Georgia CDL Guide: How to Get Your Commercial Driver's License (2026 Updated)
In Georgia, the commercial driver's license (CDL) process is overseen by the Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS). Whether you're planning to drive a semi-truck in Atlanta, Savannah, or Augusta, this complete guide walks you through every legal requirement and fee — from applying for your CLP permit to passing the final skills road test.
01. ELDT Theory & Behind-the-Wheel Training Requirements
Under federal regulations issued by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), Under FMCSA Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) regulations, applicants must complete required ELDT training before obtaining a first-time Class A CDL, first-time Class B CDL, upgrading from Class B to Class A CDL, or adding a first-time HazMat (H), Passenger (P), or School Bus (S) endorsement. ELDT must be completed through a provider listed on the FMCSA Training Provider Registry (TPR). You must enroll with a training provider registered in the federal Training Provider Registry (TPR). Once you complete your training, the school reports your completion directly to the DDS system.
02. How to Apply for Your Georgia CDL Permit (CLP)
Your first step toward a full CDL is obtaining a Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP). Here's how the process works in Georgia:
03. Georgia CDL Fee Schedule (Official DDS Rates)
The following fees are collected by Georgia DDS (third-party driving school tuition and DOT physical costs are separate):
| Fee Item | Amount (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| CLP Application & Knowledge Test Fee | $35 | Covers the application processing and written test at the DDS center |
| CLP Issuance Fee | $10 | Paid when activating your Commercial Learner's Permit after passing the written test |
| CDL Skills Road Test Fee | $50 | Required upfront for each skills road test appointment |
| CDL License Issuance Fee | $32 | Paid after passing your road test to receive your 8-year commercial driver's license |
04. DOT Medical Certificate & Self-Certification Requirements
Most CDL applicants who will operate commercial vehicles in non-excepted interstate commerce must pass a DOT physical examination performed by a certified medical examiner listed on the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners (National Registry) and maintain a valid Medical Examiner's Certificate (Form MCSA-5876). CDL applicants must complete commercial driver self-certification with Georgia DDS.
Important: You must submit your medical certificate to DDS and complete a commercial driver self-certification on your application. Most interstate truckers will select Non-Excepted Interstate as their operating category. Failure to maintain required medical certification may result in a downgrade of your CDL driving privileges until valid medical certification is provided.
05. Georgia CDL Skills Road Test: 3 Required Parts
Once you've held your CLP for at least 14 days and completed ELDT training, you can schedule your CDL skills road test at a Georgia DDS testing site. The exam is rigorous — you must pass all three parts in sequence:
You must walk around the entire vehicle and verbally identify and check each component — including the engine compartment and an air brake leak-down test. In Georgia, applicants must successfully complete the required pre-trip inspection portion before continuing with the remaining CDL skills test sections.
Tests your ability to maneuver in a closed course, The Basic Control Skills test evaluates commercial vehicle maneuvering skills using exercises selected by the state, which may include straight-line backing, offset backing, alley docking, and other required maneuvers.
An examiner rides with you on public roads — The road test evaluates safe operation in traffic, including turns, lane changes, intersections, railroad crossings when applicable, and other driving situations selected by the examiner.
06. Georgia CDL Test Locations & How to Schedule
Not every Georgia DDS office handles CDL skills road tests. You'll need to visit a designated CDL Customer Service Center that has a dedicated truck testing course on site.
Book your CDL test appointment through the Georgia DDS official website or the DDS 2 GO mobile app. Slots fill quickly — plan to schedule at least 2–4 weeks in advance.
Don't waste your $35 test fee by walking in unprepared. Study with our free, up-to-date CDL practice tests covering every subject on the Georgia DDS knowledge exam: