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Just like a standard driver's license, a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) expires and requires renewal. Because of this, it's important for truck drivers to make sure their license is up to date.
At Schneider, we encourage all our drivers to follow safe and responsible practices, and that includes making sure their CDL is current. This ensures they remain legally compliant and avoid any complications that could disrupt their driving job.
To help you out, we’ve answered common questions on “How long is a CDL license good for?” and explained the renewal process below.
How long does a CDL last?
A CDL is typically good for four to eight years, depending on which state you get it in. Be sure to check with your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to find out how long a CDL is valid for in your state.
On top of the expiration date of the CDL itself, drivers must also be mindful of other elements that impact the status of their license:
Medical certification.
A valid Medical Examiner's Certificate, obtained by passing a DOT physical, is needed to maintain a CDL.
Medical Examiner's Certificates are usually valid for up to two years. The examiner might set a shorter certification period based on certain health conditions, though. Either way, this means you will renew your medical card more often than your CDL.
At Schneider, we help drivers find a Certified Medical Examiner (CME) for their DOT physical and assist in covering the cost of the exam.
Endorsements.
CDL endorsements also have their own renewal requirements. These can include extra testing, training and costs so it’s important to stay up to date with each endorsement.
For example, a Hazardous Materials (HazMat) endorsement typically needs to be renewed every five years. This means it may require renewal more frequently than your CDL. Because this comes with extra cost, Schneider drivers are eligible for 100% reimbursement for fingerprinting and endorsement costs related to HazMat. This includes initial endorsement and renewals.
How do you renew your CDL?
The process of renewing a CDL differs by state, but there are a few general steps to follow:
1. Keep your expiration date in mind.
Make sure you know exactly when your CDL will expire. Aim to start the renewal process at least a month in advance. You will typically receive a renewal notice from your DMV about 30 days before your CDL expires.
If you’re also renewing endorsements, it is advisable to start the process even earlier.
2. Schedule an appointment.
While some states allow you to renew your CDL online, most still require you to do some of the process in-person. Check your state’s DMV website for appointment availability and specific instructions.
3. Gather the required documents.
Regardless of how or where you renew your CDL, there are a few common documents you may need to provide to the DMV:
- Current CDL.
- Proof of identity and/or residence.
- Recent vision exam results.
- Self-certification forms.
- CDL Medical Certification.
Note that these requirements vary greatly by state. Be sure to check with your DMV’s website.
4. Pay renewal fees.
When renewing your CDL, be prepared to pay a renewal fee. The fee varies from state to state.
5. Pass any necessary tests.
Some states require you to pass a vision test to renew your CDL. Plus, if you are renewing an endorsement, recompleting knowledge and skills tests may be part of the renewal process.
If you’re renewing a HazMat endorsement, fingerprinting and a background check are also required. This can add significant time to the renewal process.
6. Receive your new CDL.
After completing the steps above, you will receive your renewed CDL. This could be issued immediately or sent to you by mail, depending on your state’s procedure.
What happens if your CDL expires?
If your CDL expires, you are no longer legally allowed to operate a commercial vehicle. Driving with an expired CDL can result in fines and other penalties, including the suspension of your driving privileges.
If your license has been expired for an extended period, you may be required to go through the entire process of getting a CDL again, including:
If you do need to get your CDL from scratch, consider exploring Schneider’s paid CDL training options to help cover the cost.
