Tennessee follows the standard 14-day federal CLP hold and offers a distinctive skills-test waiver for qualifying military service members. Here's the accurate, complete process.
Get your DOT physical and Medical Examiner's Certificate
Completed by an FMCSA-certified examiner. First-time applicants' certificate must not expire within 60 days of submission.
2
Study the Tennessee Commercial Driver License Manual and pass your written knowledge tests
Taken at a TDOSHS Driver Services Center; must pass General Knowledge before adding endorsement tests.
3
Receive your CLP — valid 365 days (12 months)
One of the longer CLP validity periods among the states.
4
Hold the CLP for at least 14 days before the skills test
The standard federal minimum waiting period.
5
Complete ELDT, if required for your situation
Required for first-time applicants, per the federal February 7, 2022 standard.
6
Schedule and pass your skills test
By phone (615-502-4179, 8am–4:30pm M-F) or email (DI.CDL.CSTIMS@tn.gov), using your own registered, insured vehicle.
The 14-Day CLP Rule
Tennessee requires the standard federal minimum of 14 days between CLP issuance and your skills test. This is confirmed across multiple sources and matches the federal baseline most states follow.
Highways for Heroes
Tennessee's Highways for Heroes program can waive the skills test for qualifying military service members with relevant prior vehicle experience. Knowledge tests, including the Combination Vehicles test where applicable, are still required regardless of this waiver.
Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT)
ELDT applies to first-time CDL applicants and first-time endorsement applicants. Tennessee follows the federal February 7, 2022 ELDT standard. Training must be completed through a provider listed on the FMCSA Training Provider Registry.
Testing Language
Tennessee CDL knowledge tests are given in English only, with no interpreters or exceptions. This is a standing policy that hasn't recently changed, worth planning for ahead of your test appointment.
Practice for Your Knowledge Tests Free
500 real practice questions across all 3 Tennessee CDL modules.