Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Requirements in Puerto Rico

1. What are the CDL requirements for obtaining a Commercial Driver’s License in Puerto Rico?


In order to obtain a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) in Puerto Rico, applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Be at least 18 years old.

• Have held a valid Puerto Rico driver’s license for at least one year.

• Have passed a written knowledge test, a driving skills test, and a vision test.

• Have no more than one moving violation or no more than two preventable accidents in the past three years (as applicable).

• Provide proof of personal liability insurance, if applicable.

• Pass a physical exam verifying medical fitness for operating a commercial vehicle.

• Provide proof of U.S. residency or citizenship, if applicable.

• Pay applicable fees.

2. How many years of driving experience do I need to obtain a CDL in Puerto Rico?


In Puerto Rico, you must have at least two years of driving experience to obtain a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL).

3. What type of medical certification is required to get a CDL in Puerto Rico?


In Puerto Rico, a driver must obtain a DOT Medical Examiner’s Certificate in order to obtain a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL). The certificate is issued by certified medical providers and is valid for up to two years. The driver must pass a physical exam that includes vision, hearing, and physical examination criteria in order to receive the certificate.

4. Does Puerto Rico use the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) guidelines for CDLs?


Yes, Puerto Rico is subject to the same Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) guidelines for CDLs as the rest of the United States.

5. Are there any special endorsements required to drive certain types of vehicles with a CDL in Puerto Rico?


Yes. In Puerto Rico, certain types of vehicles require commercial endorsement on the CDL. These endorsements include Class B for buses, Class C for vehicles transporting hazardous materials, Class D for double- and triple-trailer combinations, and Class E for tank trucks.

6. How often must CDL holders in Puerto Rico pass a physical examination to maintain their license?


Commercial driver’s license (CDL) holders in Puerto Rico are required to renew their license every four years and must pass a physical examination annually in order to maintain their license.

7. What are the age requirements for obtaining a CDL in Puerto Rico?


In Puerto Rico, drivers must be at least 18 years of age to obtain a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL).

8. Are there any skill exams required to get a CDL in Puerto Rico?


Yes, applicants in Puerto Rico are required to pass a written and skills exam before they can obtain a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL).

9. Does Puerto Rico require drivers to complete any additional training before obtaining a CDL?


No, Puerto Rico does not require drivers to complete any additional training before obtaining a CDL. However, it is highly recommended that drivers complete some additional training in order to increase their knowledge and skills when operating a commercial vehicle.

10. Can I obtain a CDL if I have previous convictions for traffic violations in Puerto Rico?


Yes, you may be able to obtain a CDL if you have previous convictions for traffic violations in Puerto Rico. However, you will need to contact your local DMV office to discuss your specific situation and how the convictions may affect your eligibility.

11. What hours are Commercial Drivers allowed to drive in Puerto Rico?


In Puerto Rico, commercial drivers are subject to the same hours-of-service regulations as drivers in the United States. Drivers are permitted to be on duty for 14 consecutive hours, with a total of 11 hours of consecutive driving time. After that, they must take a 10-hour break before they can get back behind the wheel. Drivers are also limited to no more than 60 hours of on-duty time in 7 days, or 70 hours in 8 days.

12. Are there any restrictions on CDL holders operating certain types of vehicles in Puerto Rico?


Yes, there are restrictions on CDL holders operating certain types of vehicles in Puerto Rico. Some of the restrictions include:

1. Vehicles over 26,000 lbs. Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) require a Class A license.
2. CDL holders are prohibited from operating vehicles designed to transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver (this includes buses).
3. Vehicles equipped with air brakes require a separate air brake endorsement (F) on their license.
4. CDL holders are prohibited from operating tank vehicles unless they also have a Tanker Endorsement (N) on their license.
5. All CDL holders must follow all applicable traffic laws and regulations while operating a vehicle in Puerto Rico, including the Puerto Rico Automobile Insurance Law and the Puerto Rico Traffic Law and Regulations.

13. Do I need to take any additional classes to obtain a CDL in Puerto Rico?


Yes, you will need to complete the additional training required for a CDL in Puerto Rico. This includes a knowledge and skills test, as well as a road test. Additionally, you may need to take a defensive driving course or other safety classes.

14. Does Puerto Rico require drivers to carry proof of insurance when operating commercial vehicles?


Yes, it is required by law for commercial vehicles to carry proof of insurance in Puerto Rico. This proof must include the name of the insurance company, policy number, amount of coverage, and the period of time for which the policy is in effect.

15. Is there an age limit for holding a Commercial Drivers License in Puerto Rico?


Yes, the age limit for obtaining a Commercial Driver’s License in Puerto Rico is 21 years old.

16. Are there any special requirements for drivers transporting hazardous materials with a Commercial Drivers License in Puerto Rico?


Yes. The Puerto Rico Department of Transportation and Public Works requires that drivers transporting hazardous materials must obtain a permit from the Motor Carrier Services Bureau, which can be done by submitting a registry and complying with the Puerto Rico Hazardous Materials Transportation Act. Drivers must also be 21 years of age or older and have a valid Commercial Drivers License (CDL) with the applicable endorsement.

17. Do I need to take a drug test before obtaining a CDL in Puerto Rico?


No, you are not required to take a drug test in order to obtain a CDL in Puerto Rico. However, all CDL holders in Puerto Rico are subject to random drug testing, as required by federal law.

18. Does Puerto Rico require drivers to carry special licenses or endorsements when transporting passengers with a commercial vehicle?


No, Puerto Rico does not require drivers to carry special licenses or endorsements when transporting passengers with a commercial vehicle. Drivers in Puerto Rico must have a valid driver’s license and the appropriate insurance coverage for the vehicle they are operating.

19. How often must Commercial Drivers renew their license in Puerto Rico?


In Puerto Rico, commercial drivers must renew their license every three years.

20. Are there any special restrictions on Commercial Drivers operating at night or during certain times of day in Puerto Rico?


Yes, Commercial Drivers in Puerto Rico are subject to the following restrictions:

– Cannot drive more than 10 hours in a 24-hour period
– Must take a rest break of at least 30 minutes every 8 hours of driving
– Cannot drive between the hours of 11:00 PM and 5:00 AM, unless they are hauling a hazardous material or are delivering fuel or alcoholic beverages
– Must not be on duty for more than 14 hours in a 24-hour period
– Must take at least 10 consecutive hours off duty between each 14 hour duty period
– Cannot be on duty for more than 60 hours in a 7-day period, or 70 hours in an 8-day period