At Pride Transport, we know that keeping your commercial driver’s license (CDL) up to date is just as important as following hours-of-service rules or doing a proper pre-trip inspection. But life happens. Maybe paperwork slipped through the cracks, or a renewal notice didn’t arrive on time. Now you’re facing a big question: If your CDL expires, do you have to take the test again to get back on the road?

In many cases, no, not if you act quickly. But if too much time passes, some states will require you to retake the written or skills tests, and others may even start you over from the beginning.

In this post, we’ll break down what happens when a CDL expires, what the potential consequences are, and how to avoid needing to retest or start over entirely.

Why Does a CDL Expire?

Every CDL issued in the United States comes with an expiration date. Depending on the state, your CDL may be valid for anywhere from 5 to 8 years. Some states tie CDL expiration to your medical certification cycle, while others set a firm expiration regardless of your DOT physical.

CDLs expire for the same reason other licenses do: to ensure drivers are still medically qualified, properly trained, and operating within current safety regulations. However, unlike a regular driver’s license, letting a CDL expire can result in much bigger consequences, including the possibility of retesting.

What Happens If Your CDL Expires?

Once your CDL expires, you are no longer legally allowed to operate a commercial motor vehicle. Driving with an expired CDL is a violation of both state and federal regulations, and the penalties can include:

• Fines and citations
• Suspension of driving privileges
• Increased insurance rates
• Job loss or removal from dispatch

You may also risk losing important endorsements, such as HAZMAT or passenger transport, which often have stricter renewal policies.

Do You Have to Retake the Test?

Whether or not you have to retake your CDL knowledge or skills tests after expiration depends on how long your license has been expired and the laws in your state.

Here’s how it typically breaks down:

CDL Expired Less Than One Year

In most states, if your CDL has been expired for less than 12 months, you can renew it without retaking the written or driving tests. You will still need to provide current medical certification, pay renewal fees, and possibly present updated identification documents.

However, even within that 12-month window, you are not allowed to drive until the CDL is officially renewed.

CDL Expired More Than One Year

If your license has been expired for more than a year, many states will require you to retake the written knowledge test, and in some cases, the skills (road) test as well. You may also be required to apply for a new Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) before testing.

Some states draw the line at 6 months, while others allow up to 2 years before retesting is required. The only way to know for sure is to check with your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles or licensing authority.

CDL Expired for Several Years

If your license has been expired for more than 2 or 3 years, some states treat it as if you never had a CDL. You may have to start from scratch, including:

• Applying for a CLP
• Retaking all written tests
• Completing Entry-Level Driver Training (if required)
• Passing the full road skills test

This is a time-consuming process that can take weeks or months, depending on appointment availability and state-specific requirements.

Special Considerations: Endorsements and Medical Certification

When renewing an expired CDL, your endorsements and medical status also come into play.

• HAZMAT Endorsements: If you hold a HAZMAT endorsement, you may be required to retake the written HAZMAT test and complete a new TSA security threat assessment.
• Passenger or School Bus Endorsements: You may need to reverify qualifications or pass additional skills testing.
• Medical Certification: A valid DOT medical card is required to renew a CDL in most states. If your medical certification is expired, the state may have already downgraded your CDL to a non-commercial class.

Renewing without a valid medical card can delay the process or lead to additional complications.

Is There a Grace Period?

Some states offer a paperwork grace period for CDL renewal. That means you may be able to renew shortly after expiration without penalties or retesting. However, it’s important to note that this does not allow you to drive during the expired period.

Even one day past your expiration date, you are considered out of compliance and cannot legally operate a commercial vehicle until your license is officially renewed.

How to Prevent CDL Expiration

At Pride Transport, we encourage drivers to treat CDL renewals with the same urgency as vehicle inspections or logbook compliance. Here’s how you can stay ahead of the curve:

• Know your expiration date. Write it down, put it in your calendar, and set multiple reminders.
• Renew early. Many states allow you to begin the renewal process up to 6 months before the expiration date.
• Keep your medical card current. Don’t wait until the last minute. If your physical is coming due, get it done with time to spare.
• Check your endorsements. HAZMAT, passenger, and other endorsements often come with additional requirements that may delay your renewal if not addressed early.
• Review your state’s DMV website. Rules vary, and it’s best to know your specific obligations ahead of time.

What to Do If Your CDL Is Already Expired

If your license has already expired, here’s what you should do immediately:

1. Stop driving. Do not operate a commercial motor vehicle until your CDL is valid again.
2. Contact your state DMV. Visit their website or call for information on your specific renewal requirements.
3. Prepare your documents. Gather your expired CDL, proof of identity, medical certificate, and any additional forms.
4. Schedule an appointment. In some states, walk-ins are not allowed for CDL services.
5. Notify your employer. Let your fleet manager or safety department know what’s happening. At Pride, we can support you through the process, but you need to be transparent and proactive.

Whether or not you’ll need to take the CDL test again after your license expires comes down to how long it has been expired and what your state requires. In most cases, if you renew quickly, you can avoid the hassle of retesting. But if you wait too long, you could face a much more difficult path back to the driver’s seat.

The best way to avoid problems is simple: stay ahead of your expiration date. As a professional driver, your CDL is your livelihood. Don’t leave it to chance.If you’ve let your CDL expire or you’re close to your renewal date, act now. Check your state’s requirements and get the process started before your window closes.

For more tips on staying compliant and protecting your CDL, check out our blog post on What Disqualifies You From Getting or Keeping a CDL. It’s a great resource to stay informed and in control of your career.

Ready to Drive With a Carrier That Supports Your Success?

Pride Transport puts drivers first. We help you stay compliant, stay safe, and stay earning. If you’re a driver with a valid CDL and a strong work ethic, we’d love to talk. Check out our open positions to apply today!