DOT certified third party testing is available for individuals seeking to obtain a Commercial Driver's License (CDL A). CDL testing has three phases: Pre-Trip, Skills Test, and Road Test. The tests must be taken and passed in this sequence. You must hold a Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP) for at least 14 days before you can complete the required tests. We recommend you schedule the test time once you receive your CLP as Northeast Iowa Community College must record your CLP information in Commercial Skills Test Information Management System (CSTIMS) and verification takes at least two business days.