Michigan CDL Test Locations 2026: SOS Knowledge & Third-Party Skills
Where to take Michigan CDL tests in 2026: Secretary of State knowledge testing, approved third-party skills testers, scheduling, and fee differences.
Michigan does not use the same location for every CDL test. Written CDL knowledge exams are available through Secretary of State offices, while the state does not administer the CDL driving skills test. Skills testing is performed by approved Driver Testing Businesses.
Knowledge tests: Secretary of State offices
Michigan says CDL written knowledge exams can be completed at any Secretary of State office using an electronic testing station. Study the Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual for the vehicle class, brake system, and endorsements you need. If you fail a CDL knowledge test, the state requires a one-day wait before retesting.
Skills tests: approved Driver Testing Businesses
Use the Michigan Secretary of State Driver Testing Business search to find approved CDL testers. The search lets you identify authorized businesses rather than relying on a school or search-engine listing. Michigan makes clear that it does not administer the skills tests itself.
Prices are not standardized
Each testing business sets its own CDL skills-test fee, and Michigan says those fees are not regulated by law. Before booking, ask for the complete fee and refund policy, including retest costs, cancellation or no-show charges, vehicle-rental fees, and any charge if the appointment cannot proceed because of documents or equipment.
Schedule only after checking eligibility
A CLP holder must satisfy the 14-day federal holding period, and applicable ELDT must be complete before the skills test is administered. Michigan also says a skills test must be scheduled at least two days in advance of the date you are eligible to test. Avoid paying a nonrefundable testing fee until your permit, medical status, ELDT record, and vehicle are ready.
The skills test has three parts
- Vehicle inspection: demonstrate that you can identify and evaluate safety-critical components.
- Basic vehicle control: perform required low-speed maneuvers in the test area.
- On-road driving: demonstrate safe operation in traffic and real road conditions.
Official sources checked
Michigan Secretary of State CDL application guidance, Driver Testing Business guidance, accessibility/testing guidance, and Michigan CDL Manual. Last verified October 6, 2026.