Alabama CDL Permit

Get the Commercial Learners Permit (CLP)

Getting the commercial learner’s permit (CLP), involves more than just passing all the knowledge tests for the type of driving you want to do. To make sure that you are eligible your driving record is checked for the last 10 years in all 50 states and the District of Columbia. Reading and following the instructions in the Alabama CDL Manual streamlines the process.

Alabama Commercial Driver’s License Manual is a PDF file which you will need to study in order to take the written test at your DMV location. The following chart will show you the sections you need to study for the license type.

You will have to take one or more knowledge tests, depending on what class of license and what endorsements you need. Basic class A permit will include; General knowledge (50 questions), Air Brakes (25 questions), and Combination vehicles
(25 questions). You must get 80% to pass.

Alabama CDL frequently asked questions

I order to take the written exam, you will need:

  • Current driver license
  • Social Security card,  U.S. military form DD 214, W2 tax form
  • 2 Proofs of Principal Residence ***
  • If transferring from out of state, applicant must present one document from the “primary” list (in addition to the Social Security number document)
  • Current Department of Transportation long medical form (unless medically exempt)
  • $25 testing fee (no checks)
  • Transportation Security Administration background check if transferring or obtaining a hazardous materials endorsement
  • If not a U.S. citizen, applicant must legally be in permanent status in the United States and domiciled in Alabama
  • Proof of insurance
  • $36.25 to purchase commercial learner license

***Applicants must verify their address of principal residence by providing any two of the following documents:

  1. Voter Registration Card
  2. Residential Mortgage Contract
  3. Current Lease or Rental agreement for housing
  4. Proof of payment of residential property tax (Homestead)
  5. Previous year tax returns bearing applicants address
  6. Vehicle registration bearing applicants name and address
  7. Utility bill (Water, Gas, or Electric) less than 90 days old
  8. Any State or Federal Court documents indicating residence address
  9. School enrollment documentation
  10. Defense Department Form 214 (Report of Separation)
  11. Sex offender registration documents
  12. Current Homeowners insurance policy with name and address
  13. Social Security benefits statements/summary mailed to physical address
  14. U.S. or State Government check or other document mailed to applicants physical address
  15. Military Orders documenting duty station and place of residence.