DL 811 ETP Form – The DL 811 ETP Form (full title: Employer Testing Program Examiner Certification Application) is the official California DMV document required for individuals to become certified examiners under the Employer Testing Program (ETP). This program lets approved commercial employers administer their own commercial driver’s license (CDL) drive tests instead of sending employees to a DMV office. The form is still current as the Rev. 10/2017 version, with the latest official PDF upload in May 2025.
If you’re a fleet manager, safety director, or commercial driver looking for the DL 811 ETP PDF, this guide covers everything: eligibility, step-by-step instructions, submission process, renewal requirements, and the direct official download link.
What Is the DL 811 ETP Form?
The DL 811 ETP is the Employer Testing Program Examiner Certification Application. It is the mandatory form used by the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to evaluate and certify examiners who will conduct commercial drive tests for their employers.
Once approved, certified examiners can issue the Certificate of Driving Skill (DL 170 ETP) for Class A and Class B CDLs, including specific endorsements. This streamlines hiring and testing for companies operating tractors, buses, tank vehicles, and other commercial fleets in California.
Why Employers Use the Employer Testing Program (ETP)
California’s ETP allows qualified public and private employers to handle the behind-the-wheel portion of CDL testing in-house. This reduces DMV wait times, gives employers more control over scheduling, and ensures tests follow strict federal (Title 49 CFR Part 384) and state standards.
To participate, every examiner must have an approved DL 811 ETP on file with the DMV. Without it, the employer cannot legally conduct drive tests.
Who Needs the DL 811 ETP Form?
You must complete and submit the DL 811 ETP Form if you want to:
- Become a new ETP examiner for your employer
- Renew your existing examiner certification (every 4 years)
- Reinstate examiner privileges after a lapse
Typical applicants include company safety officers, fleet trainers, or experienced CDL drivers designated by their employer.
Eligibility Requirements for ETP Examiner Certification
To qualify, you must meet these strict DMV criteria before submitting the DL 811 ETP:
- Hold a valid California commercial driver license (CDL) with the appropriate class and endorsements for at least 3 years
- Have a current valid Medical Examination Report on file with DMV
- Have no disqualifying actions on your California CDL
- Pass a Live Scan fingerprint background check (no felony convictions in the last 10 years and no fraudulent activity convictions)
- Complete DMV-required Driving Performance Evaluation (DPE) training and proficiency tests
A non-refundable $150 training fee applies.
Step-by-Step Guide to Completing the DL 811 ETP Form
- Personal Information — Enter your driver license number, mailing and street addresses, phone number, birthdate, and years holding your current CDL class.
- Training Request — Select your first and second choice for examiner training dates.
- Testing Locations & Types — Indicate where you will conduct tests and check the specific drive tests you want to administer (e.g., Class A non-passenger tractor-trailer, Class B bus 16+ passengers, etc.).
- Employer Details — Provide your employer’s name, address, and phone number.
- Certification Statement — Sign and date under penalty of perjury confirming you meet all qualifications and will test only your employer’s vehicles.
- Attach Required Documents — Include the second copy of your completed DMV 8016 Live Scan form.
The form is simple, one-page, and must be filled out in black or blue ink.
How to Download the Official DL 811 ETP PDF (Free)?
Direct official download link (latest version):
https://www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/uploads/2025/05/DL-811-ETP-R10-2017-ASB-WWW.pdf
You can also access it directly from the California DMV Occupational Licensing Forms page. Always use the official DMV PDF to ensure you have the most current version.
How to Submit the DL 811 ETP Application?
Mail the completed DL 811 ETP form and the second copy of your DMV 8016 Live Scan form to:
Department of Motor Vehicles
Occupational Licensing, ETP Unit
PO Box 932342, MS L224
Sacramento, CA 94232-3450
DMV will review your application, run the background check, and notify you by mail if you are eligible for training. You cannot schedule DPE training until you receive approval.
ETP Examiner Training and Certification Process
After DMV approves your DL 811 ETP:
- Pay the $150 DPE training fee
- Complete the consolidated online + instructor-led + in-person testing course
- Pass proficiency tests
Certification is valid for 4 years. It is strongly recommended to submit renewal paperwork at least 45 days before expiration.
Renewing or Modifying Your DL 811 ETP Certification
Use the same DL 811 ETP form for renewal. Submit it with updated information if your employer, testing locations, or CDL endorsements have changed. Separate forms exist for reinstatement (DL 813 ETP) if your certification has lapsed.
Frequently Asked Questions About the DL 811 ETP Form
Is the DL 811 ETP form free?
Yes — the PDF download is free. Only the training course has a $150 fee.
How long does certification take?
Processing plus training typically takes several weeks. Submit early.
Can I test for multiple employers?
No — the form ties certification to the specific employer listed.
What happens if I have a recent felony?
Certification will be denied if you have a felony conviction within the last 10 years or any fraud-related conviction.
Official California DMV Resources for the Employer Testing Program
- Employer Testing Program main page: dmv.ca.gov ETP overview
- ETP Examiner Training Schedule
- Full list of ETP forms (including DL 520 ETP for employer enrollment)
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer directly to the California DMV website and use the official DL 811 ETP PDF linked above. Submitting a complete and accurate application is the fastest way to get your ETP examiner certification approved.