This page presents the source material collected so far. Some requirements may still need direct confirmation.
OHOhio CDL permit test guide
The core course follows the national manual text most states use. When your state manual gives a different number, it wins.
- Licensing agency
- Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles
- Official CDL page
- ohiobmv.gov ↗
- Official CDL manual
- bmv.ohio.gov ↗
- Testing, fees and appointments
- ohiobmv.gov ↗
- Knowledge-test language
- Confirm with the agency
Ohio's CDL page says commercial drivers must read, speak and write English (49 CFR 391.11) and that translation aids are prohibited. Ohio also posts a Spanish copy of the CDL manual for study.
- Source collection date
Steps to your CDL (federal minimums)
- Choose your class (A, B or C) and endorsements.
- Get a DOT medical exam from a provider on the National Registry and a medical examiner's certificate.
- Pass the knowledge tests at the state agency to get your commercial learner's permit (CLP).
- Hold the CLP at least 14 days and practice with a qualified CDL holder. A CLP is valid for up to one year (some states less).
- Complete entry-level driver training (ELDT) with a registered provider.
- Pass the skills test: pre-trip inspection, basic control and road test, in English.
- Get your CDL. You must be 21 to drive across state lines.
What is different in this state
- Test languages
Ohio's CDL page says commercial drivers must read, speak and write English (49 CFR 391.11) and that translation aids are prohibited. Ohio also posts a Spanish copy of the CDL manual for study.
- Learner permit (CLP)
An Ohio CLP is valid for 12 months, and you must buy your CDL before the CLP expires after passing the skills test.
- Fees
At state testing sites: pre-trip $10, basic control $10, road test $30. Third-party sites set their own fees.
- Age
You must be at least 18; drivers under 21 are limited to commercial driving within Ohio.
- Also important
Skills test time limits: pre-trip 30 minutes, basic control 40 minutes, whole test within 3 hours. If you fail any part, you must wait 2 days to retest.
Where this state's manual differs
- 5.1.11 Ohio's manual says the warning light comes on below 55 psi, but describes the wig-wag dropping below 60 psi (national 2017 text uses 55 psi for both).
State-only topics in the manual
- Ohio BMV notes on self-certification and medical certificates, plus a QR link to third-party and state testing sites.
Source collection date:
The three permit tests
General Knowledge
Required for every CDL class.
Mock examAir Brakes
Needed to drive a vehicle with air brakes without an "L" restriction.
Mock examCombination Vehicles
Needed for Class A (tractor-trailers).
Mock exam7CDL is an independent study aid. It is not a government website, not affiliated with any state agency, FMCSA or AAMVA, and not an ELDT provider. Always check your state's official CDL manual and agency.