Arkansas
CDL Learner Permit Training
If you are not a resident of ARKANSAS please
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You must obtain and maintain your CDL in your state of residence. This is normally the state where your regular driver\'s license was issued. If you plan on moving soon, you may want to choose your new state of residence.
Arkansas 2024 Learner Permit Training Program
How to obtain a Arkansas CDL Learner Permit. Step by Step.
How to obtain a Arkansas CLP (Commercial Learner's Permit)
Getting Started
Getting a Arkansas CLP (Commercial Learner's Permit) involves several steps. There are medical requirements and residency
requirements besides knowledge and skills requirements.
- The first step is to get a free copy of the Arkansas CDL Manual - AR CDL Handbook. The Arkansas manual is available in the Arkansas field locations, downloaded from the Arkansas website and printed. Arkansas has its own process to get your Arkansas CLP (Commercial Learner's Permit).
- The second step is to decide which type of vehicle and what kind of driving you want to get the CDL for.
- There are 3 classes of Arkansas CDLs with endorsements for specialized qualifications for vehicles like school buses, tank trucks, tractor trailers, etc. Each types of Arkansas CLP (Commercial Learner's Permit) and endorsement requires you pass a skills test and in some cases a written test. It is important to make sure you pass all the required tests or risk having restrictions on your license.
Step 1: Get the Arkansas Commercial Learners Permit (AR CLP)
A Arkansas Commercial Learners Permit (AR CLP) is a permit that only authorizes you to practice on public
roads with a qualified Arkansas CDL holder
sitting next to you. Getting the permit involves more than just passing
all the knowledge tests for the type of driving you want to do. To make
sure that you are eligible your driving record is checked for the last 10
years in all 50 states and the District of Columbia. You need to bring in
the proof that your state accepts to show that you are medically qualified.
Most types of commercial driving require a DOT medical card, requiring a
DOT physical. Your state may require specific documents it wants to see
to prove your name and proof of residency. There are fees for getting the
Arkansas CLP. Reading and following the instructions
found in the specific Arkansas CDL Information will streamline the process.
Step 2: Get the Arkansas Commercial Driver's License (CDL)
You are required to possess the Arkansas CLP for 14 days before taking the Skills Test.
Some states require the successful completion of Arkansas CDL training prior to
testing. Regardless, it is highly recommended that you practice the inspection
tests and maneuvers in the Arkansas CDL Manual that you will be tested on with a
qualified individual before showing up for the test. You must pass all 3 parts
of the Skills Test: the Vehicle Inspection Test, the Basic Controls Test,
and the Road Test. Your state may even allow you to use their "training aid"
to help you remember items on the vehicle inspection checklist. Taking the
Skills test is no guarantee that you will pass.
Once you have passed the Skills Test you need to take the documentation to the
counter for processing. Some states will give you the Arkansas CDL that same day,
while others send it to you in the mail. Regardless make sure that everything
is correct before you leave the counter. It can be costly and embarrassing
if you find a mistake later.
Checklist . . .
- Possess current valid regular driver's license in Arkansas.
- Show proof of Social Security number (Social Security card, payroll check stub, W-2 Form).
- For interstate driving, submit proof of DOT Medical Certificate. For intrastate driving, complete an application which includes a statement certifying that you meet medical and driver qualifications. If you have had any change in your physical condition since your last driver license renewal which may affect your ability to drive, you may need a special form from the branch office for your physician to fill out before you can apply for your license.
- Meet driver record eligibility requirements as determined by your Arkansas DMV office personnel.
- Pass the required knowledge and vision tests. You must pass all required knowledge tests to obtain a Arkansas CDL Temporary Instruction Permit (TIP). This allows you to practice driving under supervision of a driver who has a CDL for the type of vehicle you wish to drive. A Arkansas CDL Temporary Instruction Permit (TIP) is also required for taking the AR CDL skills tests. If you do not pass a knowledge test on your first attempt, you must wait one day to retake the test. There is a one-day wait period for any subsequent retest.
- Pay your Arkansas CDL fees.
- Schedule your Arkansas CDL skills test.
- Upon successfully passing your Skills Tests, return to the Arkansas DMV office.
- Receive your Arkansas CDL.
"I needed to get my CDL permit before starting my skills training the following week. I started using it two minutes after my purchase. Got my CDL permit with time to spare. I highly recommend it." - P.M., Rochester, NY
"I never would have passed if I tried studying without your CDL program. I usually don't do good on tests. This made it interesting and simple." - D.M., Ogden, UT
"A little thank you note. I normally hate studying for tests. Not this time! It was interesting, straight forward and had TONS of different study and practice options. Keep up the good work!" - P.A., Bloomington, MN