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Commercial Driver License (CDL)
Most Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)


Q1:

I recently purchased a truck with a GVWR under 26,000 lbs, but it is equipped with air brakes.  I will be using it to transport non-hazardous materials.  Will I need a CDL to drive this truck?

A1:

No.  A CDL is not required to operate a vehicle if the GVWR is less than 26,001 lbs and it is not transporting hazardous materials or passengers.  The presence of air brakes alone does not make it a CDL class vehicle.


Q2:

I am a CDL holder and I was recently diagnosed with diabetes.  I will be on an Insulin pump.  Will I be able to keep my CDL?

A2:

You may retain your CDL, but a K2 restriction will be added to your license.  The K2 restriction forbids a driver from operating a CDL class vehicle outside state boundaries or operating a school bus, and severely limits the opportunities available for operating a commercial vehicle within state boundaries.  If you would like to know if the K2 restriction will interfere with your right to operate a vehicle within state boundaries, contact the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio (PUCO) @ 614-728-9125.


Q3:

I am a current CDL holder and have been told that I need a waiver to operate a commercial motor vehicle due to restrictions placed on my license (K2).  Who issues the CDL medical/vision waiver?

A3:

The waiver issued to drivers who would otherwise be ineligible to operate a commercial motor vehicle due to vision or medical/physical condition is available from either the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio (PUCO) at 614-728-9125 for intrastate waivers, or from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) at 703-448-3094 for interstate waivers.


Q4:

Where can I get a copy of the DOT physical form?

A4:

The DOT physical form is available for a fee from the Ohio Trucking Association (OTA).  For more information, contact the OTA at 888-382-1574.


Q5:

 I drive a pick-up truck for my job.  Am I required to stop at the scales?

A5:

It depends on the empty weight of the truck.  All trucks weighing 8,000 lbs or more empty are required to stop at the scales (including personal use rental vehicles).


Q6:

 I am a CDL Hazmat holder and I am concerned that the new Patriot Act will affect my CDL.  Where can I find more information about the USA Patriot Act?

A6:

For more information about the USA Patriot Act, visit the Transportation Security Administration Web site.


Q7:

 Is there a practice CDL test offered to help prepare me for the CDL tests for my permit?

A7:

No, the state of Ohio does not offer any type of CDL practice testing.  The reference material to help you prepare for the CDL exams can be found in the CDL Handbook, which is available free of charge at your local driver's exam station or license bureau.

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