Mississippi CDL Requirements
Mississippi offers the fastest CDL processing time in the nation, often issuing licenses same-day after successful testing.
Age Requirements
Fees & Costs
Fees are subject to change. Contact the Mississippi DMV for current rates.
Testing Information
Written Test
Mississippi CDL knowledge tests include General Knowledge (required for all), Combination Vehicles (Class A), Air Brakes (if applicable), and various endorsement tests. CLP tests typically have 50 questions requiring 80% to pass. Tests are based on the official Mississippi CDL manual and cover federal regulations, vehicle inspection, safe driving practices, and specific endorsement knowledge.
Skills Test
Mississippi CDL skills test consists of three parts: Pre-Trip Vehicle Inspection (demonstrate ability to determine vehicle safety), Basic Vehicle Control (forward/backing maneuvers, turning, control exercises), and On-Road Driving (traffic interaction, turns, lane changes, grades, railroad crossings). Must hold CLP for at least 14 days before testing and provide properly registered, insured representative vehicle of correct class.
Mississippi CDL Requirements Overview
Mississippi issues Commercial Driver's Licenses (CDLs) under state law and federal FMCSA regulations through the Mississippi Department of Public Safety (MDPS) Driver Service Bureau. Whether you're seeking a Class A, B, or C CDL, understanding the complete requirements will help ensure a smooth application process.
CDL Fees in Mississippi
Mississippi CDL fees are structured as follows:
- CDL License (5-year): $55
- Hazardous Materials Endorsement: $100 (includes TSA/fingerprint costs)
- Application Fee: $0
- Testing Fees: Contact MDPS for current rates
- Renewal Fees: Contact MDPS for current rates
Additional fees for knowledge tests, skills tests, and permit issuance are available at MDPS offices. Always verify current fees with the Driver Service Bureau before applying.
Age Requirements for Mississippi CDL
Mississippi CDL age requirements depend on the type of driving you plan to do:
Intrastate CDL (Within Mississippi Only)
- Minimum age: 17 years old
- Restricted to driving within Mississippi state boundaries
- Cannot transport hazardous materials
Interstate CDL or HazMat
- Minimum age: 21 years old
- Required for driving across state lines
- Required for transporting hazardous materials
- No restrictions on commercial vehicle operation
Mississippi applies the same age thresholds regardless of CDL class (A, B, or C), with restrictions based on interstate vs. intrastate operation.
Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP) Requirements
Before obtaining your CDL, you must first get a Commercial Learner's Permit. Requirements include:
- Hold a valid Mississippi Class R (regular) driver's license
- Provide proof of identity, Social Security number, and Mississippi residency
- Pass a vision test
- Pass required knowledge exams with at least 80%
- Pay applicable license and permit fees
- Provide a valid DOT medical certificate
- Complete a 10-year driving record check
The CLP is valid for 6 months and must be held for at least 14 days before taking the CDL skills test.
Knowledge Test Requirements
Mississippi CDL knowledge tests are based on your intended license class and endorsements:
Required Tests
- General Knowledge: Required for all CDL applicants
- Combination Vehicles: Required for Class A CDL
- Air Brakes: Required if operating air-brake equipped vehicles
Endorsement Tests
- Passenger vehicles
- School bus
- Tank vehicles
- Doubles/triples
- Hazardous materials
CLP knowledge tests typically consist of 50 questions with a required passing score of 80%. Study the official Mississippi CDL manual thoroughly before testing.
Skills Test Requirements
After holding your CLP for at least 14 days, you must complete a comprehensive three-part skills test:
Pre-Trip Vehicle Inspection
Demonstrate your ability to determine if the vehicle is safe to operate by conducting a thorough inspection of all critical systems and components.
Basic Vehicle Control
Show proficiency in vehicle control through various maneuvers including forward/backing, turning, and control exercises in a defined testing area.
On-Road Driving Test
Demonstrate safe driving skills in traffic situations including turns, lane changes, grades, railroad crossings, and interaction with other vehicles.
Important: You must provide a properly registered and insured representative vehicle of the correct class for testing. Failure to bring an appropriate vehicle will prevent testing or may result in restrictions.
Medical Certification Requirements
Mississippi follows federal DOT medical certification requirements:
- Pass a DOT physical exam performed by a certified medical examiner listed on FMCSA's National Registry
- Obtain a Medical Examiner's Certificate (MCSA-5876) indicating physical qualification
- Complete self-certification of your type of commercial driving with MDPS
- Maintain current medical certification on file as required
Important Change Effective June 23, 2025
Federal mandates require significant changes to medical certification submission:
- Mississippi will no longer accept paper or scanned copies of medical cards
- Medical examiners must submit results electronically to FMCSA's National Registry
- Mississippi will post medical status directly to your driver record
Failing to maintain current medical certification can result in CDL downgrade or suspension.
Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) Requirements
Mississippi enforces federal ELDT requirements for specific CDL applications:
- First-time applicants for Class A or Class B CDL must complete ELDT
- Certain endorsements (passenger, school bus, HazMat) require ELDT
- Training must be from a provider listed on FMCSA's Training Provider Registry (TPR)
- ELDT completion must be electronically posted before test scheduling
You cannot schedule applicable CDL tests until your ELDT completion is verified in the system.
Testing Locations and Scheduling
CDL testing in Mississippi is conducted through MDPS Driver Service Bureau offices:
- Schedule CDL skills tests at local DPS/Driver Service Bureau offices
- Use the Driver Service Bureau's online appointment system for scheduling
- Contact CDL testing sites directly for availability
- Larger designated CDL sites in areas like Jackson, Gulfport, Tupelo, Horn Lake, and Ridgeland handle most road tests
Not all offices offer complete CDL testing services. Verify which locations near you provide both knowledge and skills testing for your specific CDL class.
Application Process Steps
- Study the official Mississippi CDL manual
- Complete ELDT training if required
- Gather required documents (identity, residency, medical certificate)
- Apply for CLP and pass knowledge tests
- Practice driving with CLP for at least 14 days
- Schedule skills test with appropriate vehicle
- Pass skills test and receive CDL
Important Reminders
- Always verify current requirements with MDPS before applying
- Keep medical certification current to avoid license issues
- Maintain a clean driving record throughout the process
- Allow adequate time for ELDT completion and scheduling
- Bring proper documentation and fees to all appointments
For the most current information and to access official forms, visit the Mississippi Department of Public Safety Driver Service Bureau website or contact your local MDPS office directly.
Mississippi DMV
Medical Requirements
Must pass DOT physical exam by certified medical examiner on FMCSA National Registry. Obtain Medical Examiner's Certificate (MCSA-5876) and complete self-certification with MDPS. Starting June 23, 2025, medical examiners must submit results electronically to FMCSA National Registry - paper copies no longer accepted. Medical status posted directly to driver record. Must maintain current certification to avoid CDL downgrade or suspension.