How to Get a Class A CDL: Permit, Training, and Testing

Earning a Class A CDL involves meeting state eligibility and medical requirements, obtaining a commercial learner’s permit, completing applicable entry-level driver training, and passing the required skills tests. A license and an employer’s hiring qualifications are separate requirements.

Key takeaways

• Use your state licensing agency for the current application and testing process.
• Complete applicable ELDT through a provider on FMCSA’s Training Provider Registry.
• Confirm experience, screening, and other requirements for the specific job.

Starting a CDL-A linehaul career with Sigma Transport, a trusted FedEx TSP partner, begins with one essential credential: the Class A Commercial Driver’s License (CDL-A). Here’s your complete step-by-step roadmap to earning that license—and kickstarting your path to long-haul trucking success.

Step 1: Meet the Basic Requirements

• Age Requirement
  • 18+ to drive intrastate; 21+ for interstate linehaul routes.
• Valid Driver’s License
  Required as your foundation.
• Medical Qualification
  A valid DOT medical certificate from a certified examiner is mandatory.

Step 2: Obtain Your Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP)

• Pass the CDL knowledge test and vision exam.
• Hold your CLP for at least 14 days before testing for your CDL.
• Complete Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) through a provider listed on the FMCSA’s Training Provider Registry (TPR).

Step 3: CDL Training Program

At Sigma Transport, we encourage drivers to get professional training from the right program:

• Attend an Approved Truck Driving School Covered first-time CDL applicants must complete applicable ELDT with a provider listed on FMCSA’s Training Provider Registry. Any separate employer or contracting-network school and experience requirements should be verified for the current opening.
• Classroom & Behind-the-Wheel Instruction
  Training covers regulations, safety, inspections, shifting, backing, coupling, and real-world road driving.

Step 4: Pass the CDL Skills Test

You must pass all three parts:

1. Vehicle Inspection
2. Basic Controls
3. On-Road Driving

Once you pass, your state DMV will issue your CDL-A license.

Step 5: Start Driving with Sigma Transport

With your CDL-A in hand, you’re ready to start your career:

• Drive for a FedEx-approved TSP with consistent linehaul freight.
• Join a company that invests in modern equipment, driver safety, and career growth.

Quick CDL-A Process Overview

Step

Requirement

1

Be 21+ for interstate driving, hold a valid license, and pass DOT physical

2

Secure CLP (written + vision), hold for 14 days

3

Complete ELDT at a

FMCSA-registered training provider; verify separate hiring requirements

4

Pass CDL skills test (inspection, controls, road test)

5

Begin your CDL-A career with Sigma Transport

Why This Matters

At Sigma Transport, we hold ourselves to the highest standards. By completing applicable licensing and training requirements and confirming the employer’s hiring criteria, you’re ensuring your career starts with the skills, credibility, and compliance needed to succeed in linehaul trucking.

Your future in professional truck driving begins here—get your CDL-A and drive with Sigma.

A practical question

Does completing ELDT guarantee a job with Sigma Transport?

No. ELDT is a licensing requirement for covered applicants. Hiring depends on the requirements of the position, current openings, experience, and applicable screening standards.

Related reading

CDL-A Linehaul Jobs at Sigma Transport: What to Know

Level I DOT Inspection: Driver and Vehicle Preparation

Sources and further guidance

FMCSA: how to get a commercial driver’s license

Updated November 2, 2026. Original publication date retained where available.