Trucks are a class of commercial vehicles for which you need a special driver's license. This license assures the authorities that people handling commercial cars can follow the rules and demonstrate competency while on the road. Trucks are large, and drivers must excel in parking, loading, driving and other operations. This piece covers a few requirements people must pass to get truck licenses. 

Medical Exam

Truck licenses confirm that the holders are mentally and physically fit to safely and competently drive. Health issues may impede your judgement, perception of risks and ability to react to challenges on the road. Excellent physical and mental health ensures your safety and that of the vehicle, cargo and other road users. 

Medical tests for truck licenses examine the driver's vision since trucks are large and maneuvering them requires good eyesight. You must also have good hearing to respond to noises and signals from other drivers safely. The medical test also examines vestibular, cardiovascular, renal and respiratory problems. 

Competency Test

The competency test checks your ability to drive heavy commercial vehicles. In this case, your ability to drive a truck must be satisfactory. Different registered training organizations can administer this test and assess your competency. The competency test also checks whether you have enough knowledge regarding vehicles, road usage and other features related to your class. 

Modern-day competency tests rely on a program that creates a virtual test resembling various road and truck conditions. You can answer multiple questions regarding safety and laws. Most of these tests come in different languages, making them easy for people of different origins. The best way to pass this test is to practice and read broadly. 

History 

Your driving history is also significant when applying for a truck license. A clean driving record assures the examiner that you have no major traffic violations. The clean record also opens opportunities for drivers in the trucking business. Once you obtain the license, potential employers know you are reliable in your past occupations. 

A driver's criminal history determines whether you get the license. Your criminal history includes details of convictions, disciplinary actions and arrests. The background check may also include an evaluation of your affiliations with criminal or terrorist groups. This requirement ensures that truck drivers do not pose risks to employees and the general public. 

The main requirements for getting truck licenses include a medical exam, competency test and thorough examination of your criminal and driving history. 

Contact a licensing entity for more information about qualifying for a truck license like an MC license.