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Commercial Driver’s License (CDL)
Transitioning service members and military veterans discharged within the past 12 months of service and who are looking to obtain a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) may qualify for one of two waivers under the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). This pathway waives certain testing based on training and experience gained while in the service. For detailed information regarding Kentucky’s application process, visit the Kentucky Department of Transportation’s CDL Section – Division of Driver Licensing.
Application Process
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Submit a signed and completed waiver application and required documents via email to kytc.cdlwaivers@ky.gov
Note: Waiver application forms have sections for both the applicant and their commanding officer. Both the applicant and commanding officer will need to sign and complete the waiver application form.
Required documents
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Waiver Application (one of the following)
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Skills Test Waiver (TC 94-167) – Available to TSMs who have the appropriate military commercial driving training and experience but not the MOS or occupational rating required for the Even Exchange Waiver. The TSM will still be required to take the written knowledge and vision test.
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Even Exchange Waiver (TC 94-169) – Available to TSMs who have the appropriate military commercial driving training and experience, and were enlisted as one of the approved MOS or occupational ratings
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Occupations that qualify for the Even Exchange Waiver
Branch of Service
Army
Air Force
Marine Corps
Navy
Occupational Classification
88M, Motor Transport Operator
92F, Fueler
14T, Patriot Launching Station Operator
2T1, Vehicle Operator
2F0, Fueler
3E2, Pavement and Construction Equipment Operator
3531, Motor Vehicle Operator
EO, Equipment Operator
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Medical Certificate (from an FMCSA certified medical examiner)
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To search for a nationally certified medical examiner, click HERE
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For medical requirements and FAQs, click HERE
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Copy of DD214 or proof of military status-active/discharged within the last 12 months
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Hot File (wants and warrants check) through the applicant’s local circuit clerk - $3.00 fee
2. Upon receipt and review of the application packet, the CDL Section will contact the applicant’s commanding officer to verify his/her application.
3. If approved, the applicant will receive a confirmation letter which should be presented to the circuit clerk’s office within the applicant’s county of residence. The circuit clerk will issue the physical driver’s license.
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CDL Application Fee – $24.00
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Written Knowledge Exam (if applicable) – Free
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Standard Credentials (non-CDL) – $43.00/8 years
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Standard original CDL add-on – between $18.75 to $45.00 (pro-rated)
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Real ID (non-CDL) – $48.00/8 years
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REAL ID original CDL add-on – between $23.75 to $50.00 (pro-rated)
TSMs wanting to obtain a Real ID or additional CDL classifications and endorsements such as hazardous material, tank, or school bus driver, may be subject to additional requirements, fees, and/or background checks. Click here for more information.
Kentucky Transportation Cabinet
200 Mero Street Frankfort, KY 40622
(502) 564-1257 | drive.ky.gov
For your convenience, you can access the steps below via a PDF
