Alaska CDL Cost Explained: What To Expect

Stress on whether you can afford a CDL in Alaska? Wondering what exactly to expect to pay and how to save your pocket? It is a common concern of aspiring drivers. We address all in this post today. For a quick answer, the average cost of an Alaska CDL can go up from $5,000 to $10,000+, covering several associated costs. We will break down every dollar you will spend and suggest some tips to avoid wasting. Keep reading to better budget for your journey now!

How much does an Alaska CDL cost?

The total cost to get a CDL in Alaska can range from $5,000 to $10,000 or more. Here is the summary of costs you should expect:

The cost range depends on your choices and any additional expenses needed. Here is a detailed breakdown and explanation of Alaska CDL cost. 

Medical exam fee

Before applying for a CDL, you have to undergo a DOT medical examination to confirm your physical fitness to operate a commercial vehicle:

• Cost: $100 to $300.
• Duration: Valid for 24 months.
• Saving tip: Plan on completing your CDL process in advance before your medical certificate expires, as renewal or retest can be quite expensive.

Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) fee

You will need a CLP to practice driving under supervision before your skills test. Alaska has a minimal fee for the issuance of this permit:

• Cost: $15.
• Duration: 180 days.
• Saving tip: Be well prepared for the tests to avoid retesting. Make sure you schedule your skills test before your permit expires, so you do not have the hassles and cost of renewing it.

CDL training cost

Training is usually the most expensive part of getting a CDL in Alaska. The cost depends on the program, school, and license type:

• Cost: $4,000 to $8,000.
• Things to consider: 
  • Program length: Intensive, shorter programs can be more expensive but can save you time.
  • License class type: Class A training is usually more expensive than Class B or C but opens up broader career opportunities.
  • School reputation: Accredited schools with qualified instructors charge higher prices because of their improved quality in training.
• Saving tip: Some trucking companies in Alaska offer tuition reimbursement programs or even paid CDL training. These can drastically offset the training costs in return for a work commitment.

For more reference companies paying for your CDL training, check our post on Paid CDL training in Alaska.

CDL skills test fee

After finishing the training, you need to complete the CDL skills test to get your license:

• Cost: $25.
• Saving tip: Practice extensively, as any retaking of the test may add to the costs.

Physical CDL licensing fee

After you have passed the skills test, you will need to pay for your official license. Alaska has a few options, based on the type of license:

• Standard CDL: $100 for all Class A, B, and C.
• REAL-ID CDL: $120, meeting federal travel standards.

Other expenses

In addition to the basics, there are some optional or circumstantial fees you can encounter:

• Driving record fee: You will need a copy of your driving record with a fee of $10 to prove your eligibility for a CDL.
• Background check for hazardous materials endorsement: To apply for a hazmat endorsement, you are required to undergo a Transportation Security Administration (TSA) background check with a fee of around $80 to $90. 
• Limited license application fee: An additional fee of $100 may be charged if your application is unusual or requires special processing.
• License renewal fees: The cost of renewal is based on the type of license:
  • Standard CDL renewal: $100.
  • REAL-ID CDL renewal: $120.
  • CLP renewal: $5.
• License duplicate fees: If you lose, damage, or destroy your CDL, you will be required to pay for a replacement:
  • Standard CDL renewal: $15.
  • REAL-ID CDL renewal: $35.
• Changes to CDL/CLP or endorsements: If you need to upgrade your license, add endorsements, or remove restrictions, there are additional fees of $15 per change.
• Restatement fees: License suspensions or other administrative actions often include restatement fees:
  • Non-DUI administrative action: $100.
  • Single DUI or refusal: $200.
  • Multiple offenses: $250 to $5,000.
• Vehicle rental for skills test: If you do not have access to a commercial vehicle to use for the skills test, you have to rent one with a cost of $100 to $300.
• Study materials: Some resources require a charge of $50 to $100 to access their study materials and practice tests for CDL prep. However, with CDL Prep, you can take our practice tests with zero cost.

Take free Alaska CDL practice tests!

FAQs

1. How much does CDL school cost in Alaska?

The cost of CDL schools in Alaska usually ranges from $4,000 to $8,000. These costs depend on the length of the program, the class of CDL you pursue, and the reputation of the training school. Tuition reimbursement programs or company-sponsored training will drastically lower these costs.

2. How much does it cost to renew a CDL in Alaska?

Renewing a CDL in Alaska costs $100 for a standard CDL and $120 for a REAL-ID CDL. In case you are renewing a CLP, the fee is just $5. Make sure you renew your license before it expires to avoid extra charges or any other hassle.

Final thoughts

Understanding the estimate of Alaska CDL cost is crucial to planning for your journey into a commercial driving career. From medical examination to training and finally getting a license, it will cost anywhere from $5,000 to $10,000 or more depending on your options and situation. Consider tuition reimbursement or employer-paid programs, then you can soften the financial burden and focus on testing and training. Don’t forget to utilize our free test prep to secure your success while saving money. With proper planning and preparation, you can kick-start your trucking career without breaking the bank!