Relocating to a new state doesn’t just mean finding a new home — it also involves taking care of important legal and logistical tasks, including transferring your Commercial Driver’s License (CDL).
If you’re a commercial driver, you’ll need to update your CDL to reflect your new state of residence. Fortunately, transferring your CDL from one state to another is a relatively straightforward process, as long as you meet the necessary requirements.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps involved in transferring your CDL to another state, highlight the key documents and fees required, and explain the additional steps you might need to take based on your unique situation.
1. Why Do You Need to Transfer Your CDL?
When you move to a new state, your driver’s license must be updated to reflect your new address. This rule applies to CDLs as well. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) mandates that drivers have a CDL that is issued by the state they reside in. In other words, you cannot hold a CDL from one state if you’ve established residency in another.
Failure to transfer your CDL within a certain period (typically 30 to 60 days) can lead to penalties, including fines or issues with your driving privileges.
2. Key Steps to Transfer Your CDL to Another State
Transferring your CDL involves several steps. Here’s an overview of what you need to do:
Step 1: Establish Residency in the New State
Before you can transfer your CDL, you’ll need to establish residency in your new state. This is typically done by:
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Renting or buying a home
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Updating your address with your employer and the U.S. Postal Service
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Updating your vehicle registration to your new state
Once you have proof of residency (such as a lease agreement or utility bill), you can proceed with transferring your CDL.
Step 2: Check Your New State’s CDL Requirements
Each state has its own CDL transfer requirements, so it’s essential to check the regulations and policies of your new state. Some states might have additional requirements for specific CDL holders, especially if you have endorsements like HazMat, Passenger, or School Bus.
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State DMV/MVD Website: Visit your new state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or Motor Vehicle Division (MVD) website to learn about the specific documents required and any additional steps for transferring your CDL.
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Endorsement Rules: If your new state requires you to re-qualify for certain endorsements (such as HazMat), make sure to review the additional steps needed.
Step 3: Gather the Required Documents
To transfer your CDL to a new state, you’ll need to provide several documents. These typically include:
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Proof of Identity: Your current CDL and proof of identity, such as a passport or birth certificate.
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Proof of Residency: A utility bill, lease agreement, or any other official document with your name and new address.
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Social Security Number (SSN): Provide your SSN for verification.
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Medical Certification: If required, provide your current DOT medical certificate that confirms you meet the physical standards for operating a commercial vehicle.
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Driving Record: In some cases, the new state may request your driving record or a copy of your CDL history from your previous state of residence. Some states may do this automatically.
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Commercial Vehicle Insurance: If necessary, provide proof of commercial vehicle insurance.
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Endorsements: If you have special endorsements on your CDL (like HazMat), make sure to bring documentation related to those as well (such as TSA background checks).
Step 4: Complete the Application Process
Once you have all the necessary documents, you’ll need to fill out an application to transfer your CDL. This application can usually be completed online, by mail, or in person at your new state’s DMV/MVD office.
Some states allow online transfers if your current CDL is still valid and if you don’t need to take any additional tests. In most cases, you’ll need to:
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Fill out an Application for a Commercial Driver’s License.
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Submit your documents (proof of residency, identity, medical certificate, etc.).
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Pass required tests (if necessary).
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If your CDL is about to expire, some states might require you to retake the written knowledge or skills test (though this is usually not required if you’re just transferring your CDL).
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If your CDL is up-to-date, you may not need to take any tests unless your new state requires them.
Step 5: Pay the Fees
Most states charge a fee for transferring your CDL. The fees typically range from $20 to $100, depending on the state and your specific situation (such as your CDL class or endorsements).
Check your new state’s DMV or MVD website for the exact fee schedule.
Step 6: Take a Vision Test (If Required)
Some states require a vision test to ensure you meet the minimum vision standards for commercial drivers. If your eyesight has changed or if you’ve not had a vision test recently, you may be required to take one.
If you wear corrective lenses (glasses or contacts), make sure you bring them with you for the test.
Step 7: Surrender Your Previous CDL
When you transfer your CDL, you’ll likely need to surrender your old license from your previous state. The DMV/MVD office in your new state will issue you a new CDL, which will include your new state’s regulations and information.
In some cases, you may be issued a temporary CDL until the new one arrives in the mail.
3. What Happens If Your CDL Is Expired?
If your CDL has already expired, you may be required to retake the CDL exams (both written and road tests) before it can be transferred to your new state. Some states may have a grace period, allowing you to transfer your CDL without testing, as long as the expiration is recent.
Be sure to check with your new state’s DMV/MVD office for specific guidelines.
4. CDL Endorsement Transfers
If you have endorsements on your CDL, such as HazMat or Passenger, you may need to take additional steps when transferring your CDL:
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HazMat Endorsement: If you’re transferring a CDL with a HazMat endorsement, you may need to go through a TSA background check and renew your HazMat endorsement in your new state.
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Passenger or School Bus Endorsements: Some states may require additional background checks or tests for endorsements like Passenger or School Bus before transferring your CDL.
It’s important to check whether your new state requires you to renew or requalify for specific endorsements.
5. How Long Does It Take to Transfer a CDL?
The process of transferring a CDL can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks, depending on your state and the complexity of your situation. Some states allow immediate transfers for qualified applicants, while others may require processing time for background checks, vision tests, or endorsements.
In some cases, you might receive a temporary CDL while waiting for your official one to arrive by mail.
Conclusion
Transferring your CDL to another state is an essential step when relocating as a commercial driver. While the process is generally straightforward, it’s important to follow the specific steps required by your new state’s DMV/MVD, gather the necessary documents, and ensure that all requirements are met to avoid any delays.
By planning ahead, checking the transfer requirements, and completing the necessary steps, you can smoothly transition your CDL to your new state and continue driving legally without interruption.