This page presents the source material collected so far. Some requirements may still need direct confirmation.
LALouisiana 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
- Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles
- Official CDL page
- expresslane.la.gov ↗
- Official CDL manual
- expresslane.la.gov ↗
- Testing, fees and appointments
- expresslane.la.gov ↗
- Knowledge-test language
- Confirm with the agency
We have not confirmed this state's current language policy from an official source. Ask the agency before you book.
- 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
- Learner permit (CLP)
A Louisiana CLP is issued for up to 180 days and can be extended once for another 180 days, but never beyond 360 days from first issue; you cannot take the skills test in the first 14 days.
- Fees
The CDL application fee is $15 (per the manual), and hazmat fingerprinting through the TSA agent costs $85.25.
- Age
Class A, B and C CDLs require age 18 for intrastate and 21 for interstate driving; the hazmat endorsement is only for drivers 21 and older.
- Also important
Skills tests are given by CDL Third Party Examiners, so you book with an examiner. Louisiana adds a 'no 18-wheelers' restriction if the Class A pulling unit is 26,000 lb or less, and requires the hazmat test again at every renewal.
Where this state's manual differs
- 5.1.11 Louisiana's manual says the low-air warning must come on before tank pressure falls below 60 psi (national text: 55 psi).
- 5.2 In the dual air brake section, Louisiana uses 60 psi for the warning light and buzzer (national: 55 psi).
State-only topics in the manual
- Louisiana anti-litter law page and crash-cost facts.
- Louisiana's 5 license classes (A–E) with age rules, endorsements, and CDL initial/renewal requirements.
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.