CDL Requirements in Tennessee

Updated April 30, 2026 · Last source check April 30, 2026

Quick answer

Tennessee says CDL applicants must be at least 18, under-21 drivers are restricted to Tennessee-only operation, and applicants must pass vision, knowledge, and skills tests.

Memphis freight, Nashville distribution, Chattanooga manufacturing, regional Southeast lanes, foodservice, waste, construction, and tanker.

Tennessee CDL steps

Step	What to do	Verification
1	Confirm age, identity, residency/domicile, and base driver-license requirements.	Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security
2	Study the current commercial driver manual and identify the class/endorsements you need.	State manual/source
3	Apply for a commercial learner’s permit and pass required knowledge tests.	State licensing office
4	Complete required ELDT with a registered provider when federal ELDT applies.	FMCSA TPR
5	Practice with a qualified CDL holder and schedule the skills test after applicable waiting periods.	State testing rules
6	Pass vehicle inspection/pre-trip, basic control skills, and road test.	Official skills test process

Training, schools, and jobs in Tennessee

Paid training

Compare company-sponsored training, reimbursement, and contract terms in Tennessee.

Beginner jobs

Research realistic beginner job paths near Memphis and Nashville.

Cost and risk notes

CDL costs in Tennessee vary by school, license class, schedule, financing, and whether you choose company-sponsored training. Ask for the all-in cost in writing, including permit fees, testing fees, medical exam costs, retest fees, financing charges, and refund rules.

If you are considering paid training, compare the repayment obligation against independent school tuition. A lower upfront cost can still be expensive if the contract locks you into a poor-fit job.

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FAQ

How old do I need to be to get a CDL in Tennessee?

18 minimum; under-21 operation is restricted to Tennessee.

Do I need ELDT in Tennessee?

ELDT is a federal requirement for many first-time Class A/Class B CDL applicants, Class B-to-A upgrades, and first-time HazMat, passenger, or school bus endorsements. Verify current status through FMCSA and the state agency.

Where should I verify Tennessee CDL rules?

Start with Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security, then use FMCSA resources for ELDT and Training Provider Registry verification.

Official sources and verification links

Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security
Tennessee says CDL applicants must be at least 18, under-21 drivers are restricted to Tennessee-only operation, and applicants must pass vision, knowledge, and skills tests.
Tennessee commercial driver manual/source
Use the current state manual for knowledge-test preparation and state-specific rules.
FMCSA Entry-Level Driver Training
Federal ELDT baseline and Training Provider Registry overview.
FMCSA Training Provider Registry
Official place to search registered ELDT providers and submit complaints.
FMCSA selecting a training provider
Federal checklist-style guidance for choosing an ELDT provider.