The steps
- Get a DOT medical card. A commercial driver must pass a physical with a medical examiner listed on FMCSA’s National Registry (49 CFR 391.41, 391.43); the certificate lasts up to 24 months.
- Pass the knowledge test and get a commercial learner’s permit (CLP). The CLP lets you practise with a qualified CDL holder beside you and is valid for no more than a year (49 CFR 383.25).
- Hold the CLP for at least 14 days before taking the skills test (383.25(e)).
- Complete entry-level driver training with a provider on FMCSA’s Training Provider Registry, if this is your first Class A or B CDL, an upgrade, or a first passenger, school bus or HazMat endorsement (49 CFR 380.609). 73 registered providers have a training location in Montana, 73 of them offering behind-the-wheel training.
- Take the skills test: vehicle inspection, basic control skills and an on-road test, in a vehicle of the class you want (49 CFR 383.113). Where it is given in Montana is listed below.
- Age. Driving across state lines requires being at least 21 (49 CFR 391.11(b)(1)); a state may license drivers from 18 for driving inside the state only.
Where to take the CDL test in Montana
47 offices and test sites in Montana are on the official lists. The most are in Baker (1), Big Timber (1), Billings (1), Bozeman (1), Broadus (1), Butte (1), Chester (1), Chinook (1), Choteau (1), Circle (1). See all CDL testing and DMV offices in Montana, with a map and search by city or ZIP.
CDL schools in Montana
73 training providers registered with FMCSA list a location in Montana. The most are in Hamilton (5), Kalispell (5), Havre (4), Missoula (4), Lewistown (3), Glendive (3), Billings (3), Butte (3), Helena (3), Miles City (2). See all CDL schools in Montana.
Adding HazMat
The hazardous materials endorsement needs a TSA security threat assessment with fingerprints (49 CFR 1572). 3 TSA enrollment centers in Montana take HazMat applications. See the enrollment centers in Montana.