How to Renew a Commercial Drivers License in Oklahoma
Drivers must complete the steps for CDL renewal in Oklahoma before their credentials expire. This process differs from standard driver license renewals, as the commercial license permits drivers to operate a bevy of large or heavy vehicles. Those who hold commercial driver’s licenses, or CDLs, may also have additional endorsements on their credentials, allowing them to drive specific types of vehicles and tow loads. As such, CDL renewal requirements differ, depending on the type of license a driver holds and the amount (if any) of endorsements attached to the license.
Drivers must renew commercial drivers license documents in Oklahoma to maintain active credentials. The renewal process ensures all motorists are up-to-date on the latest driving procedures and laws. To renew a CDL in Oklahoma, all motorists must take vision exams. Likewise, some drivers may need to complete additional knowledge exams and medical evaluations to renew their credentials. The specific number and type of exams needed depends on the type and number of endorsements added to their CDLs. Before receiving a CDL, drivers must possess the state’s commercial learner’s permit. The CDL permit renewal process differs from the CDL renewal process. All renewal fees, documents and expiration dates vary, depending on the type of credential a driver holds, which also varies between states. For more information about the renewal process in Oklahoma, including testing requirements, forms and fees, continue reading the topics below.
When to Renew Your CDL License in Oklahoma
In Oklahoma, a commercial drivers license is valid for a period of five years. CDLs expire on the last day of the month of expiration. Oklahoma does not have a CDL expiration grace period; those who allow their credentials to expire are subject to retaking the knowledge, vision and road tests.
The CDL renewal process in Oklahoma is regulated by the Department of Public Safety (DPS) throughout the state. It is important to begin this process well before the date of expiration. Since the state does not allow online or mailed renewals, drivers must prepare to appear in person.
The appointment requirement may result in a waiting period, so it is recommended that drivers begin their renewal procedures several months in advance.
CDL Renewal Testing Requirements in Oklahoma
If you are wondering, “What do you need to renew your CDL license?” there is a handful of requirements that you must meet. First, all motorists renewing their CDLs must meet the vision conditions.
The DPS will conduct an eye exam to ensure all drivers have at least 20/40 correctable vision in each eye, as well as both, combined. Drivers who wear glasses or contacts must bring them to their appointments.
Drivers who renew their CDLs before expiration must take the written tests, but are not generally required to retake their road skills tests. However, those who currently hold – or plan to add – a hazardous material endorsement to their credentials must also take the hazardous material written test each time they renew.
What do you need to renew your CDL in Oklahoma?
The Oklahoma CDL renewal requirements are specific to the state. All motorists must verify the requirements in their state of residence to ensure they are following their state’s laws. All drivers must provide a valid Class D driver’s license when renewing a CDL. Furthermore, U.S. citizens who are renewing a CDL in Oklahoma must submit one of the following forms of identification:
- A current U.S. passport
- An official, certified U.S. birth certificate
- A Consular Report of Birth Abroad
- A Certificate of Naturalization
- A Certificate of Citizenship
U.S. permanent residents undergoing a CDL license renewal must provide a valid, unexpired Permanent Resident card, issued by United State Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) or Immigration and Naturalization Services (INS).
Additionally, drivers must submit one document that proves they reside in the state of Oklahoma. These may include a/an:
- Copy of a recent federal or Oklahoma income tax return.
- Current deed, mortgage, monthly mortgage statement or a residential lease.
- Current homeowner’s or renter’s insurance policy or statement.
- Property tax bill or receipt dated within the last 12 months.
- Utility bill from an electric, telephone (home or cell), water, sewer, cable, satellite, heating oil or propane provider, issued within the last 60 days.
- Valid concealed weapons permit.
- Certified copy of court order (must contain the full name, address, and date of birth of the applicant).
- Oklahoma car title or vehicle registration.
- W-2 wage or 1099 tax form from the current year.
CDL Renewal Process in Oklahoma
In order to renew commercial drivers license documents in Oklahoma, drivers must appear in person, at any testing facility. CDL license holders may not renew online or by mail; this option is limited to standard driver’s licenses, only. However, drivers may schedule their renewal appointments using the online tool.
It is recommended that drivers begin the process to renew CDL credentials at least 30 days prior to their expiration dates. Appointment slots may fill up quickly; drivers may renew several months in advance of the expiration date. Furthermore, drivers with hazardous material endorsements must complete a background check, which may also delay the renewal process.
Oklahoma CDL Permit Renewal Requirements
Drivers may complete a CDL permit renewal if they so choose. Before receiving a CDL, motorists must apply for a commercial learners permit. They must hold this permit for at least 14 days before applying for the CDL license or taking the road test.
How long is a CDL permit good for in Oklahoma? A CDL permit in Oklahoma is valid for a period of six months. During this time, drivers have restrictions on operational activities. For example, they may only drive on public roads, and must drive while accompanied by a CDL holder.
“Can I renew my CDL permit after it expires?” is another frequently asked question. Motorists may renew their CDL permits one time after the CDL permit expiration date passes, which extends the validity for another six months. However, any driver who has already started the skills test process may not renew his or her permit.
If he or she fails the test, he or she must obtain another permit, and start the entire skills test process again.
Hazardous Material Endorsement CDL Renewal Requirements in Oklahoma
The CDL license renewal process for drivers who possess hazardous materials endorsements differs slightly. The hazmat endorsement allows motorists to operate vehicles carrying various types of hazardous materials. Drivers who hold this endorsement must take the test and complete a TSA background check each time they renew their commercial licenses.
CDL Renewal Fees in Oklahoma
The Oklahoma CDL renewal cost varies, depending on the license class, and whether the driver holds any endorsements. Currently, the CDL renewal price list associated with this service includes the below:
- Class A CDL: $56.50
- With hazmat endorsement: $81.50
- Class B CDL: $56.50
- With hazmat endorsement: $71.50
- Class C CDL: $46.50
- With hazmat endorsement: $61.50
Oklahoma CDL Renewal Forms
Note: DMV forms change regularly. The forms provided above are current based on the date of writing.
Sources
- Renew an Oklahoma Commercial Driver’s License from OK.gov/dps
- DPS Online Scheduling System from OK.gov/dps
- Acceptable Residency List from OK.gov/dps
- Digital Driver License Classes & Fees from OK.gov/dps