How to Change Your CDL From Intrastate to Interstate

Last Updated September 16, 2025

Your CDL will open many doors for your career in trucking, though the type of CDL you obtain will limit where you’re permitted to drive. For example, the distinction between CDL intrastate vs. interstate will determine where you’re allowed to operate.

It’s also common for drivers or owner-operators to start with intrastate authority to gain experience before operating across state-lines.

For many drivers, learning how to change a CDL from intrastate to interstate can unlock new routes, better pay, and more business opportunities. Learn the difference between intrastate and interstate authority and the simple steps you can take to change your CDL.

What Is the Difference Between Intrastate vs. Interstate Authority?

Obtaining trucking authority is a must legally operating a commercial vehicle. However, there are different types of operating authority, including intrastate vs. interstate authority.

Intrastate authority means you’re restricted to driving within a single state’s borders. This option is often chosen by drivers who want to stay closer to home or who don’t plan on crossing state lines for work.

On the other hand, interstate authority allows you to haul goods or passengers across state lines, or even internationally into Canada or Mexico. That’s why many drivers eventually look into how to change their CDL from intrastate to interstate, since interstate driving offers more job opportunities.

While an interstate CDL certainly broadens your horizons, not all truck drivers will pursue this type of license. In fact, 77% of owner-operators report taking shorter routes to manage costs, so intrastate routes are gaining in popularity.

Ultimately, choosing to change your CDL from intrastate to interstate depends on your career goals.

Can You Change Your CDL From Intrastate to Interstate?

Yes, you can change CDL from intrastate to interstate, although the process differs from state to state.

If you want to run your own trucking company, it usually makes more sense to pursue an interstate CDL from the start. However, if you have an intrastate CDL, you can convert it to pursue longer interstate routes, many of which pay more than intrastate routes.

While it may not always make sense to change your CDL, it can be a good idea in some situations. For example, if you started as an intrastate company driver but want to be an owner-operator, it may make sense to get an interstate CDL.

In most cases, making the switch is worthwhile. Intrastate licenses limit you to one state, while interstate authority lets you take loads nationwide, which can mean more routes and potentially better pay.

How to Change Your CDL From Intrastate to Interstate

If you’re ready to upgrade your driving authority, the process to change a CDL from intrastate to interstate is straightforward but varies by state.

1. Sign Up for a DOT Physical Examination

Since interstate drivers must meet federal safety standards, you’ll need a medical examiner’s certificate proving you’re physically fit to drive across state lines. This exam checks basics like vision, hearing, blood pressure, and overall health.

2. Receive Your DOT Medical Certificate

If you pass your physical, the certified examiner will issue your DOT medical certificate. This document proves you meet federal health requirements. Be sure to keep it handy: you’ll need to submit it to your state’s DMV or licensing agency to update your authority.

3. Change Your K Restriction at Your State’s DMV

Once you have your DOT medical certificate, the next step to change CDL from intrastate to interstate is removing the K restriction on your license, which limits you to intrastate driving only.

While some states allow you to start the process online, most require you to visit the DMV in person. Bring this paperwork with you to complete the process:

• Your current CDL
• A valid DOT medical certificate
• Proof of identity, such as a driver’s license or passport
• Proof of residency, like a utility bill or lease agreement
• A completed application form for updating your CDL
• Any applicable fees. They vary by state, but the cost ranges from $25 to $100. Some states charge more for a new application and less for renewals.

Other Considerations When Changing From Intrastate to Interstate Driving

Changing your CDL from intrastate to interstate gives you access to more routes and opportunities. Still, there are a few things to keep in mind when making this change, including:

• Insurance requirements: Your insurance costs will likely increase for interstate driving. That’s because federal law requires a certain degree of coverage, while state laws vary. Be sure to shop around for upgraded coverage that won’t go over your budget.
• More inspections and safety requirements: There are more requirements for interstate weight, registration, and safety standards.
• Planning requirements: Intrastate drives are relatively straightforward, but interstate routes require more planning. If you’re expanding your business, you may need to invest in dispatching services to manage fuel, permits, schedules, and loads without compromising on quality or safety.

Switching from intrastate to interstate authority isn’t complicated, but it does require some planning. By completing a DOT physical and updating your K restriction, you can successfully change your CDL from intrastate to interstate and open the door to more opportunities.

Michael McCareins

Michael McCareins is the Content Marketing Associate at altLINE, where he is dedicated to creating and managing optimal content for readers. Following a brief career in media relations, Michael has discovered a passion for content marketing through developing unique, informative content to help audiences better understand ideas and topics such as invoice factoring and A/R financing.