Most states across the U.S. require the same things to obtain a commercial drivers’ license. The minimum requirements are you must be 18 years of age, pass the vision screening with a 20/40 result, be deemed physically fit and capable by a qualified physician, and you cannot have had your current license, revoked, denied or suspended over the past 2 years. If you are applying for a CDL License, New Jersey among most other states, ask that you also possess a valid class D driver’s license. But here’s something that is a little different – you must provide identification materials that are rated using a 6-point ID verification program.
How the Program Works
You must show government issued documents that are considered primary and secondary. Each piece has points associated with it and your points need to total 6. Some forms of primary identification include civil birth certificates (4 points), civil marriage certificates (3 points) and US passports (4 points). Secondary pieces of identification are worth 1 point each and include your current New Jersey driver’s license, bank statements or a signed ATM card, or a utility bill.
What Happens Once You Qualify?
You’ve supplied your documentation to the Motor Vehicle Center – a permit fee is charged and this covers the background check, processing and testing. At this time, you will also need to apply for endorsements. Each endorsement has a letter assigned as follows: H – hazardous materials, L – trucks equipped with air brakes, N – tank vehicle that is transporting large amounts of liquid or gases, P – passenger vehicles like buses, S – school buses, and T – double and/or triple trailers. Keep in mind that some endorsements require additional training to get your CDL License. New Jersey for example, states that if moving hazardous materials, you will be required to take extra specialized training to obtain a placard. The placard is to be placed on the vehicle to inform others that dangerous cargo is being transported. And for passenger vehicles including school buses, a special road test and fingerprinting will be required.
One Step Closer to Obtaining Your Commercial Driver’s License
To be able to successfully pass the road test, training is recommended. Professional driving schools are able to provide hands-on experience so that once you are ready to schedule your test at a regional service or driver testing center; you will have the knowledge and confidence to pass. A minimum of 80% is required.
If you are looking for information on training programs, job placement or training in general, please visit Smithsolomon.com. They have you covered for all your training needs. For more information read more.
