Visit a Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) office in your state and inform them that you wish to apply for a commercial driver's instruction permit (CDIP). Provide the relevant documents, which normally include your regular driver's license, insurance documents for the Class A truck, Social Security card, proof of residence and two forms of photo identification. Pay the relevant fees and collect your permit, which is typically valid for a maximum of six months.
Find a convenient truck driving school. Consider factors such as price, credentials and program options. Many truck driving schools administer their own CDL examinations, so you can pay one fee and receive all of your training, undergo your examinations and have the school deal with the paperwork.
Supplement your practical on-road training with study of your state CDL manual. CDL manuals are available online in most states, but some states require you to collect a hard copy from the DMV office. Ask your school if they have a copy of the manual. Study every section of the manual, paying particular attention to sections relating to general truck driving and Class A truck driving.
Complete Class A CDL written practice tests, which are available on the Internet and from your truck driving school. Answer all the questions on tests before marking your own papers -- this allows you to observe any mistakes you made when completing the test and identify the areas you need to review prior to taking your CDL exams.
Apply to take your Class A CDL examinations either by asking your truck driving school to make arrangements or visiting the DMV office in person. Pay the relevant fees and note down the times and dates of all of your assessments.
Take the Class A CDL examinations. These are divided into three parts, starting with a multiple choice examination. Fill in every answer on the paper, as you are not penalized for incorrect answers. Progress to the off-road maneuvers test, where your ability to perform basic moves will be assessed by an examiner sitting alongside you in the cab of a Class A truck. Advance to the road test, where you will once again be joined by the examiner in the cab as you are assessed on your driving capability in real-life road situations.
Receive a signed and sealed examination form upon successful completion of your exams. Return to the DMV office, provide them with the examination forms, pay for and receive your new Class A CDL.
