North Carolina CDL Resources

North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles (NCDMV)

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

Official resources to check first

North Carolina CDL resources are managed by NCDMV (ncdot.gov/dmv). Verify current requirements at ncdot.gov/dmv.

CDL Licensing · North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles (NCDMV) North Carolina CDL — North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles (NCDMV) https://www.ncdot.gov/DMV/Pages/default.aspx
State Driver Licensing Agency · North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles (NCDMV) North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles (NCDMV) — Main Website https://www.ncdot.gov/dmv/

No direct CDL handbook link is listed for North Carolina yet. Visit the North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles (NCDMV) website and look for a "CDL Manual," "Commercial Driver Handbook," or similar link.

CDL licensing through NCDMV

North Carolina CDL applicants apply through the NC Division of Motor Vehicles. Knowledge tests and issuance of the Commercial Learner's Permit are handled at NCDMV driver license 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 before the skills test. North Carolina uses both state and authorized third-party CDL skills testers. Check ncdot.gov/dmv for current testing locations and appointment options.

North Carolina CDL endorsements

North Carolina CDL holders adding endorsements must pass the applicable knowledge test at an NCDMV location. HazMat endorsement applicants must complete a TSA security threat assessment before the endorsement is added. School bus endorsement requires both a knowledge and skills test. Passenger endorsement is required for vehicles designed to carry 16 or more passengers including the driver. Verify current endorsement fees and procedures at ncdot.gov/dmv.

Before you apply or renew

These steps apply regardless of state. Verify each requirement directly with the North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles (NCDMV) 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 North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles (NCDMV).

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