7 Documents to Prepare
to Get a Driver's License for Your Job
When applying for a job, sometimes the position will require you
to have a valid driver's license. This is usually the case for positions that
involve some form of transportation, or driving vehicles. Depending on the type
of vehicle you'll be driving for work, you may need a specific license in order
to operate that vehicle. If you need to apply for a driver's license in order
to apply for a position, you'll need some paperwork and documentation ready to
beforehand just to get the process going. If your position does not involve any
kind of driving, but your employer is requiring a driver's license to apply,
contact
Traffic Lawyers CNG Law for more information, in many states it
is illegal to specifically require a driver's license if the job does not
involve some form of transportation to perform the basic duties of the job.
When preparing the forms for your application, note that these forms may vary
depending on your individual circumstances.
Never Had A License
If you've never had a license, for example if you're a teen
driver applying for your first license or just never had a need for one until
the position you are applying for, there are four pieces of documentation you
are required to have present when applying for a license. These documents are:
-Social Security Card
-Photo ID (such as a passport)
-Proof of Residency (copy of lease, utility bill, mortgage, any
document verifying your mailing address)
-Proof of Citizenship (passport, birth certificate, etc).
With these documents present, you should be able to start the
process for applying for a standard license. The cost of applying for a new
license can vary from state to state.
Applying for a
Commercial License
Applying for a commercial license is a bit more of an intensive
process than your standard class D license. This is mostly due to the
additional responsibilities commercial drivers have in regards to not only
being able to properly drive a larger vehicle or vehicles with trailers
attached, but also the need to ensure their cargo is properly maintained,
stored, and secured to their vehicle. Before even applying for a commercial
license, you should prepare the following:
-Photo ID:
You should have at least two forms of ID with you, be it a non-commercial
license, passport, or non-driver's license ID card. You will need at least one
form of ID in order to start the process, though some states require a second
form of ID for verification purposes. You should use a passport as one form of
ID as it can be used as verification for other criteria as well, meaning you
have less paperwork to carry with you to the initial application.
-The State CDL Application:
Having the State CDL application with you already filled out
will save you time when applying for your
https://www.rms.nsw.gov.au/roads/licence/driver/. You can simply hand the form
in to the DMV along with your other documents to start the process, and pay the
application fee.
-Proof of State and US Residency:
You'll need to prove you are a resident of the state in which
you are applying for the license, as well as a resident of the United States.
Verifying your state residency usually also verifies US residency as well,
though most states require multiple matching forms of verification, such as utility
bills or other forms that verify your home address. The list of accepted
residency verification documents can be found on your state DMV's website.
-Medical Examiner Report (MER)
A Medical Examiner Report essentially confirms your medical
history and that you do not have any pre-existing conditions that will make you
unfit to drive. While not always required, it is a good idea to keep these
forms up to date just in case any further verification of your health records
is needed.
-Medical Examiner's Certificate
A Medical Examiner's Certificate is proof that you are currently
fit to drive. In order to get a Medical Examiner's Certificate, you'll have to
get a physical done by a physician and have them fill out the form for you.
Unlike the MER, the Medical Examiner's Certificate must be resubmitted every 3
years in order to maintain your CDL.
-Social Security Verification:
You will need to verify your social security number when applying
for a commercial driver's license. Any document
that has your social security number on it will suffice. While the most common
form of identification for this is your social security card, Medicare ID or
Military ID's that list your social security number are accepted as well.
-Proof of Citizenship:
This falls under similar categories as proof of residency. Your
US passport should be more than enough to qualify as proof of citizenship, though
other documents that are accepted include your birth certificate and a resident
card.
What Else to Expect
With all the documentation prepared, you are ready to apply for
your commercial driver's license. There are some other steps you should be ready
for and expect moving forward past the initial application step though.
-Eye Exam:
You will need to pass an eye exam to ensure the quality of your
vision won't put yourself or others in danger. This is also generally standard
practice with non-commercial licenses.
-Knowledge Exam:
The Knowledge Exam covers basic knowledge regarding having a
CDL, such as the rules of having a CDL, how to drive a commercial vehicle
safely, and how to properly secure your cargo. Depending on the type of CDL you
are applying for, these tests may vary in focus, being geared more towards
hazardous material, school bus safety, passenger vehicles, tankers, etc. Know
which kind of knowledge test you'll be taking and be sure to prepare
accordingly.
-Pre-Trip Inspection:
When arriving for the driving exam portion of your CDL
application, your vehicle will undergo a pre-trip inspection. This will ensure
you know how to safely prepare your vehicle and make sure the vehicle is safely
drivable.
-Driving Test:
The final step in getting your CDL is to pass a practical
driving test, ensuring you can properly drive the vehicle in addition to
knowing the safety and driving regulations involved with operating commercial
vehicles.