Age Requirements
Fees & Costs
Fees are subject to change. Contact the Maine DMV for current rates.
Testing Information
Written Test
retake policy
May retake failed tests after waiting period
Skills Test
pre trip inspection
Comprehensive vehicle safety inspection demonstrating knowledge of critical components
basic control skills
Low-speed maneuvers including straight-line backing, offset backing, parallel parking, and alley dock
road test
On-road driving evaluation in traffic conditions
test vehicle
Must use vehicle representative of CDL class sought
minimum clp period
14 days
third party testing
Available at approved third-party testing sites
Quick Facts: Maine CDL Requirements
- Minimum Age: 18 for intrastate, 21 for interstate
- Application Fee: $35
- License Fee: $65
- Testing Fee: $35
- ELDT Required: Yes for Class A/B and P, S, H endorsements
- Medical Certificate: Required for most CDL holders
Maine CDL Overview
The Maine Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) administers commercial driver licensing under federal FMCSA regulations. Whether you're seeking a Class A CDL for tractor-trailers or a Class B for local delivery, Maine's comprehensive CDL program ensures you meet all federal and state requirements for safe commercial driving.
Age Requirements by CDL Class
Maine follows federal age standards for CDL operation:
- 18+ years: Intrastate operation (within Maine only) for all CDL classes
- 21+ years: Interstate operation, hazardous materials transport, and passenger/school bus endorsements
While you can begin CDL preparation at 16 with a valid Maine driver's license, actual commercial operation must meet federal age requirements.
CDL Classes and Endorsements
CDL Classes
- Class A: Combination vehicles with GVWR over 26,000 lbs
- Class B: Large trucks and buses over 26,000 lbs GVWR
- Class C: Smaller commercial vehicles requiring special endorsements
Available Endorsements
- H: Hazardous Materials
- N: Tank Vehicle
- P: Passenger
- S: School Bus
- T: Double/Triple Trailers
- X: Combination Tank and Hazardous Materials
Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT)
Effective February 7, 2022, Maine requires ELDT completion for:
- First-time Class A or Class B CDL
- Upgrading from Class B to Class A
- First-time Passenger (P), School Bus (S), or Hazardous Materials (H) endorsements
Training must be completed through an FMCSA-approved provider listed in the Training Provider Registry. The provider must submit completion records before you can schedule your skills test.
Knowledge Test Requirements
Before obtaining your Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP), you must pass required knowledge tests:
Required Tests by CDL Class
- All Classes: General Knowledge
- Class A: General Knowledge + Combination Vehicles
- Air Brake Vehicles: Air Brakes test (if applicable)
- Endorsements: Separate tests for H, N, P, S, T endorsements
Knowledge Test Topics
- Vehicle inspection procedures
- Basic vehicle control and shifting
- Safe driving and speed management
- Space management and hazard perception
- Cargo securement
- Air brake systems (if applicable)
- Combination vehicle dynamics (Class A)
- Passenger/school bus safety (endorsements)
- Hazardous materials regulations (H endorsement)
Skills Test Requirements
After holding your CLP for at least 14 days, you must pass a three-part skills test:
Pre-Trip Inspection
Demonstrate ability to inspect critical safety components including brakes, steering, tires, lights, coupling systems, and emergency equipment.
Basic Control Skills
Perform low-speed maneuvers such as:
- Straight-line backing
- Offset backing
- Parallel parking
- Alley dock
On-Road Driving Test
Drive in traffic demonstrating:
- Proper lane usage and positioning
- Safe turning and merging
- Speed control and following distance
- Hazard recognition and response
Medical Certification Requirements
Maine enforces federal DOT medical requirements for CDL holders. You must complete CDL self-certification declaring your driving type and provide medical documentation as required.
Medical Certificate Requirements
Drivers operating in non-excepted interstate or intrastate commerce must:
- Obtain a DOT Medical Examiner's Certificate from an FMCSA-registered medical examiner
- Submit a copy to Maine BMV
- Maintain current certification throughout CDL validity
DOT Physical Exam Components
- Vision and hearing tests
- Blood pressure and cardiovascular health
- Medication review
- Physical and mental health assessment
- Diabetes and other chronic condition evaluation
| Fee Type | Amount |
|---|---|
| Application Fee | $35 |
| License Fee | $65 |
| Testing Fee | $35 |
| Endorsement Fees | Varies by endorsement |
Testing Locations and Scheduling
Maine CDL testing is available through BMV offices and approved third-party testing sites. Contact the CDL Examination Section at 207-624-9000, ext. 52122 to schedule your tests.
Testing Process
- Apply for and obtain your Commercial Learner's Permit
- Complete required ELDT training (if applicable)
- Hold CLP for minimum 14 days
- Schedule and pass skills test
- Complete medical certification and self-certification
Hazardous Materials Endorsement
The hazardous materials endorsement requires additional steps:
- Complete ELDT hazmat theory training
- Pass hazmat knowledge test
- Undergo TSA security threat assessment
- Provide fingerprints and background check
Reciprocity and Transfers
Maine participates in the federal CDL program, providing reciprocity with other states. When moving to Maine, you must transfer your out-of-state CDL and may need to re-test for certain endorsements.
Important 2025 Change
Effective September 29, 2025, Maine cannot issue or renew non-domiciled CDLs due to new federal regulations. Non-citizens and non-residents should contact BMV directly regarding their options.
Special Maine Programs
Maine offers several CDL-related initiatives:
- Youth Outreach: Early career pathway programs for students 16+
- Industry Partnerships: Collaboration with Maine Motor Transport Association
- Workforce Development: Training programs aligned with local carrier needs
How to Apply for Your Maine CDL
Step 1: Prepare for Knowledge Tests
Study the Maine CDL Manual and complete any required ELDT theory training through an approved provider.
Step 2: Apply for Commercial Learner's Permit
Visit a BMV office with required documents:
- Valid Maine driver's license
- Proof of identity and residency
- Social Security documentation
- Medical certification (if required)
Step 3: Pass Knowledge Tests
Take and pass all required knowledge tests for your desired CDL class and endorsements.
Step 4: Complete Skills Training
If required, complete ELDT behind-the-wheel training with an approved provider.
Step 5: Schedule and Pass Skills Test
After holding your CLP for at least 14 days, schedule your skills test through the CDL Examination Section.
Step 6: Receive Your CDL
Upon passing all tests and meeting requirements, pay applicable fees and receive your Maine CDL.
For the most current information and to schedule tests, contact the Maine BMV CDL Examination Section at 207-624-9000, ext. 52122 or visit the official Maine BMV website.
Maine DMV
Medical Requirements
All Maine CDL holders must complete self-certification declaring their type of commercial operation. Drivers in non-excepted interstate or intrastate commerce must obtain a DOT Medical Examiner's Certificate from an FMCSA-registered medical examiner. The DOT physical examines vision, hearing, blood pressure, cardiovascular health, medications, and other conditions affecting safe driving. Medical certificates must be submitted to Maine BMV and kept current throughout CDL validity. Failure to maintain current medical certification can result in CDL downgrade or disqualification.