Ascertain which class of CDL you require. Apply for a Class A CDL if you intend to operate a combination of vehicles, with one vehicle weighing more than 26,000 pounds and at least one trailer weighing 10,000 pounds or more. Apply for a Class B license if you plan to drive a single vehicle weighing 26,000 pounds or more or a combination of vehicles, with one vehicle weighing more than 26,000 pounds but none of its trailers weighing more than 10,000 pounds. Apply for a Class C license if you want to drive any combination of vehicles that require hazardous materials placards or are designed to carry more than 15 passengers (including the driver).
Search for your most convenient Motor Vehicle Division office in Albuquerque. There are five MVD offices in the city. Inform the MVD that you are applying for a specific class of CDL, and take the basic knowledge and eyesight tests. Bring your supporting documentation, including your Social Security card, proof of residence, regular driver's license and insurance documentation for the commercial motor vehicle that you will use for your CDL training. Receive your commercial driver's instruction permit, which is valid for six months and allows you to operate the specific class of CMV only when accompanied in the cab by a driver who has held a regular driver's license for five years and the relvant class of CDL for two years.
Locate a truck driving school. Albuquerque has three truck driving schools, and there are four other centers for CDL training elsewhere in New Mexico. Ask the school what is included in your training. For example, some schools oversee CDL examinations themselves, which means you can pay one flat fee and receive all training and tests without having to organize your own examinations.
Review the New Mexico state CDL manual and training documents for the practical elements of the CDL examination. Request a free hard copy of the manual from your MVD office. Read every section of the manual; it contains all of the information you will need for both the written and practical examinations.
Take and pass the written and practical CDL examinations. A grade of 80 percent is required in all elements of testing in order to successfully pass the exams. Finish the written examination first, then complete the pre-trip inspection of the CMV. Identify the mechanical and safety features of your vehicle to pass this test. Continue with the off-road maneuvers test, in which you have 10 minutes to complete each maneuver. Complete testing by taking the on-road traffic test, in which an examiner will sit in the cab beside you and assess your performance.You will receive an endorsed and sealed examination form when you successfully complete all testing.
Take your endorsed and sealed examination forms to your local MVD office to pay for and collect your CDL. As of April 2011, a four-year CDL costs $18, and an eight-year license costs $34.
