Utah CDL License Requirements

In order to drive a commercial vehicle in Utah, you must first obtain a Utah commercial driver's license (CDL). While classes of CDL licenses can vary slightly from state to state, Utah categorizes commercial vehicles as follows:

• Class A: Combination vehicles weighing over 26,001 lbs. with trailers weighing over 10,000 lbs.
• Class B: Vehicles weighing over 26,001 lbs. with trailers less than 10,000 lbs.
• Class C: Vehicles under 26,001 lbs. carrying sixteen or more occupants (including the driver) or trucks transporting hazardous materials

According to Utah CDL requirements, applicants must be at least 18 years old, pass a vision exam and obtain a medical certificate. The U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) regulates the transportation of cargo between states. USDOT requires all drivers who transport materials across state lines to be at least 21 years old. All CDL applicants then need to pass a general knowledge exam and a skills test, which includes a pre-trip vehicle inspection, a basic control test and an on-road driving exam. For the driving test, you must use a vehicle in the same class for which you are trying to obtain a CDL license--for example, if you wish to obtain a Class A CDL, you must test in a Class A vehicle.

To drive a truck with double/triple trailers, a truck with air brakes, a tanker truck or a school bus, additional endorsements are required. If you wish to transport passengers or hazardous materials (Hazmat), additional endorsements are also required. A background check by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is needed for a Hazmat endorsement. A truck driving school in Utah will provide you with the foundation to pass the CDL requirements and start your career in truck driving.

Resources for Utah CDL Requirements

• Utah Department of Public Safety

Learn more about Utah trucking schools.