Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Requirements in Idaho

1. What are the CDL requirements for obtaining a Commercial Driver’s License in Idaho?


In Idaho, applicants must meet the following requirements to obtain a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL):

• Must be at least 18 years of age or older

• Must possess a valid driver’s license
• Must pass a general knowledge test as well as specialized tests such as air brakes, combination vehicles, and hazardous materials
• Must pass a medical exam that includes vision, hearing, and physical standards set by the federal government.
• Must provide proof of US citizenship or permanent residency
• Must present proof of residency in Idaho
• Must successfully complete a state approved commercial driver’s license training program

2. How many years of driving experience do I need to obtain a CDL in Idaho?


In order to obtain a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) in Idaho, you must have at least one year of driving experience.

3. What type of medical certification is required to get a CDL in Idaho?


To obtain a CDL in Idaho, applicants are required to provide proof of a valid medical certification, such as a Medical Examiner’s Certificate (Form MCSA-5876).

4. Does Idaho use the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) guidelines for CDLs?


Yes, Idaho follows the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) guidelines for commercial driver’s licenses (CDLs).

5. Are there any special endorsements required to drive certain types of vehicles with a CDL in Idaho?


Yes, special endorsements are required in Idaho to drive certain types of vehicles. This includes a Tanker Endorsement, which is required to drive a tank vehicle; a Passenger Endorsement, which is required to transport passengers for hire; and a School Bus Endorsement, which is required to transport school children and staff. Additionally, a Double/Triple Trailer Endorsement is required for any vehicle that pulls two or three trailers. A Hazardous Materials Endorsement is also required to transport hazardous materials.

6. How often must CDL holders in Idaho pass a physical examination to maintain their license?


CDL holders in Idaho must pass a physical examination every two years to maintain their license.

7. What are the age requirements for obtaining a CDL in Idaho?


To obtain a commercial driver’s license (CDL) in Idaho, you must be at least 18 years old. If you are between the ages of 18 and 21, you may be limited to intrastate driving only. Those 21 and older can apply for a CDL that is valid for both intrastate and interstate driving.

8. Are there any skill exams required to get a CDL in Idaho?


No, in Idaho there are no skill exams required to get a CDL. To obtain a CDL in the state, you must pass a written knowledge test and meet the eligibility requirements determined by the Idaho Department of Transportation.

9. Does Idaho require drivers to complete any additional training before obtaining a CDL?


Yes, Idaho requires that all CDL applicants take an approved 30-hour driver education course. The course can be taken online or in-person and must cover topics such as vehicle safety, pre-trip inspections, maneuverability and basic driving skills. Additionally, applicants must pass a written test and a road skills test.

10. Can I obtain a CDL if I have previous convictions for traffic violations in Idaho?


Yes, you may be able to obtain a CDL in Idaho depending on the type and severity of the traffic violations. However, you may face certain restrictions in the types of vehicles you are allowed to operate. Please contact your local Department of Motor Vehicles for more information.

11. What hours are Commercial Drivers allowed to drive in Idaho?


The maximum number of hours a commercial driver is allowed to drive in Idaho per day is 11 hours, and the maximum amount of hours permitted in a seven-day period is 60. Drivers must take at least an eight-hour break between shifts. Drivers must also take at least 34 consecutive hours off duty after 60 hours of driving in a seven-day period, or 70 hours of driving in an eight-day period.

12. Are there any restrictions on CDL holders operating certain types of vehicles in Idaho?


Yes, CDL holders in Idaho are prohibited from operating buses carrying passengers, school buses, and vehicles designed to transport 16 or more passengers. Additionally, CDL holders may not operate vehicles designed to transport hazardous materials without obtaining the proper endorsement.

13. Do I need to take any additional classes to obtain a CDL in Idaho?


Yes, you will need to take a few additional classes, depending on the type of CDL you are seeking. For example, if you want a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) with a passenger endorsement, you will need to take an additional class specifically for that endorsement. You may also need to take additional classes for a Hazardous Materials endorsement or a School Bus endorsement.

14. Does Idaho require drivers to carry proof of insurance when operating commercial vehicles?


No, Idaho does not require drivers to carry proof of insurance when operating commercial vehicles.

15. Is there an age limit for holding a Commercial Drivers License in Idaho?


Yes, the minimum age to hold a Commercial Drivers License in Idaho is 18 years old.

16. Are there any special requirements for drivers transporting hazardous materials with a Commercial Drivers License in Idaho?


Yes. Idaho drivers transporting hazardous materials with a CDL must pass the federal HazMat background check and take the Hazardous Materials endorsement test. Drivers must also have the proper shipping papers in their possession and observe all applicable federal, state and local laws while operating.

17. Do I need to take a drug test before obtaining a CDL in Idaho?


Yes. All applicants for a commercial driver’s license must pass a drug test in Idaho. This is to ensure that commercial drivers are not impaired by drugs or alcohol while on the job.

18. Does Idaho require drivers to carry special licenses or endorsements when transporting passengers with a commercial vehicle?


Yes. Idaho requires drivers of commercial vehicles transporting passengers to obtain a Passenger Endorsement on their Commercial Driver’s License (CDL).

19. How often must Commercial Drivers renew their license in Idaho?


Commercial Drivers in Idaho must renew their license every 5 years.

20. Are there any special restrictions on Commercial Drivers operating at night or during certain times of day in Idaho?


Yes, there are special restrictions on commercial drivers operating in Idaho. Idaho state law restricts commercial drivers from driving between the hours of 10pm and 5am. If the drive is crossing state lines, they must also adhere to the federal laws which restrict commercial drivers from driving between 2am and 8am.