For professional drivers, taking extended time off can be both a necessity and a challenge. Whether you are planning a long vacation, a family event, medical leave, or personal time away from driving, one concern that regularly comes up is how to keep your Commercial Driver License, or CDL, valid while you are not actively working. At Pride Transport, we want to help you protect your license so you can return to the seat with confidence and without unexpected hurdles.

In this blog we will talk about what the regulations say about keeping your CDL valid, what steps you should take before your time off begins, how certain types of leave affect your CDL, and what actions to take when you get ready to come back to work. 

Why Your CDL Status Matters

Your CDL is more than a card you put in your wallet. It is your professional credential that allows you to operate commercial vehicles in interstate and intrastate commerce. Losing or letting your CDL lapse can mean that you are unable to work, face additional testing, or pay fees to reinstate it. For drivers thinking about extended time away, planning ahead is key.

Most states require you to keep your CDL current with periodic renewals, endorsements when needed, and compliance with medical certification requirements. Letting any of these lapse can jeopardize your credential.

Understanding how to keep your CDL valid while taking time off protects your employability and prevents delays in returning to the road.

Frequently Asked Questions From Drivers Taking Time Off

Can My CDL Expire While I Am on Leave?

Yes, your CDL can expire during extended time off if you do not renew it in advance. Check your renewal date and take action before you leave.

Do I Need a Current Medical Card Even If I Am Not Driving?

Yes, you must maintain a current DOT medical card for your CDL to remain valid. Renew your medical certification ahead of time so it does not expire while you are away.

What Happens If My License Expires?

If your CDL expires, you must follow your state’s process for reinstatement. This may include fines, reexamination, and additional fees. Staying ahead of renewal is always easier.

What if I Am Taking Military Leave?

Contact your state licensing agency. Some states offer extensions or accommodations for drivers serving on active duty.

Taking Leave Through Your Employer

If you are employed and planning to take extended time off, communicate with your carrier early. Let your dispatcher or human resources representative know your plans so they can help you understand company policies related to leave and CDL maintenance.

Some employers have specific procedures for handling CDL credentials during leave. For example, they may keep a copy of your medical card on file, remind you of upcoming renewals, or offer assistance with scheduling physical exams.

Being transparent with your employer about your timeline helps them support you and ensures you meet all regulatory requirements before your time off begins.

Military or Personal Leave

Drivers who are taking military leave or other forms of personal leave should pay special attention to how their absence intersects with CDL requirements.

Under federal law, individuals called to active duty military service may have certain protections related to CDL expiration. Some states allow extensions or special accommodations for service members whose licenses expire while they are deployed. Contact your state licensing agency for details about military leave provisions that may apply.

For personal or family leave, there are no special extensions beyond the normal renewal processes. You will need to manage renewals and medical certification as discussed earlier.

Know Your State Requirements for CDL Renewal

CDL renewal periods vary by state. In many states, CDL renewal occurs every five years with some variation in cycles for different license classes or endorsements. Before you begin your extended time off, check when your CDL is due for renewal.

If your license is due to expire during your planned break, take action before you leave. Contact your state Department of Motor Vehicles, Department of Transportation, or equivalent licensing agency to confirm renewal dates and requirements.

Some states allow you to renew your CDL online or by mail, while others may require an in-person visit. If you are eligible for remote renewal, submit your application and any required documentation before leaving town. If an in-person visit is necessary, plan that appointment before your time off begins.

Failing to renew your CDL on time can lead to a lapsed license. A lapsed CDL must be reinstated according to your state rules, which could include testing and fees that are unnecessary if you stay ahead of the renewal process.

Medical Certification and DOT Physicals

Medical certification is a critical part of keeping your CDL valid. Federal regulations require drivers of commercial motor vehicles to hold a current medical examiner’s certificate, also called a DOT medical card. This certificate shows that you meet the health standards necessary to operate safely.

Your DOT medical card must be current at all times, even when you are not actively driving. If your certification expires while you are on extended leave, you will need to undergo a new physical and obtain a fresh certificate before returning to driving.

Plan your physical examination well ahead of your leave start date. Schedule the exam with a certified medical examiner so you have adequate time to receive your card. If your certification will expire during your break, consider renewing in advance.

Remember that some medical conditions or treatments may require additional documentation or more frequent exams. Keeping your medical certification up to date prevents gaps that could delay your reentry into driving duty.

Handling Special Endorsements

Certain endorsements on your CDL, such as hazardous materials (HM), tanker, passenger, or school bus endorsements, may have additional renewal or testing requirements. For example, hazardous materials endorsements require a Transportation Security Administration background check and periodic renewal.

If your extended time off covers the period when an endorsement must be renewed, be sure to address that requirement ahead of time. Check with your state licensing agency about specific requirements for each endorsement you hold to avoid unexpected delays in reinstating those privileges.

Returning to Work After Time Off

As your time away comes to an end, review the status of your CDL and medical certification. Before picking up a truck, confirm that:

1. Your CDL is valid and has not expired.
2. Your medical card is current and on file with your employer if required.
3. All endorsements you need are active and compliant.

If any documentation has lapsed, take care of it promptly, even if that means making an appointment for a DOT physical or visiting your state licensing office.

Once everything is in order, let your Pride Transport representative know you are ready to return to driving. We want your transition back to work to be smooth and stress free.

Stay Prepared, Stay Licensed

Keeping your CDL valid while taking extended time off is mainly about planning and staying informed. At Pride Transport we encourage you to check your renewal dates, schedule your medical certification, and stay in touch with your employer. Doing so protects your professional credentials and makes your return to the road easier.

Your career as a professional driver is important. Proper planning lets you enjoy your time off and come back ready to roll.

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 and driver benefits here.