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What This Guide Covers About Maryland CDL Requirements
A Maryland Commercial Driver's License (CDL) is required if you operate certain types of vehicles for work. This guide provides information about the rules and steps involved in getting a CDL in Maryland. The guide explains what documents you need, what the testing process involves, and what different CDL classes mean.
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Maryland's CDL program follows federal standards set by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). This means the basic rules are similar across all states, but Maryland has specific requirements and procedures you should know about. The guide walks through Maryland's Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) requirements step by step.
One key point the guide covers is that a CDL is different from a regular driver's license. You cannot simply renew a regular license and get a CDL. The process involves written tests, a practical driving test, and medical certification. The guide explains each of these components so you understand what to expect.
The guide also describes the different classes of CDLs available. A Class A CDL allows you to drive the largest trucks. A Class B CDL covers smaller commercial vehicles. A Class C CDL is for vehicles carrying passengers or hazardous materials. Understanding which class you need depends on the type of vehicle you'll drive.
Practical takeaway: Before starting any process, read through the relevant sections about which CDL class fits the work you plan to do. This helps you understand which requirements apply to your situation.
Understanding CDL Classes and Vehicle Types in Maryland
Maryland recognizes three main CDL classes, each designed for different vehicle types and work purposes. The guide explains these categories in detail so you know which one matches your job requirements.
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A Class A CDL is the highest level. It allows you to drive combination vehicles with a total weight of 26,001 pounds or more, as long as the trailer weighs 10,001 pounds or more. This includes tractor-trailers, semi-trucks, and other large rigs used for long-haul trucking, construction transport, and similar work. Class A holders may also drive Class B and Class C vehicles if needed.
A Class B CDL covers single vehicles with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 26,001 pounds or more. These include large straight trucks, dump trucks, and concrete mixers. Class B drivers can also operate Class C vehicles. This class is common for local delivery, waste management, and construction work where you drive one large vehicle rather than pulling a trailer.
A Class C CDL is required for smaller vehicles that carry 16 or more passengers (including the driver) or any vehicle carrying hazardous materials. This includes buses, passenger vans for commercial purposes, and smaller trucks transporting regulated materials. Some Class C requirements apply differently based on whether you're carrying passengers or materials.
The guide also explains endorsements and restrictions. An endorsement is a special qualification added to your CDL for specific situations. For example, a "Hazmat" (hazardous materials) endorsement is needed if you transport dangerous goods. A "Passenger" (P) endorsement is required for bus driving. The guide describes what endorsements exist and which ones you might need.
Restrictions work the opposite way—they limit what you can do with your CDL. For example, if you fail the air brake test, your license may have an air brake restriction, meaning you can only drive vehicles without air brakes.
Practical takeaway: Write down the specific vehicle type you'll be driving, including its weight and cargo type. Match this against the CDL class descriptions in the guide. This tells you which class to pursue and which endorsements you'll need.
Required Documents and Medical Certification for Maryland CDL
The guide provides a detailed checklist of documents you'll need to bring to the Maryland MVA office. Having these documents ready before you visit saves time and prevents delays in the process. Missing documents may mean you cannot complete certain steps on your first visit.
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First, you need a valid form of identification. An acceptable ID includes your current Maryland driver's license, passport, birth certificate with a photo ID, or a military ID. The MVA uses this to verify your identity and conduct background checks.
Second, you need proof of Maryland residency. Recent documents that work for this include a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or government correspondence addressed to your home. The document should be from the last 60 days and show your current address. If you recently moved to Maryland, bring documentation showing your move date.
Third, Maryland requires a medical certification form (MCSA-5876). This form must be completed by a certified medical examiner—not your regular doctor, unless they have specific federal certification. The form covers vision, hearing, blood pressure, diabetes, and other health factors. The medical examiner certifies whether you can safely operate a commercial vehicle. The guide explains what to expect during this exam and why it matters. You must pass this exam before you can get your CDL, and the certification is valid for two years.
If you have a commercial permit already, bring it with you. Bring your Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). If you're under 18 (which is unusual for CDL applicants but possible in some cases), bring proof that you meet work permit requirements.
The guide also mentions the Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP). To get a CLP, you need to pass a written test first. Many people get their CLP before scheduling the road test, since the CLP shows you've studied and understand the rules. The CLP is required before you can take the practical driving test for a full CDL.
Practical takeaway: Create a folder with copies of all required documents now, before you visit the MVA. Schedule your medical exam at a certified examiner several weeks in advance, as appointments fill up quickly. This preparation means you'll have everything ready when you're prepared to move forward.
Written Tests and Knowledge Requirements for Maryland CDL
The guide explains the written testing process for obtaining a CDL in Maryland. These tests cover traffic rules, vehicle safety, and driving techniques specific to commercial vehicles. The written test comes before the practical driving test and is required to get your Commercial Learner's Permit.
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The general knowledge test is required for all CDL applicants. This test covers basic commercial driving rules: how to inspect vehicles, how to brake safely with heavy loads, how to handle different weather conditions, and how to follow federal regulations. The test has 50 questions, and you must answer at least 40 correctly to pass. The guide provides information about the topics covered so you can study effectively.
Depending on the CDL class you're seeking, you may need additional tests. For a Class A CDL, you need the air brakes test. Air brakes work differently than regular hydraulic brakes found on cars, and the test ensures you understand this system. For a Class B CDL, the air brakes test is optional but recommended if your vehicle has air brakes. The air brakes test has 25 questions, and you must answer at least 20 correctly.
If you're pursuing a Hazmat endorsement, you'll take the hazardous materials test. This test has 30 questions covering how to safely handle, transport, and document dangerous goods. You must answer at least 24 questions correctly. The hazmat test also requires a background check, which the guide explains.
For passenger vehicle operation (buses or commercial vans), you take the passenger test. This covers loading procedures, passenger safety, emergency exits, and handling passenger situations. The test has 20 questions, and you must answer at least 16 correctly.
The guide includes study tips and resources. Maryland MVA publishes an official CDL manual that covers all test material. Many people study this manual several weeks before testing. The guide suggests reviewing one section at a time, taking practice tests, and focusing on areas where you're less confident. The actual test is computer-based at the MVA office, where you sit at a computer and answer questions.
Practical takeaway: Obtain the official Maryland CDL manual and set aside study time each week. Take online practice tests (available through various sources) to gauge your knowledge. Aim to score 90 percent or higher on practice tests before taking the official exam.
The Road Test and Practical Driving Evaluation in Maryland
The guide describes what happens during the practical driving test,
This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.