Colorado CDL at a Glance (Plain-English Summary)
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Age & eligibility:
18+ for intrastate driving, 21+ for interstate, hazmat, or passengers. -
License:
Valid Colorado driver’s license required. -
Medical card:
Must carry a valid DOT Medical Examiner’s Certificate unless exempt. -
CLP:
Pass knowledge tests to get a Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP). -
ELDT:
Entry‑Level Driver Training federally required for Class A/B and H, S, P endorsements. -
Skills test:
Hold CLP 14+ days before pre‑trip, basic control, and road test -
Hazmat:
Requires TSA background check and Hazmat knowledge exam. -
Testing agency:
Handled by the Colorado DMV (Division of Motor Vehicles).
What’s on the California CDL Knowledge Tests
General Knowledge
— safe driving, inspections, emergencies, road sharing, cargo, weather driving.Air Brakes
— brake system parts, dual systems, gauges, proper use, stopping distance.Combination Vehicles
— coupling/uncoupling, jackknife prevention, rollover, inspections.Hazardous Materials (H)
— hazmat classes, placards, shipping papers, segregation, TSA.Passenger (P) & School Bus (S)
— loading/unloading, emergency exits, prohibited practices, mirror checks.Tankers (N)
— surge/slosh, rollover risk, inspections, safe speed on curves.Doubles/Triples (T)
— converter dollies, coupling order, trailer checks, rollover prevention.Pre‑Trip Inspection
— engine, brakes, tires, suspension, lights, in‑cab checks, safety equipment.Required for All CDL Drivers
These tests are mandatory for all Commercial Driver's License applicants
About General Knowledge Tests
Basic rules, regulations, and safe driving practices for commercial vehicles
General Knowledge Test 1
Basic CDL knowledge and traffic laws
General Knowledge Test 2
Vehicle safety and inspection procedures
General Knowledge Test 3
Driving techniques and hazard awareness
General Knowledge Test 4
Transportation of cargo and passengers
General Knowledge Test 5
Emergency procedures and vehicle maintenance
General Knowledge Test 6
Final comprehensive review test
About Air Brakes Tests
Air brake systems, inspection, and operation procedures
Air Brakes Test 1
Basic air brake system components and operation
Air Brakes Test 2
Air brake inspection and testing procedures
Air Brakes Test 3
Emergency procedures and troubleshooting
Air Brakes Test 4
Advanced air brake systems and safety
About Pre-Trip Inspection Tests
Vehicle inspection procedures and safety checks
Pre-Trip Inspection Test 1
Engine compartment and cab inspection
Pre-Trip Inspection Test 2
Exterior vehicle inspection
Pre-Trip Inspection Test 3
Trailer and coupling system inspection
Endorsement Tests
Additional certifications for specialized commercial driving
About Combination Vehicles Tests
Tractor-trailers, truck and trailer combinations
Combination Vehicles Test 1
Coupling and uncoupling procedures
Combination Vehicles Test 2
Inspection of combination vehicles
Combination Vehicles Test 3
Driving combination vehicles safely
Combination Vehicles Test 4
Backing and maneuvering techniques
Combination Vehicles Test 5
Advanced combination vehicle operation
About Hazmat Tests
Hazardous materials transportation and safety
Hazmat Test 1
Hazmat classification and identification
Hazmat Test 2
Loading and handling procedures
Hazmat Test 3
Documentation and placarding
Hazmat Test 4
Emergency response and safety procedures
About Passenger Vehicles Tests
Buses and vehicles designed to transport passengers
Passenger Vehicle Test 1
Pre-trip inspection for passenger vehicles
Passenger Vehicle Test 2
Loading and unloading passengers
Passenger Vehicle Test 3
Passenger safety and emergency procedures
Passenger Vehicle Test 4
Special situations and regulations
About School Bus Tests
School bus operation and student transportation safety
School Bus Test 1
Loading and unloading students
School Bus Test 2
Emergency exits and evacuation procedures
School Bus Test 3
Student management and safety
School Bus Test 4
Special hazards and situations
About Tanker Vehicles Tests
Liquid cargo transportation and tank vehicle operation
Tanker Vehicle Test 1
Tanker vehicle inspection and safety
Tanker Vehicle Test 2
Driving techniques for liquid cargo
Tanker Vehicle Test 3
Loading, unloading, and emergency procedures
About Doubles/Triples Tests
Double and triple trailer combinations
Doubles/Triples Test 1
Coupling and inspection procedures
Doubles/Triples Test 2
Driving techniques and safety
Doubles/Triples Test 3
Emergency procedures and troubleshooting
FAQs — Arkansas CDL
Additional certifications for specialized commercial driving
Q1- Who needs a CDL in Colorado?
- A vehicle with GVWR 26,001 lb+
- A combination vehicle with GCWR 26,001 lb+ and trailer over 10,001 lb.
- A bus/van for 16+ passengers including driver.
- A hazmat placarded vehicle.