I read most of the california CDL handbook, and it never seemed to mention a test for the permit. It just said there was a written test, etc. Is the written test considered the permit test, and if this is the case, that means I have to decide If I want to be certified for doubles, hazards, etc before I even get my permit?

If it's a seperate thing for some reason, what is on the permit test? Thanks

You will have to take a written to get the permit. You can't just go up and take a CDL test. You have to do a actual drivers test in a truck along with some other hoops to jump through. You can take the endosement tests anytime. Hazmat you have to pass a background/ finger print check.

__________________
My childhood dream of becoming a truck driver turned into a nightmare!

do you have a plan after getting permit? what is it if you don't mind?

Since the requirements for a CDL are national now ( hope I am right about this, please let me know if I am wrong) you have to pass an eye exam and a written test to get a CDL

Here in Texas you have to take an exam on General Knowledge (of Trucks), Combination Vehicles, Air Brakes, Texas Traffic Law, and Pre Trip Inspection.

If you want ednorsements for Tanker, Doubles, Hazmat also require at least a written exam, You do not have to take them to get the basic permit but if you are going to need them get them now, especially the Hazmat, it can take up to 6 weeks due the fingerprinting, FBI and TSA background checks.

When I took my exam last week for my permit I took them all except doubles and passenger (passed them all too)

Good luck and hope it helps

OTRDOC

Ps. I used some online sites that let you take practice tests that helped alot, they where cheap $25, I wont mention names here because of the advertising policy but you can message me for them

I have nothing set in stone, but I was considering applying to be trained by and then work for schneider.

I'll try to articulate my question better. Do you:

1. take a *special* permit test.
2. learn to drive.
3. take another written test.
4. Take tests involving truck present.

Or is it:
1. Take written test, which is also permit test
2. learn to drive
3. Take tests involving a truck present.

If the permit test is seperate from the written test explained in CDL then I can decide if I want to pull doubles, etc after the test. If written is same it looks like I have to decide before I get any actual experience to find out.

Edit: I suppose OTRDOC cleared it up for me. Thanks.

You could have saved the 25 bucks. The State CDL manual (free) has everything you need to pass the test.

__________________
My childhood dream of becoming a truck driver turned into a nightmare!

I know I could of saved the $25 but I just learn better by taking test after test after test, and about 30% of the questions where almost word for word on the real one.

I started memorizing all the various length, width, height and weight limits and I started to wonder if that stuff is even going to be on the test? Is everything in this handbook fair game for the tests? I mean, knowing all the size limits and exceptions and new limits isn't really necessary knowledge to store in your head seeing as you can look it up for all the various loads, which I would do even if I memorized all of it just to be on the safe side anyway.

I've read the manual already oceanside, I've made implicit and explicit statements to reading the handbook in just bout every single post here.

My bad arigo was just trying to help out. Here are more specifics from off the DMV website regarding testing.

Also,Schneider wants you to attend their training with permit in hand and the recruiter I spoke with informed me that they will provide the medical evaluation with a certified MD somewhere in your local area including the drug test. Not going to worry about taking the written test until I am ready to go to school, they accept me for sure, and they send me to the doctor.

Otherwise you are free to find a DOT doctor on your own dime and go take the written test/tests at your leisure.

From dmv.ca.gov

You'll need to pass both a written test and an on-road driving skills test to get a California CDL. The material for the written test is gleaned from the California Commercial Driver Handbook, so you'll want to spend some time mastering its contents before heading to the DMV.To obtain a California CDL, you must apply at a DMV office. Before you are approved for a CDL permit (the first phase of the licensing process), you will need to complete the following:
· Fill out an application form (form DL 44) at a DMV office.
· Provide required proof of age and name.
· Provide a thumbprint and have your picture taken.
· Pass a vision test.
· Turn in a medical certificate.
· Pass a traffic laws and road signs test (the written test).
· Have your Social Security number verified.
· Pay the $64 application fee (endorsements are extra).
Once you have completed those tasks, you will need to become properly trained to drive a commercial vehicle. When your training is complete and you're ready to take the wheel in front of an examiner, make an appointment for the driving portion of the test. You may take this test only at certain Commercial Driving Test offices. In order to pass the CDL driving skills test, you will need to do the following:
· Bring the vehicle you'll be tested in. It must be the same class of vehicle you are being licensed for.
· Pass a pretesting vehicle inspection.
· Pass a skills and driving test in that vehicle. Alternatively, you may submit a Certificate of Driving Skill (DL 140) signed by both you and your employer to have this portion of the test waived.
Upon completion of these steps, you will be issued an interim CDL that is valid for 60 days; your regular CDL will be mailed to you.
The California DMV provides more information about [LINK POSTED BY MEMBER] Only Members Can View This Truck Forum Link. .