The first step to getting your CDL license in Colorado is obtaining a commercial driving permit.  To get a CDL permit the applicant must be 18 years old, and they must use the permit with a licensed truck driver over 21.  Its important to study the Colorado CDL Driver Manual.

The requirements for a Colorado CDL permit are as follows:

• hold a valid CO drivers license
• verify social security number
• pass clean driving record checks
• Have passed a DOT medical exam within the past two years
• Pass the CDL permit written test (80% or better)

Licensing

After getting a permit the driver is able to take a licensing test when they are ready.  In Colorado these exams are given by third-party companies, and not the state DMV.  The list of testers is updated monthly on the Colorado DMV website.

The test has three main parts

• Inspecting the vehicle pre-trip
• Basic skills and knowledge
• Road skills test

After passing the test portion on the CDL test you can now apply for your CDL license.  You will need to go to a full service drivers license office and bring the following:

• Photo ID
• Social security card
• DOT medical certificate
• Passing grades (over 80%) on all written test, and proof of such
• Proof of passing the CDL driver test
• Colorado drivers license and CDL permit, both of which will be relinquished

Costs

• CDL permit $14
• CDL License $35