Getting a commercial driver’s license (CDL) is the first step toward becoming a certified driver of commercial vehicles like trucks, buses, and cargo vans. A CDL holder is held to a higher standard when operating any motor vehicle on public roads. Most drivers must obtain this license in their home state. To get a CDL, one must appear for a test that assesses driving knowledge and skills. Like any exam, clearing the test requires preparation.

Prerequisites for getting a CDL
Though the eligibility criteria for a CDL may differ slightly from state to state, you might have to meet the following requirements:

• Existing driver’s license
  Drivers must already have a non-commercial driver’s license. You may also need to have a  commercial learner’s permit (CLP) for at least 14 days before the CDL test.
• Age limit
  Those applying must be at least 18, but the minimum age for transporting hazardous products or crossing state boundaries is 21.
• Clean driving record
  Drivers must have one to two years of driving experience. Moreover, their driving histories must be clear of things that could result in suspensions, such as traffic infractions, DUIs or DWIs, skipping court, or not paying child support.
• Citizenship documents
  Drivers must have their Social Security number or birth certificate.
• Basic English
  Drivers should be able to read and communicate in English.
• Health and physical tests
  Divers must produce a certificate from a health expert stating that they have satisfactory vision and health.

Tips to prepare for the CDL test
Candidates are tested on various topics during the exam, which helps them perform their jobs safely and effectively. You can take certain steps to prepare for the exam, such as the ones given below:

Study the CDL requirements of your state
The tests conducted may vary slightly from state to state. So, the first step is learning about your location’s CDL rules and requirements. Not doing so may cause you to follow the wrong preparation method and be confused during the test. Besides understanding the kind of questions you may be asked, verify whether you meet the state’s eligibility criteria, such as age and citizenship.

Get the state-specific CDL manual
States usually publish a CDL manual summarizing the topics you must study for the test, such as driving safety, vehicle inspection, and road signs. So, get this handbook and review it thoroughly. You may pick up a printed copy by visiting your local DMV (Department of Motor Vehicles), which conducts CDL tests nearby. Alternatively, you can download the manual from their website.

Understand the basics
Most people try to memorize their books and manuals word for word. While memorizing is helpful, you will eventually forget what you have read. The key to being ready for the road is understanding the basic driving concepts and linking them to real-life situations. You can break the concepts into multiple subtopics for a better grasp. This approach makes it simpler to attempt any question in the exam. Merely trying to memorize information could leave you clueless if questions are phrased differently.

Attempt CDL practice tests
Many websites have practice tests featuring questions similar to those in the main exam. They cover various topics like speed management, changing lanes, and parking. Some websites also have CDL combination tests, which assess your knowledge about driving combination vehicles (vehicles that include a tractor unit with one or more trailers). The CDL tests available online will help you prepare well and reduce stress.

Devise simple and effective study plans
Having a strategy can help you make the most of your time as you prepare for the test. For instance, you can set aside a few hours to study and download apps that help with on-the-go learning. Creating flashcards, linking pictures to words, and attempting CDL practice tests are a few tricks to retain knowledge. Determine a suitable technique and follow it for the best results.

Remain attentive during the exam
Proper rest a day before the exam is critical. You must remain focused and never take an exam while sleepy. On the test day, eat a healthy breakfast and hydrate well. Attempting the questions on a hungry stomach can lead to distraction and confusion.

Practice different backing-up techniques
Besides a written exam, you may have to attempt a practical test to certify your driving skills. Backing up is a critical part of the practical section, so it helps to be familiar with the following backing-up techniques:

• Straight line backing
  This technique involves backing up in a straight line. You might also be forced to move forward slightly during this maneuver.
• Alley docking
  In this method, you draw ahead before backing into a space at a 90-degree angle from the vehicle. Although a trickier maneuver, knowing alley docking is handy during truck deliveries.
• Offset backing
  It involves driving out of your parking spot in a straight line and then backing up into the adjacent lane.
• Parallel parking
  It involves backing into a space between two vehicles without colliding or causing damage.

Once you get your license after passing the CDL exam at a nearby center, you are ready to drive a commercial vehicle!