The fee for obtaining a CDL in Alabama involves several factors to be paid based on the type of license you are applying for, plus any additional endorsements or requirements. In case you want to get a full answer for how much does it cost to get a CDL in Alabama? You are in the right place! A ranging fee from $5,000 to $8,000 is expected to pay for an Alabama CDL. Whether you are applying for the very first time or this is an upgrade in your license class, the whole process, right from testing fees through license classes and other requirements to medical examination and endorsement, has its price. With this guide, we will walk you through how much it costs to get a CDL in Alabama from every angle. In this way, you can prepare in advance for the journey ahead and make the most of it. Let’s get started now!
How much does it cost to get a CDL in Alabama?
You can expect to pay an average in getting a CDL in Alabama ranging from $5,000 to $8,000. The fees to get your CDL in Alabama are based on license type and other requirements. Other potential fees you might incur but are not limited to, include medical testing, background checks, insurance, etc. We shall look at all costs in detail so that you may familiarize yourself with what to expect when budgeting for your CDL.
CDL Class fees
Each class denotes what kind of vehicle you may drive, while the fees that accompany this are inclusive of the administration required in their issuance. The breakdown of the fees for the CDL class is as follows:
Class A license
- A Class A license costs $66.25.
- The Class A license is usually required to drive huge semi-trucks and tractor-trailers in interstate and intrastate commerce.
- This license authorizes drivers to operate any combination vehicle with a GCWR of 26,001 pounds or more, as long as the towed vehicle is in excess of 10,000 pounds.
Class B license
- A Class B license costs $56.25.
- The Class B license normally are for buses, delivery trucks, and dump trucks.
- This license is for single vehicles in excess of 26,001 pounds GCWR or for vehicles towing a trailer that does not exceed 10,000 pounds.
Class C license
- A Class C license costs $36.25.
- The Class C license is applied for smaller vehicles that don’t fit the Class A and B vehicles but are intended to carry 16 or more passengers, including the driver, or hazardous material, which requires placarding.
- This license would be used when driving a van, small passenger bus, or specialized vehicle for hazardous loads.
Important notes:
- These are the standard fees throughout Alabama and are non-refundable.
- Make sure you have all the required documents and that you meet all the eligibility requirements for your license class before you apply.
- Payments accepted include cash or card; no checks accepted.
- Understanding these fees upfront can help you budget effectively and make certain that the process goes smoothly when getting your CDL.
Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP)
- An Alabama CLP costs $36.25.
- Applicants must obtain this first before getting a full CDL in order to practice driving a commercial vehicle.
This license is issued for a limited period and is used for driving a commercial vehicle accompanied by a supervising driver.
Skills tests fee
- A skills test is required for applicants who have never held a CDL or are upgrading their license class and it costs $20
- It will be a practical test through an appointment and will cover areas such as pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and on-road driving.
- The fee charged for the skills test is meant for the due conduct of the test and maintaining the test facilities.
These skills tests fees are non-refundable and must be paid before the scheduling or completion of tests. It is very important to prepare properly for these, as retesting will incur additional costs regarding payment of these same fees.
Additional fees
Other costs will be associated with meeting the requirements for commercial driving aside from the testing and licensing fee when a driver applies for a CDL in Alabama. These may vary in different ways depending on individual circumstances and specific endorsements desired, as shown below:
Training fee
According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), new applicants for CDL must all meet Entry Level Driver Training (ELDT) requirements before being permitted to sit for their skills test. The ELDT applies to:
- First-time CDL applicants.
- People upgrading from Class B to Class A.
- Those adding an endorsement, such as for a passenger (P) or hazardous materials (H), or school bus (S).
Some of the in-depth CDL training programs in Alabama cost anywhere between $3,000 to $8,000, depending on:
- School location: The general cost may be higher in urban areas compared to rural locations.
- Type of program: Full-time courses may cost more than part-time classes.
TSA background check for Hazardous Materials endorsement fee
- All those applying for a hazardous materials endorsement need to undergo the TSA background check at an approximate cost of $86.50.
- This fee covers fingerprinting and a security check to ensure that the applicant does not pose any threat to security.
Medical examination fee
- Unless medically exempt, all applicants for the CDL are required to take a DOT medical exam. DOT medical exam fees typically range from $75 to $150, although some providers may charge more, depending on the practitioner and location.
- This will ensure that an applicant can meet the minimum physical and health requirements for safely operating commercial vehicles.
By accounting for these extra expenses, an applicant will be better prepared financially to undergo the process of getting a CDL and perhaps some specialized endorsements.
Additional considerations for out-of-state applicants
Other requirements and some added costs may be involved when out-of-state applicants are applying for a CDL in Alabama. Some of the things to consider include:
Transfer fees (when applicable):
- Those who transfer a CDL from another state may have to pay a fee related to transferring records or checking their credentials.
- Accordingly, the fee varies from $10 to $30, which serves the variation of state-specific documentation and its processing charges.
Requirements for permanent residency and domicile in Alabama:
- To be issued an Alabama CDL, the non-resident must provide proof of legal permanent residency and domicile in Alabama.
- While there is no direct cost for proving residency, the documentation needed to do so utility bills or lease agreements, perhaps may entail incidental expenses of their own, such as copying or notary fees, which range from about $5 to $20.
- Non-U.S. citizens must provide documentation of their legal status, which may involve fees for immigration paperwork or certification.
FAQs
1. How much is a CDL license in Alabama?
CDL license prices in Alabama, based on class of CDL license, as follows:
- Class A CDL: $66.25
- Class B CDL: $56.25
- Class C CDL: $36.25
They include issuance of your CDL after completion of tests and requirements for it.
2. How much does CDL school cost in Alabama?
The cost of CDL school in Alabama ranges from $3,000 to $8,000, depending on the school and the program. In addition, it will also include class training, behind-the-wheel instruction, and preparation for the CDL exam. Other schools may also offer financial aid or flexible payment options.
3. How much does an Alabama CDL permit cost?
A Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) costs $36.25 in Alabama. CLP will let you practice driving a commercial vehicle under supervision before you take your full CDL skills test.
4. How much does Alabama CDL renewal cost?
The fee to renew your Alabama CDL is identical to the application fee for the applicable license class:
- Class A CDL: $66.25
- Class B CDL: $56.25
- Class C CDL: $36.25
Final thoughts
Getting a CDL in Alabama is the perfect investment for anyone that is willing to have a promising and gainful career in transportation. With this understanding of the cost for testing, licensure, and more, you will be able to budget appropriately for the process. This guide took you through every detail of how much does it cost to get a CDL in Alabama, whether you’re applying for your first CDL or upgrading. Now that you’re informed, it’s time to take the first step toward hitting the road with your new commercial driving credentials!
