The great state of Oklahoma is well-positioned to be a home base for commercial truck drivers since it’s relatively central from coast to coast. And the demand for commercial drivers has never been higher. Truck driver shortages continue to be a problem across the country, and Oklahoma is no exception. If you’re ready to embark on this great career, see the country with good pay, and be in demand, let’s take a look at the requirements on how to get your CDL in Oklahoma.
Oklahoma State CDL Requirements
For the most complete information, check out the Oklahoma CDL requirements on the state’s department of public safety (DPS) website. But if you want a great summary to get you started, help you figure out the info you need, and guide you to a top-notch CDL training program, you’re in the right place. Let’s dive into the highlights of what it takes to get an Oklahoma CDL:
- Provide proof of U.S. citizenship or Lawful Permanent Residence status
- Provide proof of OK residency
- Have a valid OK driver’s license
- Have a DOT medical card from having passed a DOT physical
- Complete an Entry Level Driver Training (ELDT) program
- Have a CLPfor a minimum of 14 days
- Pass skills test
Receive Your CDL Permit
Before you can take the skills test and apply for your CDL, you have to receive your Commercial Learner’s Permit, sometimes also called a CLP. You must have it for a minimum of 14 days before you can take the skills test. Just like you had a driver’s permit before you got a driver’s license, you have to meet a few requirements, learn about the commercial vehicle you’ll be operating, and pass a knowledge test. In order to receive your OK CLP, you’ll need to:
- Be 18 years old for driving in OK or 21 for driving between other states
- Pass a knowledge test
- Provide your Social Security Number
- Complete a DOT physical, including hearing and vision screening
You don’t have to have a CLP prior to enrolling in an ELDT program.
Receive CDL Training in Oklahoma
When you’re ready for CDL training, Oklahoma and every other state across the country require you to go through a Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) approved training program. This makes sure every commercial driver receives the same baseline training.
Not only will a CDL school provide you with the skills and knowledge you need to pass the tests, it makes sure other commercial drivers that you’re sharing the roads with have also received sufficient training. And when you attend school at your local MTC Truck Driver Training school in Tulsa, you’ll be more than ready. We don’t believe in doing the bare minimum. We want you to complete your training for an Oklahoma CDL with confidence that you’re road-ready.
How Long Does It Take To Get a CDL in Oklahoma?
Our Oklahoma CDL training course is 160 hours and combines classroom, road, and range training. When attending full time it takes three to four weeks to complete CDL training.