Arizona CDL Requirements 2025: Complete Step-by-Step Guide

Getting your Commercial Driver's License in Arizona doesn't have to be complicated. This comprehensive guide walks you through every requirement, document, and step needed to obtain your CDL in the Grand Canyon State.

Quick Eligibility Checklist

Before diving into details, ensure you meet these basic requirements:

✅ Age: 18+ for intrastate, 21+ for interstate
✅ Valid Arizona driver's license (or ability to obtain one)
✅ English proficiency (read, write, speak)
✅ Physical ability to safely operate a CMV
✅ Clean enough driving record (no DUI in past 3 years)
✅ Legal presence in the United States

Step 1: Obtain Your Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP)

Documents You'll Need

Bring ALL of these to the MVD:

Identity & Legal Presence (1 required):

• Valid US Passport OR
• Certified birth certificate AND government-issued photo ID
• Permanent Resident Card
• Employment Authorization Card with photo

Social Security Number Proof (1 required):

• Social Security card
• W-2 form
• SSA-1099 form
• Pay stub with full SSN

Arizona Residency (2 required):

• Utility bill (within 90 days)
• Bank statement
• Lease agreement
• Vehicle registration
• Voter registration card

CLP Written Tests

You must pass these exams:

| Test | Questions | Passing Score | Topics Covered | |------|-----------|---------------|----------------| | General Knowledge | 50 | 80% | Basic CMV operation, safety, regulations | | Air Brakes | 25 | 80% | Air brake systems, inspection, operation | | Combination Vehicles | 20 | 80% | Coupling/uncoupling, jackknifing, inspections |

Pro Tip: Study the Arizona CDL Manual thoroughly. The test questions come directly from this manual.

CLP Fees

• Written test fee: $25 per attempt
• CLP license fee: $25
• Total first-time cost: $50

Step 2: Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT)

As of February 7, 2022, federal law requires ELDT from a registered training provider.

What ELDT Includes:

Theory Instruction (Minimum 30 hours):

• Basic operation
• Safe operating procedures
• Advanced operating practices
• Vehicle systems and reporting
• Non-driving activities

Behind-the-Wheel Training:

• Range exercises (backing, turning, parking)
• Public road driving (city, highway, rural)
• Pre-trip inspection training

Important: Only schools listed on FMCSA's Training Provider Registry (TPR) can provide valid ELDT. TDSA is fully registered and compliant.

Step 3: DOT Physical Examination

Medical Requirements

You need a DOT physical from a certified medical examiner. You must meet these standards:

Vision:

• 20/40 or better in each eye (with or without correction)
• 70° peripheral vision in horizontal meridian
• Ability to distinguish red, green, and amber colors

Hearing:

• Hear forced whisper at 5 feet OR
• Average hearing loss less than 40 dB

Blood Pressure:

• Below 140/90 for 2-year certificate
• 140/90 to 159/99 requires annual recertification
• 160/100 or higher: disqualified until controlled

Diabetes:

• Controlled diabetes is allowed
• Must provide treatment records
• May require more frequent medical exams

Disqualifying Conditions

• Epilepsy or seizure disorders
• Certain heart conditions
• Respiratory dysfunction
• Loss of limb (without waiver)
• Certain mental disorders
• Current alcoholism
• Use of Schedule I drugs or marijuana

Cost: $75-$150 (shop around for best price)

Step 4: CDL Skills Testing

After completing ELDT and holding your CLP for 14 days minimum, you're eligible for skills testing.

Three-Part Skills Test

1. Pre-Trip Inspection (≈45 minutes)

You'll demonstrate knowledge of:

• Engine compartment checks
• Cab checks (gauges, controls, emergency equipment)
• External inspection (lights, tires, brakes, coupling)
• In-cab brake check
• Trailer inspection (doors, landing gear, tandem release)

Must identify and explain defects that would make vehicle unsafe.

2. Basic Controls Skills (≈30 minutes)

Performed on closed course:

• Straight-line backing (50 feet)
• Offset back (right or left)
• Parallel parking (driver's side or conventional)
• 90-degree alley dock

Points deducted for:

• Pullups (stopping and pulling forward)
• Encroachments (crossing boundaries)
• Outside looks (getting out to check position)

3. Road Test (≈45 minutes)

On public roads, demonstrating:

• Left and right turns
• Interstate/highway driving
• Railroad crossing procedures
• Urban and rural roads
• Lane changes and merging
• Intersections and traffic signals

Age-Specific Requirements

18-20 Years Old (Intrastate Only)

• Can drive within Arizona only
• Cannot cross state lines
• Cannot transport hazardous materials
• Limited job opportunities

21+ Years Old (Interstate)

• Can drive across state lines
• Eligible for all endorsements
• Maximum job opportunities
• Higher earning potential

Criminal History Considerations

What WILL Disqualify You:

Lifetime Disqualification:

• Using CMV in felony involving controlled substances
• Leaving accident scene in CMV
• Using CMV to commit felony

Temporary Disqualifications:

• DUI: 1 year (3 years if hauling hazmat)
• Second DUI: Lifetime ban
• Railroad crossing violations: 60 days to 1 year
• Out-of-service violations: 90 days to 5 years

What WON'T Necessarily Disqualify You:

• Old misdemeanors (depends on employer)
• Non-driving felonies (after time served)
• Traffic tickets (if not excessive)

Best approach: Be honest about your history. Many companies hire people with records.

Special Endorsements

Available Endorsements:

| Endorsement | Code | Requirements | Opens Doors To | |-------------|------|--------------|----------------| | Hazmat | H | TSA background check, written test | Higher pay, fuel hauling | | Tanker | N | Written test only | Liquid hauling, milk routes | | Double/Triple | T | Written test only | FedEx, UPS linehaul | | Passenger | P | Written test + road test | Bus driving, shuttles | | School Bus | S | All passenger requirements + more | School districts |

Restrictions to Avoid:

E - No Manual Transmission

• Limits job opportunities by 30-40%
• Reduces earning potential
• Can't drive older trucks
• Harder to become owner-operator

Why TDSA trains manual only: No restrictions = more opportunities

Timeline: CLP to CDL

Realistic Timeline at TDSA:

Week 1:

• Days 1-2: Get CLP at MVD
• Days 3-5: Begin classroom training

Week 2:

• Continue theory instruction
• Start range exercises
• Pre-trip inspection practice

Week 3:

• Public road driving
• Advanced maneuvers
• Test preparation

Week 3-4:

• CDL skills test (often on-site)
• Receive CDL same day if passed

Total time: 3-4 weeks from start to CDL in hand

Costs Breakdown

MVD Fees:

• CLP written tests: $25
• CLP license: $25
• CDL skills test: $25
• CDL license: $25-$35
• Total MVD fees: ≈$100-$110

Additional Costs:

• DOT physical: $75-$150
• TSA background (Hazmat): $86.50
• Training: $3,550-$4,000 (TDSA)

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Not studying the manual thoroughly

   • The tests are harder than you think
   • Questions are word-for-word from manual

2. Choosing automatic transmission training

   • Permanently limits your career
   • Can't remove restriction without full retest

3. Waiting too long between CLP and CDL

   • CLP expires after 1 year
   • Skills deteriorate without practice

4. Not checking training provider registration

   • Non-registered training won't count
   • You'll have to start over

5. Hiding medical conditions

   • Will be discovered eventually
   • Can lead to license revocation

Arizona-Specific Tips

Best MVD Locations for CDL Services:

• Phoenix North (Cave Creek Rd): Shortest wait times
• Mesa (Country Club): Most experienced with CDL
• Tucson (Oracle): Good for southern Arizona residents

Third-Party Testing Advantage:

TDSA offers on-site third-party testing:

• No MVD appointment needed
• Test in familiar trucks
• Same-day CDL issuance
• Less stressful environment

Your Action Plan

This Week:

1. ✅ Gather required documents
2. ✅ Schedule DOT physical
3. ✅ Study Arizona CDL manual
4. ✅ Contact TDSA about enrollment

Next Steps:

1. 📝 Pass CLP tests at MVD
2. 🚛 Enroll in ELDT program
3. 💪 Complete training
4. 🎯 Pass CDL skills test
5. 💼 Start your new career!

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I get a CDL with a DUI on my record? A: Yes, if it's been more than 3 years and you've completed all requirements. Some companies hire after 5 years.

Q: Do I need a perfect driving record? A: No. Minor violations are usually okay. Major violations or patterns of violations are problematic.

Q: What if I fail the test? A: You can retake it. At TDSA, we provide additional training at no charge if you don't pass the first time.

Q: Is the Arizona CDL valid in other states? A: Yes! CDLs are federally regulated and valid nationwide. If you move, you'll need to transfer it to your new state within 30 days.

Ready to Start Your CDL Journey?

Don't let the requirements overwhelm you. At TDSA, we guide you through every step:

• Help with MVD paperwork
• DOT physical scheduling assistance
• Comprehensive test preparation
• On-site testing available
• Job placement assistance

Take the first step today: 📞 Call: 623-207-1231 📍 Visit: 919 N Dysart Rd Suite O, Avondale, AZ 💻 Apply: [Contact form]

Your new career is just 3-4 weeks away!

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Truck Driving Schools of America is a registered ELDT provider, authorized third-party tester, and your partner in launching a successful trucking career. We've helped hundreds of Arizona residents get their CDL quickly and efficiently.