Commercial Driver’s License Requirements

While each state is responsible for issuing commercial driver’s licenses within the state, the rules for obtaining the license are regulated by the federal government.

Here are the general requirements for obtaining a CDL:

• High school diploma or GED
• A clean driving record
• Possess a regular driver’s license for at least 1 year
• At least 18 years old
• Pass a 10-year background check
• Pass TSA screening
• Pass a medical examination
• Pass routine drug screenings
• Pass a written exam
• Pass a driving test

Additional Requirements

In addition to obtaining a commercial driver’s license, you may also need to meet other requirements before you can begin work as a certified heavy equipment operator.

Various states, cities, counties and even individual companies may have experience requirements and other certification rules they impose on heavy equipment operators.

Depending on your circumstances and the type of heavy equipment you’d like to operate, there are a few ways you can gain the experience needed to become a fully certified operator. 

Here are the most common ways to gain experience as an operator:

On-The-Job Training

The most common way to gain experience and prepare yourself for a career as a heavy equipment operator is through on-the-job training.

If you’re just getting started in construction, you may begin by applying for jobs at construction firms you’d like to work for. While your first role at the company may not be as a heavy equipment operator, the idea is to work your way up in the company and gradually gain experience as you go.

Many companies prefer to hire from within, and construction firms can offer you the training and experience to work as a heavy equipment operator. Although this route is not the fastest, it’s an easy path to begin on and doesn’t require any investment.

Training Schools

If you’re eager to begin operating heavy equipment right away, then you may want to consider a training school.

Training schools offer programs that last anywhere from a few weeks to a year and teach operators the basics of operating heavy equipment. At the conclusion of your training program, you’ll be provided with a certificate that denotes you’re ready to begin work as a heavy equipment operator.

Although this is the most straightforward way to approach becoming a heavy equipment operator, it also presents a few drawbacks. For starters, training schools can be expensive. Plus, finding a job at the end of your program isn’t always guaranteed. In addition, training schools do not offer the same networking opportunities you’d have available while working for a company or in a union.

Apprenticeships

If you want the structured guidance of a training school, but prefer on-the-job learning, you may want to consider an apprenticeship.

Apprenticeships are programs sponsored by local labor unions that place promising applicants in jobs where they can learn a new trade. In many states and localities, these programs are free to the applicant.

The great thing about beginning your career as an apprentice in a union is that you’ll be paid while you’re learning on the job. In addition, unions are a great place to network and find career opportunities, making apprenticeships a great starting point for a career as a heavy equipment operator.