generates significant commercial vehicle activity. Many Michigan CDL holders work in auto transport and heavy haul operations. Oversize and overweight permit requirements for Michigan's roads are separate from CDL licensing and are managed by the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) — check MDOT for current permit requirements if you operate non-standard loads. Verify CDL-specific requirements at michigan.gov/sos.
Before you apply or renew
These steps apply regardless of state. Verify each requirement directly with the Michigan Secretary of State 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 Michigan Secretary of State.
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. Michigan state requirements for submitting or updating medical certification vary — check the Michigan Secretary of State website for the current procedure.
For Michigan-specific medical certificate submission procedures, start at the Michigan Secretary of State 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 Michigan Secretary of State 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.