How to Get a CDL Permit in Maryland

🛣️ How to Get a CDL Permit in Maryland – Full Step-by-Step Guide

Are you ready to take the first step toward a rewarding trucking career? It all starts with earning your Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP), the required license before you can legally train behind the wheel of a commercial vehicle.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about getting your CDL permit in Maryland, including eligibility requirements, documents you need, and where to practice.

🚦 Step 1: Make Sure You’re Eligible

Before applying for a CDL permit, you must meet the basic eligibility criteria:

✅ Be at least 18 years old (21 if you plan to drive across state lines or carry hazardous materials)
✅ Have a valid Maryland driver’s license
✅ Have a clean driving record
✅ Pass a DOT medical exam (you’ll need to provide a valid Medical Examiner’s Certificate – Form MCSA-5876)

🧾 Step 2: Gather Required Documents

To apply for your CDL permit, you’ll need the following documents:

📄 Current Maryland driver’s license
📄 Social Security card or proof of SSN
📄 Proof of Maryland residency (two pieces of mail or ID with your name and Maryland address)
📄 DOT Medical Card (valid and up-to-date)
📄 Proof of U.S. Citizenship or lawful permanent residency

📚 Step 3: Study the CDL Manual

Download and study the Maryland CDL Manual, which covers:

• General Knowledge (required for all CDL classes)

• Air Brakes (if your vehicle has them)

• Combination Vehicles (for Class A applicants)

• Passenger, School Bus, Hazmat, Tanker, Doubles/Triples (optional endorsements)

👉 Click here to download the Maryland CDL Manual

🧠 Step 4: Take Practice Exams (Highly Recommended)

You’ll need to pass the written CDL permit test, which includes:

• General Knowledge (50 questions)

• Air Brakes (25 questions, if applicable)

• Combination Vehicles (20 questions, if applicable)

For the best results, enroll in our FMCSA-certified CDL Theory Courses — built to help you pass fast and with confidence.

📝 Step 5: Apply at the MVA

Visit a Maryland MVA full-service branch (appointments recommended). Let them know you're applying for a Commercial Learner’s Permit.

Expect to:

• Pay the application fee (approx. $90 for CLP)

• Provide all required documents

• Take your CDL knowledge exams

• Pass a vision test

📍 Find a nearby Maryland MVA Branch

🪪 Step 6: Receive Your CLP

Once you pass your written exams, you’ll receive your Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP), valid for 6 months. During this time, you can begin Behind-the-Wheel (BTW) training with a licensed CDL trainer.

💡 You must hold your CLP for at least 14 days before scheduling your skills (road) test.

🚚 Ready to Start Training?

At MyCDLCoach, we provide everything you need — from FMCSA-compliant theory courses to behind-the-wheel training, and even CDL test prep + truck use.

👉 View CDL Training Programs
👉 Enroll in CDL Theory Course
👉 Contact Us for Help

🧾 Quick Summary:

🚨 Important Notes:

• You cannot operate a commercial vehicle solo with only a permit

• Your CLP is not valid outside Maryland unless you’re 21+ and properly endorsed

• Your permit does not replace your regular driver’s license

Take the first step today. Whether you want to drive locally or across the country, your journey starts with your CDL permit — and MyCDLCoach is here to help you every step of the way.