DL 1236 Form – The DL 1236 Form, officially known as the California Commercial Driver Behind the Wheel Training Certification, is a mandatory document for anyone applying for their first Class A or Class B Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) in California. This free PDF form verifies that you have completed the state-required minimum of 15 hours of behind-the-wheel (BTW) training.
If you’re pursuing a California CDL, downloading and properly completing the DL 1236 PDF is a critical step before your license can be issued. Below is the most up-to-date, SEO-optimized guide based on official California DMV sources as of 2026.
What Is the DL 1236 Form?
The DL 1236 (REV. 8/2021) is the official California Commercial Driver Behind the Wheel Training Certification form issued by the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). Its sole purpose is to document and certify that a first-time Class A or Class B CDL applicant has completed the required behind-the-wheel training mandated by California Vehicle Code (CVC) §15250.1.
Unlike federal Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) requirements, the DL 1236 specifically addresses California’s additional state requirement for hands-on driving experience before a CDL is issued.
Who Needs to Complete the DL 1236 Form?
You must submit a completed DL 1236 if you are:
- Applying for your first Class A CDL
- Applying for your first Class B CDL
You do not need it for CDL renewals, upgrades from an existing CDL, or Class C licenses. The form applies only to original (first-time) Class A or B commercial driver license applicants in California.
California Behind-the-Wheel Training Requirements for CDL
California law requires a minimum of 15 hours of behind-the-wheel training for first-time Class A or B CDL applicants. Of those 15 hours:
- At least 10 hours must be completed on a public road.
- The remaining hours can be on private property.
Important rule: Every 50 minutes of actual driving time counts as 1 hour of training.
Section 2 of the DL 1236 must be filled out by a certified training provider (not just any instructor). The provider logs each training session with dates, hours on public vs. private property, and their own CDL credentials.
How to Download the Official DL 1236 PDF?
The most current version of the form is available directly from the California DMV website:
Official Download Link:
DL 1236 California Commercial Driver Behind the Wheel Training Certification PDF
This is the exact R8 (8/2021) revision currently in use. Always download it from the official DMV site to ensure you have the latest, unaltered version.
Step-by-Step: How to Fill Out the DL 1236 Form?
- Section 1 – Applicant Information
Enter your full legal name, driver license number, class of license you are applying for (A or B), address, date of birth, city, state, and ZIP code. - Section 2 – Behind the Wheel Training Log
This section is completed by your certified training provider. It includes:- Training date(s)
- Class of license (A or B)
- Hours driven on public property
- Hours driven on private property
- Total hours per session
- Instructor’s full name, address, and their valid Commercial Driver License number + state of issuance
Add up the totals at the bottom: Total Public Hours + Total Private Hours = Grand Total (must be at least 15 hours, with ≥10 public).
- Section 3 – Certification
You (the applicant) sign and date the form, certifying under penalty of perjury that all information is true and that you have met the CVC §15250.1 requirements.
Print clearly or type the information. The form is designed to be filled out digitally or by hand.
How to Submit the DL 1236 Form to the DMV?
California now offers two convenient submission methods:
- Preferred: Through the DMV’s Virtual Field Office (VFO) portal (online submission).
- Alternative: Bring the completed paper form to any DMV field office.
When you receive your Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP), the DMV will provide specific instructions and a direct link to upload your DL 1236 via the VFO system. Submit the form before your CDL skills test or issuance appointment.
Why Behind-the-Wheel Training Is Required for California CDL Applicants?
The 15-hour BTW requirement (in addition to federal ELDT) ensures new commercial drivers gain real-world experience operating large vehicles safely on public roads before carrying passengers or cargo. This California-specific rule helps reduce accidents and improves overall road safety for professional drivers.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About DL 1236
Can I use training from another state?
No. The DL 1236 must be completed with a California-certified training provider for the state requirement.
Does the form expire?
No expiration date on the form itself, but training hours must be recent and relevant to your application.
Do I need DL 1236 for endorsements (P, S, H)?
Only if you are applying for your original Class A or B CDL. Existing CDL holders adding endorsements do not need it.
Where can I find a certified training provider?
Contact approved California trucking schools or check the DMV’s commercial driver resources.
Final Tips for a Smooth CDL Application
- Complete your federal ELDT before or alongside your 15-hour BTW training.
- Keep a copy of your signed DL 1236 for your records.
- Double-check that your training provider has filled out Section 2 completely and legibly.
- Submit early — processing can add time to your CDL issuance.
Ready to get started? Download the official form here:
DL 1236 PDF – California Commercial Driver Behind the Wheel Training Certification
For the latest updates, always visit the official California DMV Commercial Driver’s License page. Safe driving and successful licensing!