How to Get a CDL in Utah 2026: Step-by-Step Guide
Utah CDL process for 2026: one-year Class D prerequisite, electronic medical certification, $52 written-test fee, 180-day permit, ELDT, and skills testing.
Utah has two prerequisites that deserve attention before you plan a test date: you must be at least 18 and you must have held a Class D license for one year. The Utah Driver License Division then uses a permit-and-training sequence similar to the federal model, but with Utah-specific fees, English-only testing, and a statewide mix of DLD and third-party skills-test options.
Step-by-step Utah CDL process
- Confirm you meet the age and one-year Class D driving-experience requirements.
- Complete the required medical examination. Your medical examiner should submit the MEC electronically before the CDL appointment; DLD recommends confirming it is on your record.
- Gather proof of identity, Social Security number, and Utah address plus your current driver license. Use original or certified documents that meet DLD requirements.
- Complete the CDL application and schedule an original-CDL appointment. Farmington, Logan, and Tooele currently do not process CDL licensing transactions.
- Pay the $52 nonrefundable CDL-with-written-test fee plus any endorsement fee and pass the required knowledge tests.
- Receive the commercial learner permit. Utah says the CLP is valid for 180 days.
- Hold the permit at least 14 days and complete applicable Entry-Level Driver Training before the skills test.
- Take the three-part CDL skills test either at DLD or through an approved CDL third-party tester.
- After all requirements are complete, DLD issues a temporary license; the physical CDL is mailed, typically in about four to six weeks.
Important 2026 non-domiciled CDL notice
Utah DLD states that, as of January 20, 2026, the state is pausing issuance of non-domiciled CDLs until further notice in connection with FMCSA's review of the Utah CDL program. A non-U.S.-citizen applicant who would need a non-domiciled credential should check DLD directly before paying for training or assuming the normal process is available.
English-only testing
Utah states that all CDL tests are administered in English and translation materials are prohibited. This differs from the language options available for some noncommercial Utah driver-license tests.
Your test vehicle can create restrictions
If you take the skills test in an automatic transmission, without full air brakes, or in a vehicle configuration that does not demonstrate the privileges you want, restrictions can be placed on the CDL. Choose training and test equipment based on the job you intend to pursue.
Official sources checked
Utah Driver License Division CDL Information, Original CDL, Written Knowledge Test, Driving Skills Test, Required Documents, and FMCSA ELDT guidance. Last verified October 6, 2026.