Why You Need A Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) in the Linework Trade

In the linework trade, having a Class A Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) is not just an advantage—it’s a necessity. Lineworkers are responsible for installing, maintaining, and repairing electrical power systems, which often require operating large, specialized vehicles and equipment weighing more than 26,000 pounds. Read on to learn more about the importance of a CDL, how to obtain one, and what endorsements you need as a lineworker.  

 

WHY CDLS ARE REQUIRED IN THE LINEWORK TRADE

Safety and Compliance 

• Operating heavy machinery and large vehicles, such as bucket trucks and digger derricks, is a routine part of a lineworker’s job. These vehicles require a higher level of skill and knowledge to operate safely. 

• Federal and state regulations mandate that anyone operating commercial vehicles must hold a CDL. This ensures that all drivers have met standardized requirements for safety and competence. 

 

Job Readiness and Employability 

• Many employers in the linework trade require candidates to have a CDL. It demonstrates that the candidate is ready to handle the responsibilities of the job from day one. 

• Having a CDL can significantly enhance a lineworker’s employability and career prospects. It opens up opportunities for higher-paying positions and more advanced roles within the industry. 

 

Operational Efficiency 

• Lineworkers often need to transport heavy equipment and materials to various job sites. A CDL allows them to drive the necessary vehicles, ensuring that projects can proceed without delays. 

• Operating a range of vehicles and equipment makes a lineworker more versatile and valuable to their employer. 

 

How to Get a CDL 

Obtaining a CDL involves several steps, each designed to ensure that the driver is fully prepared to operate commercial vehicles safely and effectively. 

 

1. Meet the Basic Requirements 

Age: You must be at least 18 years old to drive within your state (intrastate) and 21 to drive across state lines (interstate). 

Medical Examination: You must pass a Department of Transportation (DOT) medical exam to ensure you are physically capable of operating a commercial vehicle. Worried about a medical condition? Check out FMCSA’s website to learn more about medical exemptions.  

 

2. Obtain a Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) 

Knowledge Test: Study your state’s CDL manual and pass a written knowledge test to obtain your CLP. This permit allows you to practice driving commercial vehicles under the supervision of a licensed CDL holder. 

Practice: Federal law requires CLP holders to attend an approved training program/school that meets their state’s minimum driver training requirements to test for their CDL. You can use your CLP to gain practical additional experience driving commercial vehicles. This hands-on practice is crucial for passing the skills test. 

 

3. Pass the CDL Skills Test 

Pre-Trip Inspection: Demonstrate your ability to inspect a commercial vehicle to ensure it is safe to operate. 

Basic Vehicle Control: Show your ability to control the vehicle through various maneuvers, such as backing up, turning, and parking. 

On-Road Driving: Prove your competence in driving a commercial vehicle on public roads, following all traffic laws and safety regulations. 

 

4. Avoid license restrictions 

Air brake restriction: Use a vehicle with a full air brake system for your test. If you don’t, you’ll get an “L” or “Z” restriction on your license, meaning you can’t drive vehicles with air brakes. 

Manual transmission restriction: Take your test in a vehicle with a manual transmission. If you use an automatic, you’ll get an “E” restriction on your license, meaning you can’t drive manual transmission vehicles. 

Hitch Restriction: There are two types of commercial hitches: a fifth-wheel or Pintal hitch configuration. Make sure to train and test with a fifth-wheel hitch, or you will get an “O” restriction, meaning you can’t try a tractor-trailer configuration, limiting your skills to a bumper pull or Pintal hitch.   

 

CDL Training Options at Northwest Lineman College (NLC)

At NLC, students have two options for securing their CDL: before attending the program or while attending training. Both options are designed to accommodate different needs and schedules, ensuring that every student can achieve their career goals.

In the linework trade, a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) is more than just a credential—it’s a critical component of a lineworker’s skill set and required by most employers.