Nevada CDL Requirements

Nevada CDL Classes and Age Requirements

Nevada issues three classes of Commercial Driver's Licenses (CDL) following federal standards:

• Class A CDL: Combination vehicles with GVWR over 26,001 lbs and towed vehicle over 10,000 lbs
• Class B CDL: Single vehicles over 26,001 lbs GVWR, small trailers under 10,000 lbs
• Class C CDL: Vehicles under 26,001 lbs carrying 16+ passengers or hazardous materials

Age requirements are consistent across all CDL classes:

• 18 years minimum: Intrastate commerce (within Nevada only)
• 21 years minimum: Interstate commerce and hazardous materials transportation

Nevada CDL Fees

Nevada CDL fees are structured as follows:

Note: Third-party testing facilities may charge additional fees. Always verify current fees with Nevada DMV before applying, as rates are subject to change.

Knowledge Test Requirements

Before obtaining a CDL, you must first get a Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP) by passing the required knowledge tests. Tests are based on the Nevada CDL Handbook and include:

Required Tests for All CDL Classes

• General Knowledge Test: Vehicle inspection, basic control, shifting, speed management, space management, hazard perception, emergency procedures, and cargo securement
• Air Brakes Test: Required if operating vehicles with air brake systems

Class-Specific Tests

• Combination Vehicles Test: Required for Class A CDL - covers coupling/uncoupling, trailer inspection, and safe driving with trailers

Endorsement Tests

• Passenger (P): Loading procedures, passenger safety, emergency evacuation
• School Bus (S): Student loading, railroad crossings, emergency procedures
• Tank Vehicles (N): Liquid surge, safe handling of tank vehicles
• Double/Triple Trailers (T): Coupling procedures, stability, inspection
• Hazardous Materials (H): Hazard classes, placards, loading procedures, security awareness

Each test must be passed before proceeding to the skills test or adding endorsements to your license.

Skills Test Requirements

The CDL skills test consists of three parts, all conducted in a vehicle representing the class and type of CDL you're seeking:

Pre-Trip Inspection

Demonstrate your ability to inspect critical safety components including brakes, steering, lights, tires, coupling devices, and emergency equipment. You must verbally explain what you're checking and identify potential problems.

Basic Vehicle Control

Perform low-speed maneuvers in a controlled environment:

• Straight line backing
• Offset backing
• Alley dock backing
• Parallel parking

On-Road Driving Test

Demonstrate safe driving skills in traffic conditions:

• Lane usage and positioning
• Proper turning procedures
• Speed control and following distance
• Railroad crossing procedures
• Intersection navigation
• Gear usage and shifting

Important: You must test in a vehicle that matches your desired CDL class and endorsements. Testing in an automatic transmission vehicle will result in an automatic-only restriction.

Medical Certification Requirements

Nevada requires all CDL applicants to self-certify their type of commerce and provide medical certification when required:

Self-Certification Categories

• Non-Excepted Interstate: Most common - requires DOT medical certificate
• Non-Excepted Intrastate: Nevada only - requires DOT medical certificate
• Excepted Interstate: Limited operations - may not require medical certificate
• Excepted Intrastate: Very limited operations - may not require medical certificate

Medical Examiner's Certificate Requirements

If required based on your self-certification, you must:

• Obtain a medical exam from a provider on the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners
• Submit the Medical Examiner's Certificate to Nevada DMV
• Renew the certificate at least every 24 months (or sooner if specified by examiner)
• Carry the certificate while driving commercial vehicles

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

Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT)

Nevada follows federal ELDT requirements administered by FMCSA. Training is required for:

• First-time Class A or Class B CDL applicants
• Upgrading from Class B to Class A
• Adding Passenger, School Bus, or Hazardous Materials endorsements

ELDT Requirements

• Training must be completed with a provider listed on FMCSA's Training Provider Registry
• Includes both theory (classroom) and behind-the-wheel instruction
• Completion must be electronically verified before skills testing
• Nevada has numerous ELDT-compliant schools in Las Vegas, Reno, and other cities

DMV will not authorize your skills test until ELDT completion is verified in the federal system.

CDL Endorsements

Nevada issues standard federal endorsements:

HazMat Endorsement Special Requirements

• U.S. citizenship or eligible immigration status
• TSA Security Threat Assessment ($86.50)
• Fingerprinting and background check
• ELDT training completion
• Renewal every 5 years with new background check

Testing Locations and Scheduling

Knowledge Tests

Available at Nevada DMV offices that provide commercial services. Major locations include:

• Las Vegas area offices
• Reno area offices
• Carson City
• Henderson

Appointments are recommended for CDL services.

Skills Tests

Skills tests can be conducted at:

• Nevada DMV testing facilities
• Certified third-party examiners (CDL schools and testing companies)

Skills tests must be scheduled in advance. Third-party testing may offer more flexible scheduling but could have additional fees.

Nevada-Specific Requirements

Limited-Term CDL Phase-Out

Nevada is phasing out Limited-Term (non-domiciled) CLPs and CDLs to comply with new federal regulations effective September 29, 2025. This affects certain foreign visa holders who may need to apply for alternative licensing options.

Residency Requirements

To obtain a Nevada CDL, you must provide:

• Proof of Nevada residency (utility bill, lease agreement, pay stub)
• Valid existing driver's license
• Social Security number verification

Medical Certification Management

Nevada strictly enforces medical certification requirements. Your Medical Examiner's Certificate is kept on your driving record, and failure to maintain valid certification results in automatic CDL downgrade.

Reciprocity and Transfers

Nevada recognizes valid CDLs from other states under federal reciprocity. When moving to Nevada:

• Transfer your out-of-state CDL within the required timeframe for new residents
• Meet Nevada's identity, residency, and medical certification requirements
• Endorsements transfer if they meet federal requirements
• HazMat endorsements may require new TSA screening

How to Apply

Step 1: Obtain Commercial Learner's Permit

1. Study the Nevada CDL Handbook
2. Complete ELDT training if required
3. Gather required documents (identity, residency, Social Security)
4. Complete medical exam if required
5. Visit Nevada DMV office
6. Complete self-certification
7. Pass knowledge tests
8. Pay CLP fees ($18 + $10 per test)

Step 2: Practice and Prepare

1. Practice driving with CLP (must have qualified CDL holder present)
2. Complete any remaining ELDT requirements
3. Schedule skills test

Step 3: Take Skills Test

1. Bring appropriate vehicle for testing
2. Pass all three parts of skills test
3. Pay testing fees

Step 4: Receive CDL

1. Pay CDL license fee ($46)
2. Receive temporary license
3. Permanent license arrives by mail

For the most current information and to schedule appointments, visit the official Nevada DMV website at dmv.nv.gov or contact your local DMV office.