DC DMV offers a commercial driver license (CDL) to professional drivers who reside in the District. The DC DMV CDL is a credential that complies with federal identification guidelines and can be used as a federal-level ID. It is valid for 8 years and can be renewed.
Driving a commercial motor vehicle (CMV) requires a higher level of knowledge, experience, skills, and physical abilities than driving a car or other non-commercial vehicle. To get a DC DMV CDL, you must pass both skills and knowledge testing geared to these higher standards. Additionally, as a DC DMV CDL holder, you will be held to a higher standard when you operate ANY type of motor vehicle on public roads.
DC DMV groups types of CMVs and provides a DC DMV CDL for these classes of CMV with additional endorsements and restrictions for specific types of vehicles.
To get a DC DMV CDL, you must:
- Have a valid non-commercial driver license (NCDL)
- Meet identity, residency, and good driving history eligibility qualifications
- Take the applicable CDL knowledge tests
- Get a CDL learner permit
- Pass the CDL road skills test
More information on each of the steps and requirements is available at the links below:
CDL Eligibility and Documentation
CMV Group and CDL Class and Endorsements