CLD or Commercial Driver’s License is a license that allows you to drive a commercial vehicle, bus or truck in Atlanta, Georgia. All drivers of commercial vehicles must own a Commercial Driver’s License.
In order to obtain a Commercial Driver’s License, you must go through the Georgia DDS. You will have to go through a road test and only if you pass the test, will you be given a valid commercial driver’s license.
Applying for a Commercial Driver’s License is easy. You can simply fill the application form at a fee of $35.00 and take the exam at a DDS customer service station. An additional permit of $10 is also charged, which is returned upon the successful completion of the exam. In case you are unable to clear the test, you will not be returned this fee.
What the different types of Commercial Driver’s Licenses?
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There are 3 basic Commercial Driver’s License classifications:
- Class A: This type is for truck trailers or tractor-semi trailers in which the weight exceeds 26,001 pounds and the unit being towed exceeds 10,000 pounds.
- Class B: This type is for single vehicles that weigh 26,001 or more pounds and the unit being towed is less than 10,000 pounds.
- Class C: This type is for vehicles that are specifically designed to transport sixteen or more passengers, including the driver. They may also be used to carry hazardous supplies.
What is eligibility to obtain a Commercial Driver’s License?
A driver applying for a Commercial Driver’s License must be at least 18 years old. Between the ages of 18 to 21 years old, drivers are only permitted to drive in Georgia. After a driver’s 21st birthday, they can undertake an exam. If you qualify in the exam you can be eligible to drive outside of Georgia.
What are the kinds of vehicles that require the driver to have a Commercial Driver’s License?
- Vehicles weighing 26, 001 pounds or more,
- Vehicles used to transport more than 15 people including the driver
- Vehicles used to transport hazardous materials.
How much money can you make as a Commercial Driver?
Commercial driving is a very crucial job. Commercial trucking companies etc are always in search of good drivers. As a licensed commercial driver you can expect to earn $500 a week. Most jobs are based on the number of hours you put in, but it is never difficult to find work.
How long does it take to become a licensed Commercial Driver?
A Class A program normally takes seven to eight weeks to complete. Classes are held for 5 days in a week. Class A programs are also the longest as they are valid for a host of vehicles as compared to Class B and Class C programs. Class B and Class C programs take half the amount of time as Class A programs to complete.
How much does it cost to become a Commercial Driver?
Generally, driving schools cost between $3,000 and $7,000 for a program. The fees may vary depending on which class of commercial driving you opt for. For example, Daly’s Truck Driving School costs between $1,495 to $4,000 depending on the classification.
The good thing is that most companies hire you and then train you along the way either for free or for a certain part of your salary. Here are some examples of companies that offer free training, at the end of which they hire you:
In addition to these companies, CRST’s Training Program offers training however they deduct not more than $40 per week for your training from your salary after you begin working for them. You can also take their training for $2,500.