The Delaware Department of Motor Vehicles DMV has announced a new initiative to partner with third-party organizations to conduct commercial driver’s license CDL exams.
This shift is in response to ongoing concerns about long wait times, which, while improving, still range from one to three weeks.
By enlisting third parties, the DMV aims to expedite the process and meet the growing demand for drivers.
The DMV is currently accepting applications from organizations interested in offering CDL exams, which will be charged at rates set by the third-party providers.
These rates will not be regulated by the DMV. However, Caleb Vicks, the DMV’s chief of driver services, reassures that safety will remain a priority.
The DMV will conduct routine audits of third-party organizations to ensure compliance with both federal and state requirements, especially those outlined by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration.
The Department of Education has been piloting the program since December 2023, and Vicks anticipates potential partnerships with the Delaware Department of Transportation DelDOT to handle skills exams.
The DMV also encourages state agencies, CDL schools, and small businesses to get involved in shortening wait times for drivers.
For more details, those interested in conducting CDL exams can visit the DMV’s dedicated webpage at dmv.de.gov/thirdpartycdltesting.