How to get Your CDL in Alabama, Arkansas and Mississippi

How to get Your CDL in Alabama, Arkansas and MississippiThis article is useful for anyone who wants to get a CDL in Alabama, Arkansas and Mississippi. If you want to learn about earning a CDL at other states, we have put together a comprehensive guide on how to get a commercial drivers license in every state of the country. googletag.cmd.push(function() googletag.display(div-gpt-ad-1472832551951-0) ) AlabamaBefore You Apply for Your CDL1. Get youdoctor to fill outthe current Department of Transportation Medical Examination Report (Form 649-F)2. Learn or reviewthe rules and regulations of commercial driving. You can study these in Alabamas Commercial Driver License Manual.How to ApplyTake the following documents to your nearest Driver License Division office (make sure to research ahead for one that handles CDLs)A current Alabama drivers licenseA Social Security card or other proof of Social Security numberYour current DOT medical certificate (from above)Proof of insurance for the te sting vehicle if you are taking the skills test$25 for the written test, $20 for the skills testLicense fees vary depending on your desiredclass of license. Class A costs $66.25 Class B costs $56.25 Class Ccosts $36.25. If you are purchasing a CDLor a license to operate only a school bus, the fee is $36.25.What to Expect When TestingFirst, on test day,you will take one or more knowledge tests (which are written), depending on the license and endorsements you want.Then, if you pass the knowledge tests, you qualify to take the skills test (which is a driving test). Another option at this point is choosing tobe issued a learners license, which will allow you to practice drivinga rig with a licensed commercial driver in the passenger seat.When you feel ready to take the on-road driving test, you can make another appointment atthe CDL licensing office.The driving skills test includes vehicle inspection (where you mustprove your vehicles safety and show your inspection skills), vehicle co ntrol (you will be asked to drive forward, backward, and in turns, in a smallarea), and the actual driving test (this tests how well you knowsigns, driving laws, and regulations).ArkansasBefore you take your certification exams, you must assess your driving record. If you have any serious offenses, likeDUI, you may be disqualified.The Knowledge TestsYou must pass the written knowledge test before you can take your road skills test. In order to familiarize yourself with the content of the exam, study the ArkansasCDL Manualto learn about driver safety, cargo safety, equipment, traffic rules, inspection procedures, and hazardous materials.To bring on test dayDocuments that prove your age and identity$42, which is the fee for your CDLIf you haul hazardous materials, you will need to have federalbackground and fingerprint check.The Road Skills TestAfter you have passed the written tests, you are ready for the road skills test.On this test, you will be asked to perform driver tasks includ ing pre-trip inspections, changing lanes, tying down cargo, and maneuvering intersections.The Arkansas CDL Manual review everything you will be tested onreview the criteria before test day so you are familiar with the tasks you will face.RequirementsYou must self-certify one of the following driving categories with the Arkansas DMVNon-Excepted InterstateExcepted InterstateNon-Excepted IntrastateExcepted IntrastateIf you choose Non-Excepted Interstate, you must provide the DMV with a federal medical certificate.MississippiTo obtain a CDL in Mississippi, you must hold aRegular Class R drivers license. You must also obtain a current medical card when applying.Testing for the CDLNext stop is to take and pass the written and skills tests. All the information you need to know about the exam is in the Professional Drivers Manual, which you can find at anydrivers license officethroughout the state. You can schedule an appointment for the driving test eitheronlineor by phone.What You Must Br ingYour valid Mississippi drivers license, a CDL learners permit, and your completed application for your desired CDLAnother driver to accompany you who holds the same class CDL license (or greater) as the one you seekA current medical cardThe same class of vehicle you will be driving once you obtain your CDL (it must pass inspection before any tests will be administered)A Social Security cardProof of residency (electric or water bill, lease agreement, vehicle-registration receipt, mortgage documents, homestead exemption receipt, bank statement, notarized employer verification on company letterhead (with a phone number) that states your address)Appropriate feesOut-of-state applicants applying for a Mississippi CDL can use their valid drivers license from another stateNote If your job entails hauling hazardous materials, you must undergo a background check. You will have to complete aDrivers License Hazardous Materials Endorsement Applicationand pay a fee.