A CLP is considered a valid CDL for purposes of behind-the-wheel training on public roads or highways, if all of the following minimum conditions are met:
- The CLP holder is at all times accompanied by the holder of a valid CDL who has the proper CDL group and endorsement(s) necessary to operate the CMV. The CDL holder must at all times be physically present in the front seat of the vehicle next to the CLP holder or, in the case of a passenger vehicle, directly behind or in the first row behind the driver and must have the CLP holder under observation and direct supervision.
- The CLP holder holds a valid driver’s license issued by the same jurisdiction that issued the CLP.
- The CLP holder must have taken and passed a general knowledge test that meets the Federal standards for the commercial motor vehicle that person operates or expects to operate.
- The CLP holder must be 18 years of age or older.
The CLP is valid for up to 1 year. After expiration, the CLP holder is required to retake the general and endorsement knowledge tests.
The issuance of a CLP is a precondition to the initial issuance of a CDL. The issuance of a CLP is also a precondition to the upgrade of a CDL if the upgrade requires a skills test.
The CLP holder is not eligible to take the CDL skills test in the first 14 days after initial issuance of the CLP.
