Becoming an electrical lineman is one of the most rewarding and demanding career paths in the skilled trades. Linemen keep the power flowing—installing, maintaining, and repairing high-voltage lines that connect homes, businesses, and entire communities.
But before you ever climb a pole or operate a bucket truck, there’s one critical step that often determines whether you’ll even get your foot in the door: earning your Commercial Driver’s License (CDL).
Why a CDL Is Essential for Linemen
Driving the truck is the easiest part of the job—but you won’t even start without a CDL.
Most utilities and contractors require new hires or apprentices to have a valid CDL or to obtain one shortly after being hired. In many cases, you won’t even be considered for an apprenticeship without it.
Here’s why:
- Operating heavy equipment: Linemen often use bucket trucks, digger derricks, and large trucks carrying spools of wire or transformers — all of which typically exceed 26,000 pounds. That means a CDL is required by law to operate them.
- Job requirement: Many utility companies and contractors require a CDL before hiring, or within the first 60 days of employment.
- Career advancement: Having your CDL early makes you a more valuable apprentice and can help you move up faster in your career.
- Safety and compliance: Operating commercial vehicles means understanding and following DOT safety standards — an essential part of being a responsible lineman.
What Class of CDL Does a Lineman Need?
Most linemen pursue a Class B CDL, which allows you to drive single vehicles over 26,001 pounds—like a bucket or service truck.
However, obtaining a Class A CDL gives you the flexibility to operate larger trucks and trailers used to haul heavy poles or materials between job sites. Many experienced linemen choose Class A because it broadens their career potential.
The issue is that many CDL trucking schools are focused on training semi-truck drivers and the federal regulations surrounding them.
CNS Driver Training Center in Lititz, PA offers very affordable CDL hotshot training geared towards aspiring drivers who are looking to get their CDL quickly, outside of a traditional CDL school.
Related: How Long Does It Take to Get a CDL? Your Timeline from Training to Hitting the Road
Why Many Lineman Schools Don’t Include CDL Training
It’s important to note that many electrical lineman programs or trade schools don’t include CDL training in their curriculum.
Why? Because CDL training adds significant cost, time, and regulatory requirements to the program. Many colleges or technical schools choose to keep tuition lower by leaving CDL instruction up to students to complete separately.
That means students finish the program only to discover they still need to spend additional time and money earning their CDL before they can begin work.
By earning your CDL first, you’ll be more employable, better prepared, and ready to take on any role from day one.
That’s where CNS Driver Training Center comes in.
How to Get Your CDL
- Apply for a Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) by passing the written exam at your DMV.
- Complete professional CDL training — this includes classroom instruction and hands-on driving practice.
- Pass the skills test, which includes a pre-trip inspection, basic control maneuvers, and an on-road driving exam.
- Obtain your medical card and meet DOT health requirements.
At CNS Driver Training Center, we walk you through every step — from permit to testing — with personalized instruction and flexible scheduling.
Free Permit Prep Class: Need to get your CDL permit before training starts? Take our 2 day class that covers everything you need to know so you can pass the CDL permit test at your local DMV or PennDOT. See the dates here.
Why Choose CNS Driver Training Center
Our FMCSA-registered CDL programs prepare future linemen with the practical skills, knowledge, and confidence to pass their CDL exam and get on the job fast.
Here’s what sets us apart:
- Hands-On Training: Learn in real trucks—not simulators—with a 1-on1 training with an instructor, not grouped sessions.
- Flexible Scheduling: Train around your work, school, or apprenticeship prep schedule.
- Affordable Programs: Get professional CDL instruction without the high tuition costs of trade school add-ons.
- Local Testing Support: We help you schedule and prepare for your state CDL exam, step by step.
- Career Focused: Our training is designed with trades in mind—perfect for future linemen, construction workers, and heavy equipment operators.
Enroll today at CNS Driver Training Center and take the first step toward your future as a professional lineman.
Tips for Future Linemen Earning Their CDL
- Start early. Don’t wait for an apprenticeship to require it—having a CDL first gives you a major head start.
- Study your state’s CDL manual. Understand the vehicle inspection, control skills, and road test requirements.
- Get your medical card. You’ll need a valid DOT Medical Examiner’s Certificate before applying. You can get this at our CNS Occupational Medicine clinic in Lititz headquarters.
- Practice pre-trip inspections. Being able to confidently explain and inspect your vehicle is a key part of passing the test.
If you’re serious about becoming a lineman, getting your CDL should be your first step in 2026.
You’ll stand out from other candidates, meet apprenticeship requirements faster, and show employers you’re committed to your career.
If you have questions, give us a call at 717-496-9145 or email us at support@cnstrains.com.
