Rhode Island CDL Requirements

Rhode Island CDL Requirements Overview

Obtaining a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) in Rhode Island requires meeting specific federal and state requirements administered by the Rhode Island Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV). Whether you're pursuing a Class A, B, or C CDL, this comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about the licensing process in the Ocean State.

Age Requirements for Rhode Island CDL

Rhode Island follows federal age requirements with important distinctions between intrastate and interstate driving:

• 18 years old: Minimum age for intrastate CDL (driving within Rhode Island only)
• 21 years old: Required for interstate CDL, transporting hazardous materials, or most endorsements across state lines

Additionally, applicants must hold a valid Rhode Island Class D (regular) driver's license for at least two years with no disqualifying suspensions or revocations before applying for a CDL.

CDL Classes and Vehicle Types

Class A CDL

Allows operation of 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. This includes tractor-trailers, truck and trailer combinations, and large livestock carriers.

Class B CDL

Permits driving single vehicles with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 26,001 pounds or more, or vehicles towing another vehicle not exceeding 10,000 pounds. Examples include large trucks, buses, and delivery vehicles.

Class C CDL

Required for vehicles designed to transport 16 or more passengers (including the driver) or vehicles carrying hazardous materials requiring placards, regardless of vehicle size.

Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP) Process

Before obtaining your CDL, you must first secure a Commercial Learner's Permit:

• Pass the General Knowledge written test with an 80% score (40 out of 50 questions)
• Pass additional knowledge tests for your desired class and endorsements
• Provide required documentation including identity, residency, and Social Security verification
• Submit a valid DOT Medical Examiner's Certificate (unless excepted)

The CLP is valid for 365 days with no renewal option. You must wait 14 days after CLP issuance before taking the skills test.

Knowledge Test Requirements

Rhode Island requires an 80% passing score on all CDL knowledge exams. Required tests vary by license class and endorsements:

General Knowledge Test

Mandatory for all CDL applicants, covering traffic laws, vehicle operation, and safety procedures.

Endorsement Tests

• Air Brakes: 20 out of 25 questions (required if testing in air brake vehicle)
• Combination Vehicles: 16 out of 20 questions (Class A CDL)
• Passenger: 16 out of 20 questions (P endorsement)
• School Bus: 16 out of 20 questions (S endorsement)
• Hazardous Materials: 24 out of 30 questions (H endorsement)
• Tank Vehicles: 16 out of 20 questions (N endorsement)
• Doubles/Triples: 16 out of 20 questions (T endorsement)

Skills Test Information

The CDL skills test consists of three parts and is conducted by the Community College of Rhode Island (CCRI) under contract with the RI DMV:

• Pre-trip Vehicle Inspection: Demonstrate knowledge of vehicle safety inspection
• Basic Vehicle Control: Show ability to control vehicle in close quarters
• On-road Driving: Demonstrate safe driving skills in traffic

To schedule your skills test, contact CCRI at (401) 825-1146. You must provide a representative vehicle that is properly registered, inspected, and insured for the class of CDL you're testing for.

As of October 6, 2025, Rhode Island uses the Modernized CDL Skills Test, which updates vehicle inspection and basic control skills evaluation to meet current federal standards.

Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) Requirements

Effective February 7, 2022, federal ELDT requirements apply to:

• First-time Class A or Class B CDL applicants
• Drivers upgrading from Class B to Class A
• Adding Hazardous Materials (H), Passenger (P), or School Bus (S) endorsements

Training must be completed through a provider listed on the FMCSA Training Provider Registry. This ensures standardized, quality instruction for new commercial drivers.

Medical Certification Requirements

Rhode Island follows federal FMCSA medical certification rules:

• Valid Medical Examiner's Certificate (Form MCSA-5876) required for most CDL holders
• Medical exam must be performed by a certified medical examiner
• Medical certificate must be on file with RI DMV before CLP processing
• Self-certification of driving type required per federal regulations

Drivers operating in excepted categories may not require medical certification, but must still complete the self-certification process.

Testing Locations and Procedures

Knowledge Testing

Knowledge tests and CLP issuance are handled at Rhode Island DMV offices that offer CDL services. Bring required documentation including identity, residency, and Social Security verification, plus your valid medical certificate if applicable.

Skills Testing

Skills tests are conducted by the Community College of Rhode Island (CCRI). Contact them at (401) 825-1146 to schedule your appointment. You must bring your Rhode Island driver's license, valid CLP, and an appropriate commercial vehicle.

CDL Endorsements Available

Rhode Island offers various endorsements to expand your commercial driving privileges:

• H - Hazardous Materials: Transport hazardous materials requiring placards
• P - Passenger: Operate vehicles designed for 16+ passengers
• S - School Bus: Drive school buses
• N - Tank Vehicles: Operate tank vehicles
• T - Double/Triple Trailers: Pull multiple trailers
• X - Combination HazMat/Tank: Combined H and N endorsements

Important Reminders

• Wait five business days before retaking a failed test
• Keep your medical certificate current and on file with the DMV
• Complete ELDT training before testing if required
• Ensure your test vehicle meets all safety and registration requirements
• Review the official Rhode Island CDL Manual thoroughly before testing

Getting Started

To begin your CDL journey in Rhode Island:

1. Study the official RI CDL Manual
2. Complete required ELDT training if applicable
3. Obtain your DOT medical certificate
4. Gather required documentation
5. Visit a DMV office to apply for your CLP
6. Pass knowledge tests
7. Schedule and pass your skills test

For the most current information and fee schedules, visit the official Rhode Island DMV website or contact them directly. Requirements and fees are subject to change, so always verify current information before beginning the application process.