Are you considering entering commercial driving and wondering, “How much does it cost to get a CDL in Arkansas?” The average cost of getting a Commercial Driver’s License in Arkansas runs from $4,000 to $12,000. This will cover training programs, the application, testing fees, medical exams, and other optional endorsements. While the cost may vary from which path you choose, at least knowing these costs allows you to budget appropriately and make suitable decisions. In this article, we will explain the costs concerned and go through ways to minimize your investment while accomplishing your CDL. Scrolling down now!
How much does it cost to get a CDL in Arkansas?
The overall cost to an individual for acquiring a CDL in Arkansas normally ranges from $4,000 to $12,000. A number of elements of this license may include training, testing, medical examination fees, and the costs related to endorsements. Primary costs are split below:
Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) fee
The fee for a CLP in Arkansas is $50. You must have a CLP before you take the skills test. This permit allows you to practice driving a commercial vehicle on the roadways, provided you are accompanied by a licensed CDL holder.
The CLP requires you to pass a written knowledge test in areas such as traffic laws, road signs, and vehicle operation. Once issued, the CLP is valid for 180 days, during which time you may use it to gain experience before taking the skill test required for your full CDL.
Take the Arkansas CDL practice test here!
Skill tests fee
The skills test fee for a CDL in Arkansas is usually incorporated into the application process, but this may vary depending on the site of testing. The skills test is a requirement for obtaining a CDL and may determine whether you are capable of safely operating a commercial motor vehicle.
The test includes a pre-trip inspection, basic control skills, and an on-road driving test. You will have to take and pass each section of the skills test to advance in getting your CDL. It is advisable to reconfirm the exact fee using the Arkansas State Police or local testing sites for verification before booking a test.
Training fee
The cost of CDL training in Arkansas depends on the provider. Most private CDL schools charge anything from $5,000 to $7,000, while community colleges or local institutions may offer less expensive programs, sometimes for less than $1,000. Most training includes classroom and behind-the-wheel training to prepare you for the CDL skills test.
Note that, under the new ELDT regulation that took effect in February 2022, all CDL applicants are required to undergo a federally approved training program prior to taking a skills test. This ensures that drivers have been properly trained in safety and operational skills. The price of training could be increased by this kind of value-added curriculum, which includes specific lessons on vehicle inspection, basic control, and safe driving practices.
Medical examination fee
The medical examination fee for an Arkansas CDL usually ranges from $50 to $150, depending on the provider. All applicants for a CDL must pass a Department of Transportation physical exam as part of the application process, which will ensure that they meet the minimum health standards to operate commercial vehicles.
The medical exam covers your medical history, tests of your vision and hearing, and a physical checkup to look for high blood pressure, diabetes, or any other health problems that could affect your ability to drive safely. Prices vary depending on the healthcare professional providing the exam, so check around by calling local clinics or doctors who are FMCSA-approved medical examiners.
Obtain physical CDL fee
The fee for a physical CDL in Arkansas ranges according to the length of the license. According to the latest Arkansas regulations, the fee for a four-year CDL is $40. For a five-year CDL, the fee will be $50.
This extension allows the drivers to have their license for an extra year with more convenience and at a lower cost than the shorter-term license. This fee covers the processing and issuance of the physical CDL card, which you will be required to carry while operating a commercial vehicle.
Additional fees
Other than the training and testing fees, there are a number of other fees you may incur while getting a CDL in Arkansas. These include adding an endorsement, re-testing, and replacing or transferring an out-of-state license. Knowing these other costs will help you budget well and not be caught off guard when looking to apply for a CDL.
Add CDL endorsement fee
The cost of a CDL endorsement in Arkansas will vary depending on the type of endorsement you apply for. Most endorsements have a fee ranging between $10 and $50. To get an endorsement, you will need to pass the specific written test and may also need to take a skills test.
CDL renewal fee
The renewal fee is related to license duration. Under the newest provisions, the fee to renew your CDL for four years is $40, and for five years is $50. Renewing, like first acquiring your CDL, involves the same degree of medical qualification, including a DOT physical examination, in most instances.
Out-of-state license conversion fee
Most states charge around $50 to transfer an out-of-state license. You will need to show proof of your current CDL, and you might be asked to pass vision and medical exams, as well as to meet any other state-specific requirements. In a few instances, depending on the endorsements that you already have and your driving violation history, there might be additional required paperwork or testing.
TSA background check for Hazardous Materials endorsement fee
To apply for a Hazardous Materials endorsement on your CDL in Arkansas, you need to first undergo a background check through the TSA. This background check should cost around $86.50, although it may be a little bit higher because of the service fees charged by some agencies. The fee will entail fingerprinting, verification of identity, and a record check necessary for ensuring compliance with security standards to ship hazardous materials.
FAQs
1. How much does a CDL class cost in Arkansas?
The cost of an Arkansas CDL class differs according to the provider, with private truck driving school tuition ranging from about $5,000 to about $7,000. Community colleges or other training programs in your local area may be less expensive. The lowest price for some local classes is less than $1,000. Most will contain classroom time, actual driving practice on the road, and studying to take the CDL test.
2. What are the cheapest ways to get a CDL license in Arkansas?
The cheapest options to obtain a CDL license in Arkansas are community colleges and Workforce Development programs. Because these schools most often charge significantly lower fees compared to private schools. In addition, some employers like trucking companies offer paid CDL training in Arkansas with the commitment of working for them for some time after you have been licensed.
Final thoughts
Now you can have an idea of how much does it cost to get a CDL in Arkansas. The overall cost of obtaining a CDL in Arkansas would range from $4,000 to $12,000, depending on the type of training chosen and other fees involved. Be it private schooling or employer-sponsored programs, earning a CDL is a worthy step towards a rewarding career in trucking. Ready for the next step? Get affordable training in your area and start your path to becoming a pro driver today!
