The Complete Guide To A Career In Trucking
Age, Language, Residency, & Education Requirements for CDL Drivers
The FMCSA requires in its regulations minimum age, U.S. residency status, and English language proficiency requirements that all commercial motor vehicle operators must adhere to.
Each state, in addition, may have their own specific length-of-residency or licensing minimums. Most companies will have a minimum hiring age, as well, that may be higher than the minimum of 21 years old.
What is the minimum age for CDL drivers?
Minimum age for interstate driving for CDL drivers is 21 years old. Intrastate driving only requires an applicant be 18-20 years old, depending on the state regulations.
Federal regulations set 21 as the age which drivers can legally drive CMV's across state lines. Always check with your individual state DMV for specifics on your state's requirements.
A person shall not drive a commercial motor vehicle unless he/she is qualified to drive a commercial motor vehicle. FMCSA requirements call for interstate drivers to be at least 21 years old.
While most states will set a minimum age of 18 years old for intrastate driving, you should always be up-to-date on their individual rules.
Do I need to speak English to become a truck driver?
Yes, all CMV drivers must be able to, in English:
- Converse with the general public
- Understand highway & traffic signs
- Respond to official inquiries
- Makes entries on report & records
FMCSA - You Must Read & Speak English to Drive Trucks in the U.S. Brochure
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSRs) require all drivers operating trucks in the United States to be able to read and speak the English language sufficiently
FMCSA - Qualifications of Drivers & LCV Instructors
Can read and speak the English language sufficiently to converse with the general public, to understand highway traffic signs and signals in the English language
Do I need to be a U.S. citizen to get my CDL? How long do I have to be in the U.S.?
No, but potential drivers must be in the U.S. and on record as lawful permanent residents and will be required to produce a valid, unexpired, Permanent Resident Card. U.S. citizens will be required to produce a birth certificate, Certificate of Naturalization, or other acceptable proof of citizenship.
While there is no minimum time that a non-citizen must have been in the U.S. to apply for a CDL, some states require having a year of permanent residency and/or driver's license before a driver is allowed to get a CDL.
Commercial Drivers License Standards - Residency Requirements
The person must provide to the State proof of citizenship or lawful permanent residency or obtain a Non-domiciled CLP.
State CDL Manuals, Requirements, And DMV Links
Always check with your state of residence or domicile as their rules may be stricter than the FMCSA regulations.
What are the education requirements for truck drivers?
The FMCSA doesn't set out any minimum education requirements for getting your CDL, but many, if not most, trucking companies and schools will require an applicant to have a high school diploma or GED.
Forum - Do I really need a GED to go to trucking school?
Most schools and companies do not want to spend money or waste time on students and employees that may not finish school. With a GED or High School Diploma their is at least some history that you have the basic language, writing and math skills.
Forum - Where to start finding trucking job without diploma or GED?
So I am looking at becoming a truck driver. I am looking at attending some school's but they all want a GED or Diploma which I don't have. I was told go get a physical and study for the test. If the school doesn't want people without a GED I am now stuck.
Why Join Trucking Truth?
- The High Road Training Program
- The High Road Article Series
- The Friendliest Trucker's Forum Ever!
- Email Updates When New Articles Are Posted
Apply For Paid CDL Training Through TruckingTruth
Did you know you can fill out one quick form here on TruckingTruth and apply to several companies at once for paid CDL training? Seriously! The application only takes one minute. You will speak with recruiters today. There is no obligation whatsoever. Learn more and apply here:
TT On Facebook