Virginia CDL License Requirements

To become a truck driver in Virginia, you must first obtain a Virginia commercial driver’s license (CDL). Commercial vehicles requiring a CDL license to drive in Virginia are categorized based on the following criteria:

• Class A: Vehicle with combined weight over 26,001 pounds, towing a vehicle weighing more than 10,000 pounds
• Class B: Vehicle weighing more than 26,001 pounds, towing a vehicle weighing less than 10,000 pounds
• Class C: Vehicle used for transporting 16 or more people (including driver) or to transport hazardous materials

According to Virginia CDL requirements, applicants must be at least 18 years old, have a valid Virginia driver’s license and obtain a medical certificate. The U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) regulates interstate transportation of cargo. If you wish to transport materials across state lines, you must be at least 21 years old. CDL applicants must then pass a written knowledge exam and a three part skills test, which includes a pre-trip vehicle inspection, a basic control skills test and an on-road driving exam. The State of Virginia requires that applicants test in the class of vehicle for which they are trying to obtain a CDL--for example, you must test in a Class A vehicle if you wish to obtain a Class A CDL.

Additional endorsements are then needed in order to drive certain types of vehicles including trucks with air brakes, double/triple trailers, tanker trucks or school buses. Endorsements are also needed to transport passengers or to haul hazardous materials. A background check by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is required to transport hazardous materials (Hazmat endorsement). A truck driving school will provide the education and on-road training needed to pass the Virginia CDL requirements.

Resources for Virginia CDL Requirements

Visit the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles website for more information.