Nebraska CDL Requirements

CDL Classes and Age Requirements

Nebraska offers three classes of commercial driver's licenses, each with specific age requirements based on whether you'll drive within Nebraska (intrastate) or across state lines (interstate).

Class A CDL

A Class A CDL allows you to operate combination vehicles with a gross combination weight rating (GCWR) of 26,001 pounds or more, provided the towed vehicle weighs more than 10,000 pounds.

• Age 18: Intrastate operations within Nebraska only
• Age 21: Interstate operations across state lines

Class B CDL

A Class B CDL permits operation of single vehicles with a GVWR of 26,001 pounds or more, or vehicles towing trailers under 10,000 pounds.

• Age 18: Intrastate operations within Nebraska only
• Age 21: Interstate operations across state lines

Class C CDL

A Class C CDL is required for vehicles designed to transport 16 or more passengers or hazardous materials requiring placards.

• Age 18: Intrastate operations within Nebraska only
• Age 21: Interstate operations and hazmat transport

CDL Fees in Nebraska

Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT)

Since February 7, 2022, Nebraska requires completion of Entry-Level Driver Training for:

• New Class A or Class B CDL applicants
• CDL class upgrades
• Adding Passenger (P), School Bus (S), or Hazardous Materials (H) endorsements

The Nebraska DMV verifies ELDT completion electronically through the FMCSA Training Provider Registry. You don't need to submit paper certificates, but must complete training with an FMCSA-approved provider.

Knowledge Test Requirements

Before taking the CDL skills test, you must obtain a Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP) by passing written knowledge tests.

Required Knowledge Tests

• General Knowledge: Required for all CDL applicants
• Air Brakes: Required if operating vehicles with air brakes
• Combination Vehicles: Required for Class A CDL

Endorsement Knowledge Tests

• Passenger (P): For vehicles carrying 16+ passengers
• School Bus (S): For school bus operations
• Hazardous Materials (H): Requires TSA background check
• Tank Vehicles (N): For liquid/gas transport
• Doubles/Triples (T): For multiple trailer combinations

You must score at least 80% on all written tests. If you fail, you can retake after a 24-hour waiting period.

Skills Test Requirements

The CDL skills test consists of three parts and must be taken in the same class of vehicle you want to be licensed for:

Pre-Trip Inspection

Demonstrate your ability to inspect the vehicle and determine it's safe to operate, including brakes, tires, lights, and coupling devices.

Basic Vehicle Control

Perform maneuvers in a controlled area such as straight-line backing, offset backing, and parallel parking.

On-Road Test

Drive safely on public streets demonstrating proper turns, lane changes, intersections, and traffic law compliance.

Important: You must hold your CLP for at least 14 days before taking the skills test. If your CLP expires before passing all three segments, you must retake all skills tests.

Medical Requirements

Nebraska follows federal DOT medical certification requirements. Most CDL applicants must:

• Obtain a valid Medical Examiner's Certificate (DOT physical) from an FMCSA-certified medical examiner
• Self-certify their type of commercial operation (interstate vs. intrastate)
• Keep medical certification current to avoid CDL downgrade

The DOT physical examines vision, hearing, blood pressure, and various medical conditions. Medical certificates are typically valid for up to 2 years, though some conditions may require more frequent renewals.

CDL Endorsements

Nebraska offers several endorsements to expand your CDL privileges:

• P - Passenger: Required for vehicles designed to carry 16+ passengers including driver
• S - School Bus: Required with P endorsement for school bus operation
• H - Hazardous Materials: Required for placarded hazmat; needs TSA background check
• N - Tank Vehicles: Required for transporting liquids or gases in tanks
• T - Doubles/Triples: Required for towing multiple trailers
• X - Combination: Tank vehicles with hazardous materials (N + H)

Testing Locations and Scheduling

Knowledge tests are available at Nebraska driver licensing offices that provide CDL services. Skills tests are by appointment only and can be taken at:

• State CDL examination stations
• State-approved third-party testing facilities

You must provide your own vehicle for the skills test that matches the CDL class you're seeking. Contact your local Nebraska DMV office or approved third-party examiner to schedule your skills test.

Restrictions and Special Requirements

Common CDL restrictions in Nebraska include:

• E: No manual transmission
• K: Intrastate only (typically for drivers 18-20)
• L: No air brakes
• V: Medical variance
• Z: No full air brakes

CDL holders must report all traffic convictions and license suspensions to both the Nebraska DMV and their employer. Failure to report can result in a Class III misdemeanor under Nebraska law.

How to Apply

Follow these steps to obtain your Nebraska CDL:

1. Study the Nebraska CDL Handbook available online
2. Complete ELDT training with an FMCSA-approved provider (if required)
3. Gather required documents: proof of identity, Social Security number, and Nebraska residency
4. Obtain DOT medical certificate from certified medical examiner
5. Visit a Nebraska DMV office to apply for your CLP
6. Pass knowledge tests for your desired CDL class and endorsements
7. Hold your CLP for at least 14 days
8. Schedule and pass the skills test in appropriate vehicle
9. Pay fees and receive your CDL

For more information, visit the official Nebraska DMV website at dmv.nebraska.gov or call 402-471-3918 for driver licensing questions.