Michigan CDL License Requirements
Before you pursue a Michigan trucking education, there are a few things that you should know. You must be at least 18 years old, pass a current physical examination, and have a valid driver’s license, according to Michigan CDL requirements. The U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) regulates interstate transportation of cargo, so if you want to travel across state lines to deliver cargo, you must be at least 21 years old. All CDL applicants then need to pass a general knowledge exam and a skills test, which includes a pre-trip vehicle inspection, a basic vehicle knowledge test, and a hands-on test in which you’ll drive on the road. The driving test also must be taken in a vehicle that matches the class of CDL license you are trying to obtain. Other endorsements may also be tested for including air brakes, school buses, and vehicles that carry hazardous material. Make sure that these requirements are fulfilled before you decide to pursue your Michigan CDL license any further.
Find CDL Schools in Michigan
Michigan CDL schools are the best way to get the proper education you need so you can pass your Michigan CDL exam. Luckily, our site provides great resources that will help you find the perfect school to advance your future trucking career. These schools will show you the ropes through both in-class and outside the classroom training. You’ll gain experience behind the wheel in a controlled setting as well as learn how to properly inspect your vehicle before during and after you hit the road. It’s time to grab your notebook and pencil and head back to the classroom. You won’t regret it!
CDL Training Costs in Michigan
Currently, the average tuition cost of a CDL training school is around $6,600. While this may seem like a steep price, remember that there are a few ways to pay for tuition Applying for financial aid through FAFSA is a great way to get some help when it comes to paying for Michigan trucking school. If you qualify through FAFSA, a federal Pell Grant awarded through participating institutions is money that can be used for school and differs from a loan in that it doesn't need to be paid back. Another great way to pay for Michigan trucking school is to sign on with a trucking company that will pay for schooling and then hire you upon getting your CDL certification.
CDL Prep in Michigan
It’s time to conquer that Michigan CDL test. However, there are a few things you should still consider before you take your Michigan CDL test. Your countless hours in the classroom and on the road have led up to this final test. It’s time to brush up and prepare for the exam. Luckily, our practice test can give you an idea of what to expect when you take your actual exam. You’ll also want to make sure that you practice in the same vehicle to take the test in. Driving a vehicle you’re comfortable in will make you feel more at ease when taking the road portion of your test. You can never study too much, so make sure to put in the time and effort to ace your exam.
Michigan CDL Endorsement & Waivers
With a Michigan CDL, the individual or their employer might next require specialization to carry certain types of endorsements to cover other areas and extra testing is required to ensure that the operator knows the additional responsibility of safe handling under the law. The following types of endorsements are common throughout Michigan and other states.
- School Bus
- Passenger
- Tank Vehicles
- Double/Triple
- Hazardous Materials
Waivers may also be prevalent in case a student did not pass a portion of the test or has a special circumstance. These will be marked with corresponding letters on the Michigan Commercial Driver’s License.
CDL Tests in Michigan
Now all that’s left between you and the open road is your CDL exam. One little test and you’ll be heading down the open road towards a new and exciting career. You’ve spent hours studying and even more time behind the wheel, and now it’s time to show off what you’ve learned. Below we’ve given you a preview of what you can expect during your Michigan Commercial Driver’s License test. Both the knowledge portion and the skills tests are described.
CDL Knowledge Tests in Michigan
The knowledge portion of the Michigan CDL test consists of 50 questions that cover subjects like safety, pre-trip inspection, driving techniques, and road signs. To pass this portion a Michigan resident must achieve at least an 80% on the exam. Fortunately, we have a practice exam on our site that you can take advantage of. Our test offers 50 questions that will help you prepare for your upcoming CDL exam.
CDL Skills Test in Michigan
The skills test for your Michigan CDL license is designed to make sure that you can display all the necessary skills to become a successful driver. The test will be broken down into three portions. The pre-inspection portion will ensure that you’re able to properly assess your vehicle before taking it on the road. The next portion will cover the operating techniques and identification of all aspects of the vehicle. Finally, you will need to perform various maneuvers like turning, backing up, and merging lanes that will be a common occurrence on the road. Once you complete the skills test you are officially a licensed driver in Michigan.
Job Outlook in Michigan
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, trucking jobs in the United States are expected to rise 5% by the year 2024. Right below the projected growth rate of 7% for all occupations, it’s yet another sign that points towards an industry that’s trending upward. It’s time to hit the road and pursue a growing job as a CDL driver in Michigan.
Michigan Truck Driver Salary
The average driver in Michigan makes about $43,010 per year. This is just below the national average of $43,590. The investment you put into your CDL license education will surely be worth it when you land a trucking job that offers a stellar wage.