What is required to obtain a CLP?
- You must be at least 18-years-old if you will be transporting property within state lines or be at least 21-years-old if you will be transporting people, and
- You must have held a driver's license for at least one year.
- When applying for your first CDL (or CLP) in Indiana, you must provide a valid Medical Examination Report (MER) and Medical Examiner’s Certificate (MEC). To maintain a valid CLP or CDL, you must provide a valid MER and MEC prior to the expiration of your current MER and MEC on file with the BMV.
Is a knowledge exam required to obtain a CLP?
You must pass the specific knowledge exam for the vehicle type that you plan to operate:
| Vehicle Type | All commercial vehicles | All school buses | All buses | Vehicle with air brakes | Combination of vehicles | Drivers required to transport hazardous material | Drivers required to transport liquids in bulk | Drivers required to pull double or triple trailers |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Required Exam | General knowledge exam | School bus endorsement exam and passenger transport exam | Passenger transport exam | Air brakes exam | Combination vehicle exam | Hazardous material exam | Tanker exam | Doubles/triples exam |
You may find the material covered in the knowledge examinations in the CDL test booklet.
View the Commercial Driver's License Test Booklet
How long is a CLP valid?
When you pass a knowledge exam, the results are valid for 180 days. You may receive only three CLPs in two years. A CLP is valid for 180 days.
Holders of a valid CLP may operate a commercial motor vehicle only when accompanied by the holder of a valid commercial driver’s license (CDL), who has the proper class and endorsement(s) necessary to operate the commercial motor vehicle.
Still Have Questions?
Send us an email about getting a commercial driver's license learner's permit.
Email Us