Hamilton MVD Office Expands to Offer Commercial Driver's License Testing
The Motor Vehicle Division's (MVD) Hamilton office will start offering Commercial Driver's License (CDL) skills testing beginning September 7, expanding the driver services in Ravalli County. The new service will be held at the Ravalli County Fairgrounds, located at 100 Old Corvallis Road, and aims to address the shortage of truck drivers and increase local employment opportunities.
New CDL Testing Services
CDL Testing Location
- Address: Ravalli County Fairgrounds, 100 Old Corvallis Road, Hamilton
- Start Date: September 7
- Appointments: Schedule now
Hamilton Station Location (for written testing)
- Address: 1720 North 1st Street, Hamilton
Benefits for the Bitterroot Community
- Convenience: The local CDL testing option allows residents interested in driving tractor trailers, buses, or tankers to complete their skills tests without traveling long distances.
- Employment Opportunities: The expanded services will support local job seekers by facilitating access to CDL licenses, thereby helping to fill the shortage of truck drivers in the area.
- Economic Growth: By boosting the availability of CDL-certified drivers, this initiative contributes to local economic growth by enhancing the transportation and logistics industry in Ravalli County.
Steps to Obtain a CDL in Montana
- Schedule a CDL Knowledge Test: Make an appointment at https://cars.dojmt.gov and study the Montana Commercial Driver License Manual.
- Obtain Medical Certification: Acquire a favorable medical examiner certificate.
- Take the Written Test: Appear with required documents for the knowledge test.
- Hold a Commercial Learner’s Permit: Must be held for a minimum of two weeks before skills testing.
- Pass Skills Testing: If successful, the applicant will be upgraded to CDL the same day.
More detailed information on endorsements, fees, and other requirements can be found at the MVD's Commercial Driver Licensing page.
Upcoming Training Requirements
Effective November 13, 2023, first-time Class A or Class B CDL applicants will be required to complete Entry Level Driver Training (ELDT). More information on ELDT can be accessed at the FMCSA's ELDT page.
Statement from MVD Administrator Laurie Bakri
MVD Administrator Laurie Bakri emphasized the importance of the expansion, saying, “We’re always looking to expand services to better serve our customers. The option to complete CDL testing locally will help fill the shortage of truck drivers and provide job opportunities for Montanans.”
The Hamilton MVD's CDL testing services signify a promising step in enhancing local accessibility to commercial driving licenses, creating job opportunities, and supporting the broader community of Ravalli County.