How Do I Get A CDL License?
Go to the DMV and ask for a Commercial Driver License Manual. Read the manual and return to the DMV to take three 'written' (now on computer) tests:
1. General Knowledge Test
2. Passenger Transport Knowledge
3. Air Brakes Test (optional). Since our church bus has hydraulic brakes you may be excused but will have a 'K' restriction on your license.
After passing all three (or two) tests you will receive a 'permit' to learn how to drive a bus. Once you acquire your permit, you need to get the medical exam on the form provided by the DMV. The doctor needs to check your hearing, vision, do urinalysis and check overall health. Insulin dependent diabetics may not drive a bus! Once you are issued a permit, you have six months in order to pass the CDL requirements to get a license!
A certified driver will train you on how to prepare for the basic skills (actual driving) test next. This includes the CDL pre-trip inspection, basic control skills and the road test. Brent Ellenburg is willing to train drivers for this part of the test, in the church bus.
Once you are ready to take the final CDL tests, call the DMV and make an appointment. This test takes longer than standard driving tests so allow 90 minutes for all parts. Your vision will be rechecked at the DMV free, before you are issued a license. Take the completed medical with you to turn in to the examiner!
The church bus will have to be delivered to the DMV prior to the test, so let Mary Wolfe know when you are scheduled. You must be tested in the vehicle that you plan to drive. Make sure that you get a set of bus keys to take with you.
The initial cost for making application for a CDL is $15.00. Each of the 'written tests' costs $2.00 to take ($6.00 total). Once you have passed all tests, you are issued a permit, that costs $2.50. Your final CDL license costs $12.50. Make sure that you have a 'P' (passenger) endorsement on your license. The license is good for 5 years. Your license will be a class C (19,500 lb.wt.), since we have a 24 passenger bus. School buses require a class B license and an 'S' endorsement.
Once you pass your tests and get a license, call Mary Wolfe. You will also need to go by Earle Youngblood State Farm Insurance Agency in Pickens and have them make a copy of your new license and social security card. This will place you on the insurance policy as a qualified, certified driver for Grace!
Thank you for helping us out at
Grace Church!