DL 520 ETP Form – The DL 520 ETP Form (full title: Employer Testing Program Application for Employer Number) is the official California DMV document that commercial employers must complete to participate in the Employer Testing Program (ETP). This program lets qualified employers administer the behind-the-wheel drive test portion of Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Class A and Class B exams for their employees, bypassing standard DMV testing lines.
If you operate a fleet of commercial vehicles and want to streamline CDL testing and certification for your drivers, the DL 520 ETP PDF is your starting point. Below is a comprehensive, up-to-date guide based on official California DMV resources (as of 2026).
What Is the DL 520 ETP Form?
The DL 520 ETP is a multi-section application form used to request (or renew) an official Employer Number from the California DMV. Once approved, your company gains authority to conduct DMV-compliant drive tests and issue Certificates of Driving Skill (DL 170 ETP).
- Form revision: DL 520 ETP (REV. 11/2018)
- Fee: $45 non-refundable application or renewal fee
- Purpose: Establishes your company as an authorized ETP participant, designates administrators and authorized representatives, and specifies vehicle classes you can test.
This is not the actual driving test form — it is the gateway application to the entire program.
What Is the California DMV Employer Testing Program (ETP)?
The Employer Testing Program (ETP) is a third-party testing initiative authorized under California Vehicle Code §15250 and Title 13 CCR Article 2.1. It allows approved public and private employers of commercial drivers to administer the skills (drive) test portion of CDL licensing.
Key features:
- Employers use DMV-approved routes and standardized maneuvers.
- Successful drivers receive a DL 170 ETP Certificate of Driving Skill.
- DMV retains final authority to issue the actual CDL.
- Random audits ensure compliance; drivers may be re-tested by DMV within 30 days.
The program benefits employers with large fleets by reducing scheduling delays and allowing testing in company-specific vehicles.
Who Needs the DL 520 ETP Form?
You need the DL 520 ETP Form if your organization:
- Employs commercial drivers requiring Class A or Class B CDLs (tractor-trailers, buses, passenger vehicles, or hazmat carriers).
- Wants to conduct in-house drive tests instead of sending employees to DMV field offices.
- Meets minimum requirements: documented training/testing program, qualified examiners, approved drive-test routes, and enrollment in the Employer Pull Notice (EPN) Program.
Typical applicants include trucking companies, bus operators, municipalities, and private carriers.
Important: Administrators and examiners have strict qualification rules (3+ years of valid CDL experience, background checks, DMV training, etc.).
How to Apply for the Employer Testing Program Using DL 520 ETP?
Follow these official steps from the DMV:
- Gather required documents:
- Completed DL 520 ETP (PDF)
- Employer Testing Program Agreement (DL 520B ETP)
- Surety Bond (DL 524 ETP) — principal name and DBA must match exactly
- Primary + alternate drive-test routes (DL 814 ETP, DL 807 ETP, and 8.5″ × 11″ maps)
- Pay the $45 fee (check or money order).
- Schedule an appointment with your local Occupational Licensing (OL) Inspections office via the DMV online scheduling system.
- Submit the complete package in person or as directed. An onsite review may be required for new applicants.
Download the official DL 520 ETP Form PDF here:
https://www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/uploads/2025/05/DL-520-ETP-R11-2018-ASB-WWW.pdf
Step-by-Step Guide to Completing the DL 520 ETP Form
Use black or blue ink only. Print clearly. Any changes must be initialed.
Section 1 – Employer Information
- Principal name(s) and DBA (must match surety bond exactly)
- Previous employer number (if renewing)
- Addresses, phone, email
- Record-keeping facility location
- Number of commercial drivers employed
- Nature of business and vehicle use
- EPN Program status (required for all ETP participants)
Section 2 – Vehicle Type Description
- Fleet size
- Check the exact CDL classes you wish to certify for (must align with your business)
- Indicate if hazmat vehicles are used
Section 3 – Route and Record Information
- Primary route approval number and location
Section 4 – Authorized Representatives
- List names, DL numbers, addresses, and add/delete dates
Section 5 – Certification
- Administrator must sign under penalty of perjury, confirming compliance with all ETP regulations.
Pro tip: Attach extra pages if needed and reference them clearly.
Required Documents and Fees for ETP Application
| Item | Required For | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| DL 520 ETP | All applications | Main application form |
| DL 520B ETP | All applications | Agreement form |
| DL 524 ETP Surety Bond | Original applications | Must match name/DBA exactly |
| Route docs (DL 807 + DL 814 + maps) | Original & renewal | Primary + alternate routes |
| $45 fee | Original & renewal | Non-refundable |
Renewal: Submit every 3 years at least 45 days before expiration, including driver verification list.
Benefits of Participating in the ETP
- Faster CDL processing for your employees
- Testing in familiar company vehicles and routes
- Reduced DMV wait times
- Full control over training and testing schedules
- Official DMV recognition of your program
Renewal and Changes to Your ETP Employer Number
- Renewal: Every 3 years with updated forms and routes
- Changes (address, representative, class, administrator): Submit new or updated DL 520 ETP within 10 days
- Voluntary cancellation: Use DL 520C ETP
- Reactivation: Use DL 817 ETP (if expired <1 year may need full re-application)
Frequently Asked Questions About DL 520 ETP
Is the form free?
No — $45 fee per application/renewal.
Can I download and fill it online?
Yes, but print and sign in ink; digital signatures are not accepted.
Do I need separate forms for examiners?
Yes — each examiner needs DL 811 ETP and training.
Where do I submit the form?
Local OL Inspections office (schedule online).
Related Forms and Official Resources
- Certificate of Driving Skill: DL 170 ETP
- Examiner Application: DL 811 ETP
- Route Approval Forms: DL 807 ETP & DL 814 ETP
- Full ETP Overview: DMV ETP Page
- Apply Page: ETP Application Instructions
For the most current information, always visit the official California DMV website or contact the ETP Unit at (916) 229-3154.
Ready to apply? Download the DL 520 ETP Form PDF directly from the DMV and start your Employer Testing Program application today. This program can significantly speed up CDL certification for your commercial drivers while maintaining full DMV compliance.