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U.S. Department of Transportation U.S. Department of Transportation Icon United States Department of Transportation United States Department of Transportation

Military Skills Test Waiver Program

Overview

The program allows drivers with two years' experience safely operating heavy military vehicles to obtain a commercial driver's license (CDL) without taking the driving test (skills test). This program is available in every state. To date, more than 40,000 service members and veterans have taken advantage of this waiver program.

Military personnel can use the skills test waiver if currently licensed and are or were employed within the past year (12 months) in a military position requiring the operation of a military motor vehicle equivalent to a commercial motor vehicle.

Application

Once completed, submit it along with a standard CDL application to the State Driver's License Agency where you are applying. 

Click Here for the Military Skills Test Waiver Application

About this Form

This document addresses all of the issues captured in the new regulation including which violations can deny the waiver; identifying the specific type(s) of vehicle which the service member was licensed to drive; and, an endorsement by the service member's commanding officer of the safe driving record.

DOT is committed to ensuring that information is available in appropriate alternative formats to meet the requirements of persons who have a disability. If you require an alternative version of files provided on this page, please contact francisco.soto@dot.gov.
Last updated: Tuesday, June 4, 2024