Maryland CDL Requirements

How to get a CDL in Maryland through the MVA, including fees, testing, and training options.

CDL Classes and Eligibility

The Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) issues CDLs in three classes. Class A covers combination vehicles over 26,001 lbs towing over 10,000 lbs. Class B covers single vehicles over 26,001 lbs. Class C covers hazmat or passenger vehicles. Applicants must be 18 for intrastate or 21 for interstate. Maryland requires a valid Maryland driver license, Social Security card, proof of Maryland residency, and US citizenship/legal presence. ELDT requirements apply. Maryland has approximately 40 FMCSA-registered ELDT providers concentrated in the Baltimore-Washington metro area, with additional options in Frederick, Hagerstown, and the Eastern Shore.

Testing and Fees

The Maryland CDL costs $72 for a 5-year license. The CLP costs $50 and is valid for 180 days. Knowledge tests are administered at MVA offices at no additional charge. Skills tests are available at MVA or through third-party testers at $200-$400. Maryland MVA CDL testing is available at the Glen Burnie headquarters and other designated locations. Wait times for state-administered skills tests can be 2-4 weeks. Third-party testers offer faster scheduling. Knowledge tests are available in English and Spanish. Maryland allows three skills test attempts before additional training is required.

Training and Endorsements

Maryland CDL training options include Community College of Baltimore County, Hagerstown Community College, and Frederick Community College at $2,500-$5,000. Private schools charge $4,000-$8,000. The Maryland Department of Labor offers WIOA training assistance. Endorsements follow federal standards. The most in-demand in Maryland are T (Double/Triple, for Port of Baltimore and I-95 LTL operations), P (Passenger, for MTA bus operations and DC-area transit), and H (Hazmat, for chemical distribution). The Port of Baltimore's auto import operations create demand for experienced CDL holders with auto hauling experience. Military veterans at Aberdeen Proving Ground and Joint Base Andrews can access transition CDL programs.

FAQs — Maryland CDL Requirements

The Maryland CDL is $72 for 5 years. CLP is $50. Skills testing is free at MVA or $200-$400 at third-party testers. CDL school costs $2,500-$5,000 at community colleges or $4,000-$8,000 at private schools. Maryland Department of Labor provides WIOA training funds for eligible applicants.

Double/Triple (T) for Port of Baltimore and I-95 LTL operations. Passenger (P) for MTA and DC-area transit. Hazmat (H) for chemical distribution. TWIC card ($125.25) is essential for port access. Auto hauling experience plus CDL commands premium pay for Baltimore port operations.

MVA offers CDL testing at the Glen Burnie headquarters and designated locations. Wait times are 2-4 weeks. Third-party testers offer faster scheduling at $200-$400. Knowledge tests are at all MVA offices. Appointments can be made through the MVA website.