CDL License Requirements in Mississippi
You must be at least 18 years old, pass a current physical examination, and have a valid driver’s license in order to obtain a Mississippi CDL license. 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. Once these requirements are satisfied, it’s time to find the right CDL School in Mississippi.
Find CDL Training Schools in Mississippi
There are tons of CDL training schools in Mississippi to choose from. 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. Mississippi is waiting to be traveled, so don’t delay!
CDL Training Costs in Mississippi
Currently, the average tuition cost of a Mississippi CDL training school is around $4,700. While many are worried about finding the finances to pay for Mississippi CDL School, there are a few options you might want to consider. Applying for financial aid through FAFSA is a great first step if you want to explore your federal student aid options, in which the government subsidizes some of the loan cost. A federal Pell Grant is 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. You may also want to look into employers who will pay for schooling with the expectation that you’ll join them on the road. Don’t let money stop you from pursuing a rewarding career as a Mississippi trucker.
CDL Prep in Mississippi
After you complete your Mississippi CDL requirement training, there are still a few things to ensure that you are fully prepared for your Mississippi CDL exam. If you want to get a feel of what the test will be like, feel free to take our practice test as many times as you need to. You’ll also want to that drive something you are familiar with driving so you feel as comfortable as possible when taking your test. You can never study too much, so make sure you know your vehicle inside and out as well as how to drive it properly. You’re only a few steps away from hitting the road.
Mississippi CDL Endorsement & Waivers
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) is the regulatory body that oversees CDL endorsements throughout the United States including Mississippi. The state's endorsements include:
- Air Brakes
- Combination Vehicles
- Tankers
- Doubles/Triples
- Hazardous Materials
- Passenger Transport
Other demographics of professional drivers (emergency services, military, agriculture, etc.) rely on professional training from industry-specific service providers and usually do not need a CDL license. However, there are many restrictions that should also be noted, so be sure that you’re not breaking any rules when getting your CDL.
CDL Tests in Mississippi
Below is an overview of what you can expect when taking your CDL requirements in Mississippi. You must pass both a written test as well as an on-the-road test before you can become a licensed driver in Mississippi.
CDL Knowledge Tests in Mississippi
The knowledge portion of the Mississippi CDL test consists of 50 questions that cover subjects like safety, pre-trip inspection, driving techniques, and road signs. To pass this portion, you must get at least 80% on the exam. If you want to get a feel for how the exam will be formatted and what kind of questions to expect, our test offers 50 questions that will help you prepare for your upcoming Mississippi CDL exam. After you complete this portion of the test, you will then need to pass the skills portion.
CDL Skills Test in Mississippi
The skills portion of the test will allow you to showcase your knowledge in a hands-on way. There will be three different aspects that the test will cover. Initially, you will be asked to conduct an inspection of your rig so you can identify any issues that may arise before you hit the road. Next, you will hit the road with your vehicle to make sure that you can properly identify road signs and the parts on your interior. Finally, you will be asked to maneuver the vehicle by turning, merging, and backing up. Once you complete this test, your CDL is within reach.
Job Outlook in Mississippi
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, trucking jobs in the United States are expected to rise 5% by the year 2024. Just below the expected growth rate of 7% for all occupations, it’s definitely a good sign about the health and projection of the trucking industry. Mississippi is ready to be explored and is offering an abundance of opportunity for future truckers. Become a Mississippi truck driver today!
Mississippi Truck Driver Salary
The average driver in Mississippi makes about $40,440 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.