Where do I take the Michigan CDL skills test?

Michigan relies exclusively on approved third-party businesses for skills testing. The Secretary of State does not administer skills tests at its own branch offices.

Can I get a Michigan CLP before completing ELDT?

Yes, this is a distinctive feature of Michigan's process, a CLP may be issued before ELDT is fully completed.

How much does a Michigan CDL cost in state fees?

Around $50 total for the CLP and CDL combined, among the lowest totals in the nation.

How to Get a CDL in Michigan 2026: Full Guide

📅 Updated July 2026 📌 Source: Michigan Secretary of State ⏱ 8 min read

Michigan's process includes a genuinely distinctive feature: skills testing is handled exclusively through approved third-party businesses, not at Secretary of State offices. Here's the accurate, complete process.

Step-by-Step Process

Get your DOT physical and Medical Examiner's Certificate

Must not be more than 2 years old at CLP application; the certified examiner submits it electronically.

Study the Michigan Commercial Driver's License Manual and pass your written knowledge tests

Taken at a Secretary of State office.

Receive your CLP — valid 12 months

Distinctively, Michigan may issue this before ELDT is fully completed.

Hold the CLP for at least 14 days before the skills test

The standard federal minimum waiting period.

Schedule your skills test through an approved third-party business

At least 2 days in advance; bring your own registered, insured vehicle, since Michigan doesn't supply one.

Complete the 3-part skills test

Pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle controls, and on-road driving, all same day, sequential.

Third-Party Skills Testing

Michigan relies exclusively on approved third-party driver testing businesses for CDL skills tests. The Secretary of State does not administer skills tests at its own branch offices at all, a genuinely distinctive administrative structure among the states. Plan ahead to identify the specific approved business serving your area.

CLP Before ELDT

Michigan allows a CLP to be issued before ELDT is fully completed, an unusual sequencing among states. First-time hazmat applicants are the exception: the hazmat portion of ELDT must be completed before the hazmat knowledge test specifically.

Michigan's Low Fees

Michigan's combined CLP and CDL fees total around $50, among the lowest in the nation. Knowledge tests are included in this fee. Each endorsement adds $5.

Practice for Your Knowledge Tests Free

500 real practice questions across all 3 Michigan CDL modules.

Start Michigan CDL Practice Tests Full Cost Breakdown

Frequently Asked Questions

How long must I hold a Michigan CLP before the skills test?

14 days, the standard federal minimum.

Where do I take the skills test?

Through an approved third-party business, not at a Secretary of State office.

Can I get a CLP before completing ELDT?

Yes, except for hazmat, which requires ELDT before the knowledge test.

How much does Michigan charge in state fees?

Around $50 total for CLP and CDL combined.

How long is a Michigan CLP valid?

12 months. The CDL itself is valid for 4 years.

Sources: Michigan Secretary of State. Last verified July 2026.