Delaware CDL Requirements

Delaware CDL Classes and Requirements

Delaware issues three classes of Commercial Driver's Licenses (CDL) following federal regulations under 49 CFR Parts 383-391. Each class allows you to operate different types of commercial motor vehicles.

Class A CDL

A Class A CDL allows you to operate:

• Combination vehicles with a GVWR of 26,001+ pounds
• Towed vehicle weighing more than 10,000 pounds
• Tractor-trailers, truck and trailer combinations
• Tanker trucks, livestock carriers, flatbeds with trailers

Class B CDL

A Class B CDL permits operation of:

• Single vehicles with GVWR of 26,001+ pounds
• Small trailers under 10,000 pounds
• Straight trucks, large buses, segmented buses
• Box trucks, dump trucks with small trailers

Class C CDL

A Class C CDL is required for vehicles under 26,001 pounds GVWR when:

• Designed to transport 16+ passengers (including driver)
• Transporting hazardous materials requiring placards
• School buses, passenger vans, hazmat vehicles

Age Requirements

Delaware follows federal age restrictions for CDL licensing:

• Age 18+: Intrastate CDL operation within Delaware only
• Age 21+: Interstate CDL operation across state lines
• Age 21+: Required for hazardous materials endorsement

Many Delaware CDL training programs require applicants to be at least 21 years old for long-haul commercial driving positions.

Knowledge Test Requirements

All CDL applicants must pass written knowledge tests at a Delaware DMV office before receiving a CDL learner's permit. Required tests vary by license class and desired endorsements.

Required Knowledge Tests

All CDL Classes:

• General Knowledge test (required for all applicants)

Class A CDL:

• General Knowledge test
• Combination Vehicles test
• Air Brakes test (if vehicle has air brakes)

Class B CDL:

• General Knowledge test
• Air Brakes test (if vehicle has air brakes)

Class C CDL:

• General Knowledge test
• Additional tests based on vehicle type

Endorsement Tests

• P - Passenger: For vehicles carrying 16+ passengers
• S - School Bus: For school bus operation
• N - Tank Vehicle: For tank trucks
• H - Hazardous Materials: For hazmat transport
• X - Tank + Hazmat: Combined tank and hazmat
• T - Double/Triple Trailers: For multiple trailer combinations

Skills Test (Road Test)

After passing knowledge tests and obtaining your CDL learner's permit, you must pass a three-part skills test administered by Delaware DMV.

Skills Test Components

1. Pre-trip Vehicle Inspection: Demonstrate ability to inspect your vehicle safely
2. Basic Vehicle Control: Show proficiency in backing, turning, and maneuvering
3. On-road Driving: Safe operation in traffic conditions

Skills Test Modernization

Beginning February 26, 2025, Delaware is implementing modernized CDL skills testing at all DMV locations. The new format includes updated pre-trip and basic control protocols with streamlined checklists while maintaining the same skill evaluation standards.

Required Documents for Skills Test

• Valid CDL learner's permit
• Valid driver license for accompanying driver (age 21+)
• Valid vehicle registration and insurance
• Appropriate test vehicle for your CDL class

Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT)

Federal ELDT requirements apply to certain Delaware CDL applicants as of February 7, 2022. Training must be completed through an FMCSA-approved provider before testing.

Who Needs ELDT

ELDT is required for:

• First-time Class A or Class B CDL applicants
• CDL class upgrades (C to B, C to A, B to A)
• First-time School Bus (S), Passenger (P), or Hazardous Materials (H) endorsements

ELDT Exemptions

Drivers who held a CDL or covered endorsement before February 7, 2022, are generally exempt unless upgrading or adding new endorsements.

Medical Certification Requirements

All CDL holders must maintain current DOT medical certification. Delaware follows federal medical qualification standards under 49 CFR Part 391.

Medical Exam Process

• Examination by FMCSA-certified medical examiner
• Medical Examiner's Certificate (Form MCSA-5876)
• Electronic transmission of results to Delaware DMV
• Renewal typically required every 2 years

Failure to maintain medical certification will result in CDL downgrade or disqualification.

CDL Endorsements

Delaware offers standard federal endorsements requiring additional knowledge and/or skills testing:

Testing Locations and Scheduling

CDL testing is conducted at Delaware DMV offices throughout the state:

• Wilmington DMV (New Castle County)
• New Castle DMV
• Dover DMV (Kent County)
• Georgetown DMV (Sussex County)

Schedule your CDL skills test in advance through the Delaware DMV online appointment system or by calling your local DMV office.

Fees and Costs

Note: Delaware may update fees by regulation. Always verify current fees on the Delaware DMV website before applying.

Delaware-Specific Requirements

Non-CDL Class A and B Licenses

Delaware issues Non-CDL Class A and B licenses for exempt operations including:

• Farm vehicles
• Emergency vehicles with CDL waivers
• Recreational vehicles used solely for personal purposes

Serious Traffic Violations

Delaware enforces strict CDL disqualification for serious violations including:

• Excessive speeding (15+ mph over limit)
• Reckless driving
• Improper lane changes
• Following too closely
• Using handheld devices while operating CMV

Reciprocity and Transfers

Delaware participates in the federal CDL interstate system and recognizes valid out-of-state CDLs. When transferring a CDL to Delaware:

• Surrender your out-of-state CDL
• Complete Delaware CDL application
• Pass vision screening
• May need to retake hazmat knowledge test and TSA background check

How to Apply for Your Delaware CDL

1. Study the Delaware CDL Manual available on the DMV website
2. Complete ELDT training if required for your situation
3. Gather required documents:
   • Proof of identity and Social Security number
   • Proof of Delaware residency
   • Current DOT medical certificate
   • Current driver license
4. Visit a Delaware DMV office to:
   • Complete CDL application
   • Pass vision screening
   • Take required knowledge tests
   • Receive CDL learner's permit
5. Practice driving with your learner's permit
6. Schedule and pass skills test at Delaware DMV
7. Receive your Delaware CDL

For specific questions about ELDT requirements, contact FMCSA at 800-832-5660 or the Delaware FMCSA Field Office at 302-734-8173.