Do You Need a CDL to Drive for UPS? UPS Driver Requirements Detailed

Do You Need a CDL to Drive for UPS?

We reached out to UPS customer service to find out more about driver requirements. To be a United Parcel Service (UPS) delivery driver, you do not need a commercial driver’s license (CDL), customer service representatives said. However, UPS tractor-trailer and freight drivers must have a valid CDL. The licensing and testing requirements for each position are as follows:

• Delivery Drivers (Vans, Box Trucks)
  • You must have a valid driver’s license in your current state of residence
  • You must pass a Department of Transportation (DOT) physical, including a drug test
  • You should have the ability to drive a manual transmission (as previously reported)
• Tractor-Trailer Drivers
  • You must have a valid state driver’s license and CDL. A CDL double endorsement (for pulling double trailers) is recommended, but not required.
  • You must pass a DOT physical and drug test
  • You must pass a UPS road test
  • You must submit a motor vehicle record driving abstract that has been issued within 30 days
  • You must be at least 21 years old, mentally and physically fit, and fluent in reading and writing English
• Freight Drivers
  • You must have a valid state driver’s license and a Class A CDL, including hazmat, twin trailer, and tanker endorsements
  • You must pass a DOT physical and drug test
  • You must be at least 21 years old, mentally and physically fit, and fluent in reading and writing English

UPS does not provide CDL training to new or potential drivers. You can see our article for the list of companies that offer CDL training. And, you can check out our related article for the list of places where you rent a CDL truck for your test.

UPS does provide some other training, including hands-on training for delivery drivers. For more information and to apply for jobs in your area, visit the UPS career site. Once you apply, we explain how long it takes to become a UPS driver.