Arkansas Cdl Manual Download

07-03-2021
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1. Get Started Online With Commercial Drivers License Assistance

You cannot obtain a commercial drivers license online or through mail. Instead, you must apply for a CDL at your local DMV office, where you must take the driving skills test in person. However, depending on your states guidelines, you may be able to begin the application process by completing an online form. You may also be able to schedule your knowledge and skills tests online. With so many options available even before you step foot in a DMV, the CDL application process can seem intimidating or confusing. Thankfully, with the help of our detailed guide, you will get all the information you need about how to apply for a CDL in your state. Our guide covers everything from the types of commercial licenses available, the level of expertise each skill test requires and how to renew or replace your commercial license in the future.

Arkansas Cdl License Study Guide

FREE DMV CDL Class A Practice Test. Commercial Permit Drivers Sample Written Test Questions from local DMV. Our Online Drivers Prep Class A Test covers all CDL Trucker Test Questions. No need to Study the AR CDL Handbook. Practice your CDL Class A Permit Exam Today. In addition to the material found in the free AR CDL Manual (which is quite boring and confusing - and doesn't have a single question in it that is asked on the actual tests), the complete Arkansas CDL Test Prep package contains a Quick Review for each of the eight written tests - condensed bulleted items that you really do have to know in. This section of the Arkansas CDL (commercial drivers license) Manual - Arkansas CDL Handbook is for drivers who tow doubles or triples. Towing Double/Triple Trailers, Coupling and Uncoupling, Inspecting Doubles and Triples, Doubles/Triples Air Brake Check. 2005 Model Commercial Driver’s License Manual Section 1 - Introduction Page 1-2 1.1 – Commercial Driver License Tests 1.1.1 – Knowledge Tests You will have to take one or more knowledge tests, depending on what class of license and what endorsements you need. The CDL knowledge tests include: The general knowledge test, taken by all. Where To Get The CDL Manual. Please see the Arkansas OMV CDL Manual OR the manual is available to purchase at any OMV office. Additional Information. Please review all information regarding acquiring a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL).

2. In Person at the DMV

The only way to obtain a commercial drivers license in any state is to pass a written and skills test at your local DMV. You should bring the appropriate application filled out and all the required paperwork, such as proof of identity. A DMV employee will administer the skills test that corresponds with the type of commercial drivers license you applied for and will pass or fail you based on your performance. The application and testing process can easily take a few hours, so most DMVs will not allow walk-ins and require applicants to make an appointment ahead of time in order to take a skills test. Because this process can be very time consuming, it is important to go to the DMV well prepared. Additionally, showing up to your appointment unprepared may result in you failing your written or skills test, which will cost you both time and money to retake.

There is more than one type of Arkansas CDL, or commercial drivers license available to interested drivers. Each type authorizes holders to operate a specific type or range of commercial vehicles. While most people are familiar with the idea of a truck driver license, many are not aware that motorists need a CDL to drive large passenger vehicles or to transport passengers and cargo crossing state lines. In some cases, license holders need endorsements on their licenses, as well.

Both state and federal regulations apply to CDL license applications, testing and retention. Prospective commercial motorists must provide the DMV with numerous forms of documentation to prove their eligibility. They must pass written, on-road and medical exams demonstrating their ability to work and drive safely. There are many ways to prep for CDL application and testing, and getting a commercial license does not have to be time-consuming or expensive. Understanding the requirements in advance can significantly simplify the process.

CDL Requirements in Arkansas

Arkansas CDL requirements state that motorists must have regular drivers licenses that are in good standing in order to apply for commercial licenses. Applicants must also be 18 years of age or older, and pass a series of tests, including written and road skills tests and a DOT-mandated physical exam. Applicants must be able to document residency, citizenship and identity, as well. Under CDL license requirements, applicants seeking hazmat endorsements must undergo Transportation Safety Authority background checks before licensing.

Applicants may be disqualified from holding commercial licenses for committing certain offenses. These include, but are not limited to:

  • Drug and alcohol violations.
  • Leaving the scene of vehicle accidents.
  • Committing felonies.
  • Serious traffic violations.
  • Loss or revocation of their regular drivers license privileges.

How to Apply for a CDL Permit in Arkansas

Applying for an Arkansas CDL learners permit is a key first step to procuring a commercial drivers license. As with regular license learners permits, getting CDL permit credentials grants applicants the ability to practice driving under the supervision of licensed trainers. CDL permit holders may not drive commercial vehicles alone, and may be subject to other restrictions. CDL permit rules dictate that applicants:

  • Be 18 years of age or older.
  • Hold valid drivers licenses.
  • Complete and submit the correct DMV application.
  • Provide proof of identity, residency and citizenship.
  • Supply documentation of their DOT physical exam
  • Pay the associated fees.

Under CDL permit requirements, motorists cannot sit for their licensing exams on the same day in which they apply for their permits.

CDL Written Test in Arkansas

Arkansas CDL licensees cannot take an online CDL test. When they are ready to sit for the CDL general knowledge test, they must take them in person, at a DMV office. CDL permit test questions are taken directly from the manual, and applicants must achieve a score of 80 percent, or better, in order to pass. When taking the CDL written test, motorists applying for certain endorsements, such as the school bus endorsement, may be subject to additional questions or sections on the designated topic(s).

Arkansas CDL Training Schools & Practice Tests

There are numerous CDL training options available to new commercial driving candidates. All applicants need to review the CDL handbook, and are encouraged to use CDL practice test materials to assess their readiness before sitting for licensing exams.

In addition to the CDL book, some prospective licensees may wish to enroll in a CDL school in order to help them prepare. Schools can vary in cost, but may provide vehicles in which students can take their licensing tests and other valuable resources.

How to Get a CDL License in Arkansas

Arkansas applicants exploring how to get a CDL should begin by obtaining a copy of the state’s CDL book, and thoroughly reviewing the material. They should then collect their documents, complete a CDL application form and take both to their local DMV office for processing. To apply for CDL licenses, applicants must:

  • Be at least 18 years of age.
  • Have proof of age, residency and citizenship.
  • Have a valid drivers license.
  • Provide the DMV with the results of a DOT physical exam.
  • Sign any required self-certifications applicable to their applications.
  • Pay the associated fees.
  • Pass the applicable written and road skills tests.

Some motorists may find that the easiest way to get your CDL is to enroll in a school which provides comprehensive licensing services. However, CDL school attendance is not mandatory in Arkansas.

CDL Driving Test in Arkansas

The Arkansas CDL driving test has three distinct sections. Motorists must demonstrate the ability to conduct a vehicle inspection, show basic control over the vehicle and its functions and complete an on-road test course.

The CDL test may include additional skills or components related to endorsements that licensees wish to receive. Driving tests must be scheduled in advance, and applicants must test in vehicles matching, or approximating, those they will be licensed to operate.

How to Get a CDL as a Military Member in Arkansas

Servicemembers in the United States Armed Forces may qualify for Arkansas military CDL waivers to lessen the CDL requirements. Waivers allow eligible applicants to skip the skills testing portion of the CDL licensing process, and receive their commercial licenses more quickly and cheaply than other applicants. The CDL for veterans program is open only to applicants who:

  • Are actively serving in the military, or who separated on honorable terms within the last year.
  • Were authorized to drive military-grade vehicles during their service.
  • Actively drove military vehicles for a minimum period of time before separating or applying for their CDL licenses.

Waivers must be signed by applicants’ commanding officers, and only exempt applicants from the driving skills portion of testing. Motorists must still take all of the applicable written portions of the CDL licensing exam.

Arkansas Cdl Manual 2019

CDL Medical Exams in Arkansas

In accordance with new DOT physical requirements, Arkansas requires that CDL license applicants receive federally-mandated physicals before applying for learners permits. The physicals must be conducted by a certified DOT medical examiner, and applicants must bring the results of their exams to the DMV when applying.

Applicants who fail the CDL medical exam will not be able to test for or receive certain types of CDLs. CDL physical exam results are good for two years, and license holders must continue to pass the exams and keep current results on file with the DMV in order to maintain their licenses.

Types of CDL Classes in Arkansas

In accordance with federal guidelines, Arkansas offers three classes of CDLs. Each class is based on commercial vehicles’ weights and functions. Motorists must apply for specific types of licenses, dependent on their anticipated needs.

With a Class A license, motorists can drive combination vehicles such as tractor trailers with gross weights of 26,001 or more pounds. With a Class B CDL license, motorists can drive single vehicles with similar gross weights, or such vehicles towing other vehicles. A Class C CDL license allows drivers to operate large passenger vehicles or hazmat transportation vehicles.

Manual

Types of CDL Endorsements in Arkansas

Arkansas CDL endorsements are additional certifications commercial drivers license holders need in order to drive certain types of commercial vehicles. State endorsement options include the following:

  • School Bus Endorsement (S)
  • Double/Triple Trailer Endorsement (T)
  • Passenger Endorsement (P)
  • Hazmat Endorsement (H)
  • Tanker Endorsement (N)
  • Combination Tank and Hazmat Endorsement (X)

Keep in mind that applicants must test for endorsements when taking their road skills exams.

Interstate vs. Intrastate Commercial Drivers Licenses in Arkansas

In general, commercial motorists can hold intrastate CDL licenses if they expect to work exclusively within the state. On the other hand, residents who expect to cross state lines in commercial vehicles must hold interstate CDL licenses. Arkansas further breaks down these standard categories into:

  • Non-excepted interstate licenses.
  • Excepted interstate licenses.
  • Non-excepted intrastate licenses.
  • Excepted intrastate licenses.

CDL license holders transporting only certain types of goods covered under state exemption guidelines may qualify for excepted licenses, and may not be required to pass federal DOT medical exams.

Commercial Driving License Fees in Arkansas

Cdl

CDL license cost can vary, depending on what types of licenses and endorsements applicants pursue. CDL permit cost in Arkansas includes:

  • Commercial drivers license: $42
  • CDL license test fee: $50

Arkansas CDL Forms

Note: DMV forms change regularly. The forms provided above are current based on the date of writing.

Sources

  1. Commercial Drivers License Helpdesk from Dfa.arkansas.gov
  2. CDL Requirements from Dfa.arkansas.gov
  3. Commercial Drivers Medical Certification from Dfa.arkansas.gov

What's better than cruising down the open road? How about getting paid to do so? It's possible, if you wish to do it in a large commercial vehicle and get your Arkansas commercial driver's license (CDL).

The process is regulated nationally by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, and in Arkansas, the Department of Finance and Administration (DFA) Driver Services (ODS) is in charge of giving out licenses.

Who Can Get an Arkansas CDL?

To be eligible for an Arkansas commercial driver's license, you'll need to:

  • Be at least 18 years old.
  • Have a valid regular driver's license.

If you're under 21 years old, you will only be allowed to drive a commercial vehicle within Arkansas—referred to as intrastate driving.

If you're transferringyour CDL from another state to Arkansas, you'll have to do so within 30 days of establishing your AR residency. Follow the instructions below to transfer your out-of-state commercial driver's license.

Arkansas Commercial Learner's Permits

There's one step you'll have to take before you can drive commercial vehicles on your own in Arkansas and beyond: getting your commercial learner's permit (CLP).

While it's not required by either the ODS or the FMCSA, both agencies recommend getting some CDL education before you begin the licensing process.

Once you feel ready, schedule an appointment to take your CDL written exams. All commercial driver license testing in AR is overseen by the Arkansas State Police.

  • Provide proof of U.S. citizenship/lawful permanent residency. Acceptable documents include:
    • Valid, unexpired U.S. passport.
    • Certified copy of your birth certificate.
    • Certificate of naturalization or citizenship.
  • Bring the proper medical paperwork.
  • Show them proof of your AR address. Documents must also include your full name.
  • Submit to a driving record check.
    • You'll need to name any state(s) where you held a license in the last 10 years.
  • Pay the $50 CDL testing fee.

To get your commercial learner's permit, you'll also have to take the proper written tests for the class of commercial driver license you want. When you pass, the ODS will issue your Arkansas CLP.

CLP Restrictions in Arkansas

Just like with a regular learner's permit, your CLP comes with a couple of rules and restrictions, written by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. While you have your CLP, you will only be allowed to drive on public roads, while accompanied by a full CDL holder.

You will also have to practice on your commercial learner's permit for a certain period of time before the Driver Services will let you take your skills test to earn your commercial driver's license. While the federal law mandates a waiting period of 14 days, this could be different for you.

Make sure to check with your local ODS office about the specific waiting period in Arkansas.

Getting an AR Commercial Driver License

To turn your CLP into a CDL, you'll have to return to an Arkansas State Police testing facility or a third-party tester to take your commercial driver's license skills exam. This consists of several parts, including a:

  • Pre-trip vehicle inspection.
  • Basic vehicle control test.
  • On-road driving exam.

Make sure you can take this part of your test in the same type of vehicle you want to operate with your commercial driver license. If you can't, there might be a restriction placed on your CDL.

After you pass your tests, pay the $42 CDL fee and celebrate, because you're a commercial motor vehicle driver!

Commercial Drivers Practice Tests (CDL)

We offer a series of DMV Practice tests to help you prepare for your Commercial Driver License test. In addition to carefully studying your state's driver handbook, these tests will give you an idea about the types of questions you may see on the actual written test.

  • 100 Questions - Unlimited Tests$14.95
  • 50 Questions - Unlimited Tests$9.95

CDL Fees in Arkansas

The Arkansas Driver Services charges the following for commercial driver's licenses and other related services:

  • Commercial driver's licenses test fee: $50.
  • Commercial driver's license: $42.

Many states also require additional fees for each endorsement you have. If you're interested in getting an endorsement, ask the ODS if there's an extra charge.

CDL Medical Requirements

Before you can get your commercial learner's permit, you'll need to have the proper medical paperwork to hand into the Arkansas ODS office.

All CDL holders in AR are required to fill out a Self-Certification Affidavit. You'll need to indicate the type of driving you expect to be doing with your commercial driver's license. The AR Driver Services has created a guide to help you certify.

You’ll must submit a Medical Examiner’s Certificate* (Form MCSA-5876) along with your self-certification ONLYif you are certify as a:

  • Non-excepted interstate driver.
    OR
  • Non-excepted intrastate driver.

Your medical certificate must be completed by a certified medical examiner.

If you have more questions, check out the FAQ page put together by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration.

*Your medical certificate typically expires every 2 years, but the examiner can choose to set the expiration date sooner based on certain medical conditions. Repeat the self-certification processbefore your certificate expires.

Arkansas Military CDL Waivers

The FMCSA has created a program to help current service members and recent veterans earn their CDLs by waiving the commercial driver's license skills exam.

You may qualify if you have some military experience driving a commercial motor vehicle or Armed Forces equivalent, and:

  • Are currently in the military.
    OR
  • Have been employed full-time by the military within a certain window of applying for the waiver.

Most states require you to file some additional paperwork at the time of applying for your commercial learner's permit. Check with your local ODS office to ask about their implementation of this waiver system, and to see if they need you to bring any extra forms.

For more information, you can consult our guide to the military skills test waiver.

AR CDL Classes, Endorsements & Restrictions

CDL Classifications in Arkansas

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration has established several categories of CDL, each of which allowing you to drive different types of vehicles. The license classifications include:

  • Class A CDL—Allows you to drive a combination of vehicles over a certain gross weight, such as a tractor-trailer.
  • Class B CDL—Lets you drive a single vehicle over a certain gross weight, like a straight truck.
  • Class C CDL—Permits you to drive all other types of vehicles over a certain weight not covered by Class A or Class B commercial driver's licenses.

Your application process may look a bit different depending on the class of CDL you want. Be prepared to take slightly different knowledge or skills exams. License fees may also be affected by the type of CDL you get.

For more information, check out our page on CDL classifications.

Arkansas CDL Endorsements & Restrictions

An endorsement is an extra certification you can add to your commercial driver's license that will allow you to operate a larger number of vehicles. You can earn an endorsement by taking extra written or skills exams and paying additional fees to the Driver Services.

The FMCSA will allow CDL holders to get endorsements for driving:

  • HAZMAT vehicles.
  • School buses or other passenger vehicles.
  • Double or triple trailers.
  • Tank vehicles.

A restriction is essentially the opposite of an endorsement; it limits the number of vehicles you're permitted to drive. You could have a restriction placed on your CDL for a number of reasons, including:

  • Taking your CDL skills test in the wrong type of vehicle.
  • Not being able to operate full air brakes.
  • Not being able to drive a manual transmission.

Restrictions can usually be removed from your license, however, as long as you can pass extra tests and pay some additional fees.

To read up on more general information on how endorsements and restrictions work, check out our CDL Endorsements & Restrictions page.