Alabama Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP) / Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Steps and Instructions

If you’re researching how to get your Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) or Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) in Alabama, you’re in the right place. The process can feel confusing at first, so we’ve broken down the most common questions drivers ask when getting started.

Getting Your Alabama Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) or Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP)

1. What is the minimum age to get a CDL or CLP in Alabama?
   • Drivers must be at least 18 years old to operate a commercial vehicle within Alabama (intrastate).
   • To drive across state lines or haul interstate freight, you must be 21 years of age.
2. Do I need a regular driver’s license first?
   • Yes. You must hold a valid Alabama Class D driver’s license before applying for a CLP or CDL.
   • Your license must be active and in good standing throughout the entire permit process.
3. What should I study to prepare for the Alabama CLP test?
   • The best place to start is the official CDL Manual published by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).
   • You can access it here: CDL Manual – Study Guide
4. Which sections of the CDL manual matter most?
   • While the full manual is important, most applicants should focus on:
     • General Knowledge
     • Safe Driving Practices
     • Transporting Cargo
     • Air Brakes
     • Combination Vehicles
5. Are there CDL practice tests for Alabama?
   • Yes. Practice exams are a great way to prepare before taking the written test.
     • Alabama CDL Practice Test – General Knowledge
     • Alabama CDL Practice Test – Combination Vehicles
     • Alabama CDL Practice Test – Air Brakes
6. Is there an application I need to complete?
   • Yes. You must apply for a Commercial Learner’s Permit through the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA).
   • Applicants are required to:
     • Verify their identity
     • Provide proof of lawful presence
     • Show Alabama residency
     • Provide a valid Social Security number
7. Does Alabama require a medical exam for CDL drivers?
   • Yes. All CDL applicants must meet federal medical certification standards.
   • You’ll need to complete a DOT physical and submit a valid Medical Examiner’s Certificate.
   • More details can be found through the Alabama CDL medical requirements.

If you have questions while researching your CDL options, our Get Your CDL team is here to help. Call 715-591-7050 (ext. 8, then option 2) or get started today.

Alabama Department of Public Safety / ALEA

Alabama CDL Information – Apply for a CLP or CDL

Thinking about a new career? Feel like the open road might be calling your name? Many people in Alabama consider truck driving but hesitate because of the cost of CDL school. That hesitation is understandable — but it shouldn’t hold you back. The trucking industry is evolving, and with a nationwide driver shortage, there’s never been a better time to step into a stable, well-paying career behind the wheel.

Here’s the good news: Roehl will pay you to learn how to drive a truck. That’s right — you can earn your CDL without paying for school upfront. Our paid CDL training program allows you to learn while earning a paycheck, so you can start building your future without taking on student debt.

Why Truck Driving Is a Smart Career Choice in Alabama

One of the biggest reasons people choose truck driving is earning potential. Roehl drivers can earn $70,000 or more annually — often more than many traditional careers that require expensive college degrees. But the benefits go well beyond pay:

• Your CDL training is included as part of the job.
• You’re hired as a full-time employee from day one.
• You earn money while training for your CDL.
• Training typically takes about three weeks and is available at multiple locations.
• Lodging and most meals are provided during training.
• After earning your CDL, you’ll continue paid, hands-on training as a professional driver.
• No out-of-pocket tuition like traditional CDL schools require.
• Full benefits and long-term career stability with a respected national carrier.

Instead of paying thousands for truck driving school, you can start earning right away and gain real-world experience behind the wheel. With many veteran drivers nearing retirement, demand for qualified drivers continues to grow — making now an excellent time to enter the industry and build a long-term career.

Roehl makes the transition easy. Once you complete your CDL training, you’ll step directly into full-time employment with benefits. There’s no job hunting or uncertainty — you’ll already have a position waiting for you as a professional long-haul driver.

What Does Roehl Ask in Return?

Roehl invests in your training, and in return, drivers commit to driving a minimum of 120,000 solo paid miles (about 15 months). This ensures you gain real experience while building a stable and rewarding career.

Ready to take the next step? Learn more about how you can earn while you learn with Roehl. It’s more than CDL training — it’s a path to long-term success and financial stability.

Apply Now