Last verified: September 18, 2026
Michigan at a glance
This Michigan CDL guide brings together the commercial licensing steps that are easy to miss: eligibility, learner-permit requirements, training or testing, endorsements, fees, and renewal.
- 18 for qualifying intrastate CDL driving; 21 for interstate commercial driving.
- Initial cost: CDL issuance fee: $25.
- Validity: 4 years
- In Michigan, CDL testing can include the knowledge tests required for the class and endorsements plus the three-part skills test: pre-trip vehicle inspection, basic control and road driving. First-time Class A or B applicants, Class B-to-A upgrades, and first-time P, S or H endorsement applicants may need ELDT before theβ¦
CDL Eligibility
A Michigan CDL applicant must meet federal commercial-driver standards plus state requirements. Drivers generally must be at least 18 for qualifying intrastate operation and 21 for interstate operation. Eligibility can also depend on the CDL class, endorsements, medical qualification, driving history, residency/domicile, and federal disqualifications.
Costs, timing and validity
18 for qualifying intrastate CDL driving; 21 for interstate commercial driving.
CDL issuance fee: $25.
CDL renewal fee: $25.
4 years
Documents and information to prepare
Use the official checklist linked on this page as the final authority. The items below describe the information this state commonly expects for this credential.
Typical Michigan CDL applications require identity/residency documents, an acceptable driving record, the CLP, and medical/self-certification documentation when applicable. Endorsements can add requirements such as hazardous-materials screening. Use Michigan Department of State's current CDL document checklist for the exact applicant category.
How to apply
Start with Michigan Department of State's CDL program.
Obtain the commercial learner's permit (CLP), complete the required knowledge tests, complete applicable FMCSA Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT), satisfy medical/self-certification and identity requirements, hold the CLP for at least 14 days before the CDL skills test unless a documented exception applies, and complete the skills test.
Then complete Michigan's issuance and endorsement steps.
Federal FMCSA requirements apply alongside the state licensing process.
CDL Testing, Training & Endorsements
In Michigan, CDL testing can include the knowledge tests required for the class and endorsements plus the three-part skills test: pre-trip vehicle inspection, basic control and road driving. First-time Class A or B applicants, Class B-to-A upgrades, and first-time P, S or H endorsement applicants may need ELDT before the applicable test. FMCSA requires the CLP to be held for at least 14 days before the skills test under the standard pathway.
Renewal and ongoing requirements
The CDL term is 4 years. The renewal fee is $25. CDL holders must also maintain any required medical/self-certification status for their operating category; medical certification can expire before the CDL itself. Renew through Michigan Department of State before expiration and confirm the current medical and endorsement rules.
Processing time
CDL processing in Michigan depends on CLP issuance, training completion, appointment availability, testing, medical/document verification, and license production. Applicants who need training or endorsements should allow additional time because the steps must be completed in sequence.
Quick Answers
What is the first step?
Start with Michigan Department of State's CDL program. Obtain the commercial learner's permit (CLP), complete the required knowledge tests, complete applicable FMCSA Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT), satisfy medical/self-certification and identity requirements, hold the CLP for at least 14 days before the CDL skills test unless a documented exception applies, and complete the skills test. Then complete Michigan's issuance and endorsement steps. Federal FMCSA requirements apply alongside the state licensing process.
What determines CDL eligibility?
A Michigan CDL applicant must meet federal commercial-driver standards plus state requirements. Drivers generally must be at least 18 for qualifying intrastate operation and 21 for interstate operation. Eligibility can also depend on the CDL class, endorsements, medical qualification, driving history, residency/domicile, and federal disqualifications.
What testing or training is involved?
In Michigan, CDL testing can include the knowledge tests required for the class and endorsements plus the three-part skills test: pre-trip vehicle inspection, basic control and road driving. First-time Class A or B applicants, Class B-to-A upgrades, and first-time P, S or H endorsement applicants may need ELDT before the applicable test. FMCSA requires the CLP to be held for at least 14 days before the skills test under the standard pathway.
How often is the CDL renewed?
The CDL term is 4 years. The renewal fee is $25. CDL holders must also maintain any required medical/self-certification status for their operating category; medical certification can expire before the CDL itself. Renew through Michigan Department of State before expiration and confirm the current medical and endorsement rules.