Training for a CDL can be a rewarding experience. However, many aspiring truckers are left wondering where to start the process. Students can find training programs at New England Tractor Trailer Training School (NETTTS) that help prepare them for the next step. We have a campus in North Andover/Haverhill, Massachusetts, as well as locations in Somers and Bridgeport, Connecticut, and Pawtucket, Rhode Island. Learn more about Massachusetts CDL requirements and the courses offered at NETTTS. Residents of Massachusetts are able to attend our Somers, CT, Pawtucket, RI, and North Andover/Haverhill, MA CDL school locations.
How Much Training Is Required?
To see how long it takes to train for a CDL in Massachusetts, students must first decide what kind of CDL they want. Students can choose from the following CDL programs at NETTTS:
- Class A CDL: This type of license lets drivers operate commercial vehicles with a gross weight of 26,000 or more pounds and a towing capacity of 10,000 or more pounds.
- Class B CDL: This kind of license enables workers to use commercial vehicles with a gross weight of more than 26,000 pounds and a towing capacity of no more than 10,000 pounds.
At NETTTS, we offer different class schedules, allowing students to attend CDL school at a time that works best with their schedules. Students can choose:
- Weekday classes
- Weekend classes
- Morning classes
- Afternoon classes
- Evening classes
NETTTS offers manual CDL training as well as automatic vehicle training. Students work with instructors who are experienced in the trucking and transportation field.
Before taking the road test, students are taught specialized knowledge of the vehicles they wish to operate with a CDL. For Class A CDL license holders, our students generally use day cabs and trailers in the training yard, and long-haul trucks that have been converted to allow more passengers for on-road training. We also have heavy-straight trucks, such as a box truck, for Class B CDL license holders.
Basic Requirements for Earning a Massachusetts CDL
At the start of their training, students will begin to prepare for their commercial learner’s permit (CLP), which includes taking an exam with the state motor vehicle department. The exam fee for a CLP can vary from state to state. Like the CDL test, a CLP requires students to pass an exam.
When applying for a CDL, you should have a valid Massachusetts ID, proof of citizenship, and proof of residency in Massachusetts. For U.S. citizens, proof of citizenship can mean a Social Security Card or birth certificate. For non-U.S. citizens, this can be a Green Card. You also cannot have more than one driver’s license.
While you can get your CDL at age 18, you will be restricted to driving commercially only within Massachusetts state lines. These types of drivers hold licenses with a K restriction. Truckers over the age of 21 can drive loads across state lines. If a driver is making a delivery to a Massachusetts military site, some sites may require that the driver have a REAL ID.
Health and Vision Requirements
Students must complete a Department of Transportation (DOT) medical exam, which is a vision, hearing, and general health exam to demonstrate they can drive safely. This test is regulated by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and can only be completed by FMCSA-licensed medical examiners.
Depending on the type of commercial driving, you may need to meet different medical standards. For example, drivers with a non-excepted interstate (NI) license must meet medical requirements set by the Department of Transportation (DOT). Truckers with a non-excepted intrastate (NA) license must meet qualifications set by the State of Massachusetts.
After passing the medical exam, students receive a certificate of completion valid for up to two (2) years. If a student does not meet the medical requirements for CDL driving in Massachusetts, they can apply for an intrastate medical waiver. For instance, those with diabetes or vision problems may be eligible to receive an exemption. This allows truckers to drive intrastate only and enables them to operate vehicles without needing to pass a medical examination.
Legal Requirements
Alongside completing courses and the necessary testing and paperwork, truckers may also consider adding certain driving endorsements. Endorsements allow drivers to operate specialized vehicles, like school buses. Some licenses may require that you have specific endorsements. For example, Class A CDL drivers must have a combination vehicle endorsement. Other potential endorsements include:
- (H) Hazardous materials: This lets truckers deliver hazardous materials or waste.
- (N) Tank vehicles: This enables workers to carry loads with bulk liquids or gasses.
- (P) Passenger transport: This allows drivers to transport passengers, like in a bus.
- (T) Doubles/triples: This lets drivers to operate loads with double or triple trailers.
- (X) HazMat and tank vehicles: This allows drivers to carry loads in HazMat and tank vehicles.
- (L) Air brakes: This certifies that truckers understand how to operate a vehicle with air brakes.
Students must also apply for self-certification. In Massachusetts, self-certification lets the Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV) know if you will drive across state lines or only in Massachusetts. It also informs RMV that you have a medical certificate to earn a license. Self-certification allows truckers to decide the type of driver they want to become.
Taking the CDL Test
After earning a CLP and completing the necessary training, you’ll be eligible to take the CDL test. Tests are taken with your local DMV/RMV in multiple parts, with a written exam, inspection procedures, and a behind-the-wheel road test. Courses at NETTTS are designed to prepare you to take the CDL licensing exam.
The CDL written test focuses on classifications and restrictions specific to the type of license you want to hold. Students must answer at least 80 percent of the knowledge exam questions correctly. The next portion of the CDL test, the skills test, requires students to perform regular vehicle duties and demonstrate safe driving techniques.
Complete CDL Training With NETTTS
New England Tractor Trailer Training School aims to give students the knowledge, tools, and resources they need from CDL training. What’s more, we have financial aid available for those that qualify, as well as career services support, which assist with job-hunting techniques like resume writing and networking. In addition to Massachusetts, NETTTS provides CDL training in Connecticut and Rhode Island. To learn more about how to earn a Massachusetts CDL or the courses we offer, contact us or request more information today. If you have questions, we welcome calls at 800-333-2888.