Missouri is essentially the same as other states when it comes to driving big rigs and other large vehicles. Federal law has minimum CDL requirements that are enforced by the states. Prospective commercial drivers must take a written knowledge test with the Missouri State Highway Patrol Driver Examination Division. After passing that test, an applicant can get a CDL permit for training. When a driver has completed CDL training, he can then go back to the Highway Patrol and take a hands-on skills test to get a Missouri CDL license.
Step 1:
Access the Missouri CDL manual (the “Missouri Department of Revenue Missouri Commercial Driver License Manual”) at Dor.mo.gov/forms/Commerical_Driver_License.pdf. Read through the manual to get details on the process of getting a CDL license in Missouri, The manual also contains the knowledge necessary to pass the CDL written knowledge test.
Before taking the test, make sure you have passed the required medical examination. Ask the local Driver Examination Division of the Missouri Highway Patrol about how to get a medical exam for your CDL application process.
Step 2:
Study the Missouri CDL manual to prepare for the written part of the Missouri CDL test. All commercial driver’s license manuals contain general sections that apply to all testers and specialized “endorsement” sections. You only have to take the endorsement exams that are relevant t to the type of vehicle you anticipate driving when you get a job.
For example, you would need to take the HAZMAT test if you will be hauling hazardous materials. If you are new to the commercial driving industry and don’t have a job offer, consider studying the entire manual and taking all endorsement tests.
Supplement your study of the CDL manual with additional online CDL study material. If you search for “CDL study guide” and “CDL practice test” in a search engine, you will find some free resources to help you get eady for the CDL written test.
Step 3:
Take the test at a local Driver Examination Division. You can find testing stations at the Missouri State Highway Patrol website at Mshp.dps.mo.gov/HP32DES/DESTable.jsp. When you pass, you can get a Missouri CDL permit to start training on commercial motor vehicles.
Step 4:
Find a way to train in or around Missouri for your CDL skills test. The skills test can include inspections, maneuvering ability and driving on the road. Truck drivers can get training at a certified truck driver training school. The Professional Truck Driver Institute has a list at Ptdi.org/schools/schools.aspx.
Other options can include employer-sponsored CDL training or government-sponsored programs (such as school-bus-driver training programs through the local Missouri school district.
Step 5:
Schedule your skills test. Click on “CDL Testing Locations” at Mshp.dps.missouri.gov/MSHPWeb/PatrolDivisions/DED/index.html. Call or visit to make an appointment for your CDL skills test.
Generally, you must have your own vehicle available for the testing. Consult with the licensing office and your training provider or employer about your testing options.
Step 6:
Take your skills/driving test. If you pass, you will get a Missouri CDL license and can work as a commercial driver in Missouri.
Sources:
Missouri CDL Manual
Truck Driver Training Schools with PTDI Certification
