CDL License Requirements & Training in New Hampshire :: AllTruckJobs.com

New Hampshire Commercial Driver’s License Requirements

There are a few things to consider before you start your journey towards a New Hampshire CDL gig. According to New Hampshire CDL requirements, you must be at least 18 years old, pass a current physical examination, and have a valid driver’s license. Since the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) regulates interstate transportation of cargo, you must be at least 21 years old to travel across state lines to deliver cargo. 

All CDL applicants 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 during which you’ll drive on the road. You’ll need to take this test in the same class of vehicle as the license you’ll be earning. It is also good to consider what types of endorsements you’d like to acquire, which will allow you to take on more specialized jobs and expand your knowledge.

Find CDL Schools in New Hampshire

With a growing demand for professional drivers who have solid credentials, finding the right New Hampshire CDL school will really ensure you haven’t overlooked any critical details before starting your career as a commercial driver in New Hampshire. Gaining a solid educational background will really help you expand your opportunities and show that you’re a serious candidate while searching for jobs. Whether you attend a public, private, or community college, it’s all about gaining the skills to help you get ahead – that means everything from how to properly inspect your vehicle, to the details of life on the road and operating a commercial rig with precision and safety. Search for CDL Schools in New Hampshire and start on your road to education today!

CDL Training Costs in New Hampshire

CDL training program costs vary from one state to the next, ranging anywhere from $2,000-$8,300 depending on the number of additional courses and specialized knowledge received. These costs will cover your time spent both in the classroom and behind the wheel, including any of the necessary course materials, preparing the necessary health and legal information, as well as the additional endorsements you seek to gain. 

Like most college courses and programs, New Hampshire CDL students can apply for FAFSA student aid in order to cover some of the initial costs of tuition. Another source of income usable toward getting your CDL license include the federal Pell Grant, which can be awarded through participating institutions. Students who are absolutely serious about becoming commercial drivers can also opt for a company-sponsored training program. In this scenario, a trucking company will cover the costs of your New Hampshire CDL education in exchange for you working for a period of time afterward to reimburse them. This is a strict financial agreement, but can guarantee a job and a solid start to a new commercial driver’s career!

CDL Prep in New Hampshire

Preparing for your CDL tests is all about spending the time to thoroughly learn all of the materials so that you’ll feel comfortable when proving your skills. Studying hard and reviewing all of your materials is never a bad idea, but when it comes to taking your actual written test it can help to get a feel for the experience by using our practice CDL test! Feel free to take this practice test as many times as you need to in order to feel confident for the real deal. 

Beyond the written test, you’ll want to practice your driving portion in the same vehicle that you’ll use to complete your final road test. Students may want to consider a rental option in order to guarantee that you’ll have access to the appropriate vehicle for the job!

New Hampshire CDL Endorsement & Waivers

While you are working toward meeting all of the New Hampshire CDL requirements, you’ll also need to consider whether you will want to acquire any specialized knowledge that would allow you to handle certain types of cargo. Taking additional courses to earn endorsements come at the expense of more testing and money, but can be well worth the effort! At the end of your endorsement training, you’ll have access to more specialized jobs and ultimately a more diverse range of options for your career. These are the most common endorsement types found throughout New Hampshire and the rest of the United States:

  • School Bus - S
  • Passenger - P
  • Tank Vehicles - N
  • Double/Triple - T
  • Hazardous Materials - H
  • Combination Tank / Hazardous Materials - X

CDL Tests in New Hampshire

Now the time has finally come and you’re ready to take your final written and road tests to meet all of your CDL requirements in New Hampshire. You’ve spent many hours behind the wheel and hitting the books, and you’ll finally be able to prove what you’ve learned. As with any test, it’s important to know what you’re getting into – below is a preview of what you’re likely to find before your New Hampshire commercial driving career can begin!

CDL Knowledge Tests in New Hampshire

Similar to a personal driver’s license test, you’ll answer around 50 questions that cover a wide range of information. This includes commercial vehicle regulations, road safety, and rules, how to handle equipment, proper loading and unloading procedures, and other basics. Earning an 80% or above is a passing grade, allowing you to move on to your road test where you’ll really display your confidence and mastery as a budding commercial driver.

CDL Skills Test in New Hampshire

Separate from the written test, instructors will test your knowledge and familiarity with your class of vehicle, as well as how well you know the proper procedures for handling cargo, utilizing your breaking system, and other important mechanical processes involved during transport. This also includes going over your pre-trip inspection tests and being able to determine whether your vehicle is safe to operate.

Finally, you’ll be onto the road test where you’ll be asked to perform turns, backing up, changing lanes, and identify traffic signs in order to respond safely and effectively. Doing well in this portion is essential to your success as a CDL driver because it really demonstrates your demonstrative skill as a driver and allows instructors to be confident in your abilities, especially if they are the ones sponsoring your education.

Job Outlook in New Hampshire

With the current driver shortage growing more severe each year, you can be one of the sought-after individuals to step into the world of commercial driving! In most cases, the shortage is really a lack of quality rather than quantity, so an education and formal training will really set you apart from the rest when applying for a job. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the outlook for trucking jobs is set to increase 5% from now until 2024, meaning you’ll have plenty of opportunities for work for years to come. Meeting all of the New Hampshire CDL requirements and earning your license is ultimately a very safe career move and a great way to make a living.

New Hampshire Truck Driver Salary

Based on the most recent BLS data, the average annual trucking job in New Hampshire is currently$43,030. Although pay rates will vary between states and even counties or metropolitan areas, gaining more experience on the road will make you a valuable hire as you continue your career. Adding more endorsements to your license will also continually open up new opportunities to haul different types of cargo. Start looking for a New Hampshire Commercial Driving job today and keep your future moving forward with AllTruckJobs.com!