Maryland CDL License Requirements
Before you hit the road as a Maryland CDL driver, there are a few things you should know. According to Maryland CDL requirements, you must be at least 18 years old, pass a current physical examination, and have a valid driver’s license. According to the USDOT, if you want to travel across state lines, you must be at least 21 years old. All Maryland CDL applicants then need to pass a general knowledge exam and a skills test, which includes a pre-trip vehicle inspection, a basic vehicle knowledge test, and a hands-on test in which you’ll drive on the road. The driving test also must be taken in a vehicle that matches the class of CDL license you are trying to obtain. Other endorsements may also be tested for including air brakes, school buses, and vehicles that carry hazardous material. A Maryland CDL is within reach! Let us help guide you through Maryland’s CDL requirements!
Find CDL Training Schools in Maryland
There are plenty of training schools in areas like Annapolis, Baltimore, and other cities throughout Maryland. Luckily, our site provides great resources that will help you find the perfect school to advance your future trucking career. You’ll gain a stellar education by training inside and outside of the classroom. It’s time to embark on a new career – but first, make sure you’re getting a proper education.
CDL Training Costs in Maryland
Although the cost of CDL prep school in Maryland can be intimidating, there are actually a variety of ways that you can make Maryland CDL school financially feasible. The average cost of CDL schools in Maryland is about $5,000. Applying for financial aid through FAFSA is a great first step if you need help paying for a Maryland CDL education. If you qualify through FAFSA, a federal Pell Grant awarded through participating institutions is money that can be used for school and differs from a loan in that it doesn't need to be paid back. In many cases, a trucking company will pay for you to go to CDL training school in hopes that the trucking company is rewarded with a competent driver that’s ready to hit the road in no time.
CDL Prep in Maryland
CDL prep in Maryland doesn’t stop just because school is over. Luckily, our practice test can give you an idea of what to expect when you take your actual CDL exam. You’ll also want to make sure that you practice in the same vehicle that you plan on taking the test in. Drive a vehicle you’re familiar with to ensure that you’re in a comfortable setting when taking your Maryland CDL test. Our site will provide you with a variety of resources to ensure that you do your best when taking your Maryland CDL exam.
Maryland CDL Endorsement & Waivers
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) is the regulatory body that oversees CDL endorsements throughout the United States including Maryland. The Maryland’s endorsements include:
- Air Brakes
- Combination Vehicles
- Tankers
- Doubles/Triples
- Hazardous Materials
- Passenger Transport
Other demographics of professional drivers (emergency services, military, agriculture, etc.) rely on professional training from industry-specific service providers and usually do not need a CDL license. However, there are many restrictions that should also be noted, so be sure that you’re not breaking any rules when attempting to get your Maryland CDL.
CDL Tests in Maryland
To receive your Maryland CDL license you must pass both a written test as well as a road test. Once completing both of these, you will receive your CDL in Maryland.
CDL Knowledge Tests in Maryland
The knowledge portion of the Maryland CDL test consists of 50 questions that cover subjects like safety, pre-trip inspection, driving techniques, and road signs. To pass this portion, you must get at least an 80% on the exam. If you want to get a feel for how the exam will be formatted and what kind of questions to expect, our practice CDL test offers 50 questions that will help you prepare for your upcoming Maryland CDL exam. Once you complete this section, you will move on to the Maryland CDL road test.
CDL Skills Test in Maryland
The skills portion of the test will allow you to showcase your knowledge in a hands-on way. There will be three different aspects that the test will cover. Initially, you will be asked to conduct an inspection of your rig so you can identify any issues that may arise before you hit the road. Next, you will hit the road with your vehicle to make sure that you can properly identify road signs and the parts on your interior. Finally, you will be asked to maneuver the truck by turning, merging, and backing up. This is your final step to complete before you receive your Maryland CDL license.
Job Outlook in Maryland
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the number of trucking jobs in the United States is expected to increase 5% by 2024. While this may not seem significant, it is just below the anticipated increase of 7% for all occupations. It’s a great sign that the trucking industry is heading in the right direction. So, what are you waiting for? Become a Maryland CDL holder today!
Maryland Truck Driver Salary
The average driver in Maryland makes about $46,010 per year. This is just above the national average of $43,590. The investment you put into your CDL license education will surely be worth it when you land a trucking job that offers a stellar wage.