Getting a CDL is a worthwhile investment for your future, but understanding “How much does it cost to get a CDL” helps you budget more effectively. For a brief answer, it costs you a total of $1,500 to $9,000 to get a CDL. The cost varies since there are many factors, from where you live to what kind of training and endorsement you need. But don’t worry! You do not have to search for these costs on your own. This post provides you with all the necessary costs included for a CDL license. We will dive into the specific influence factors, cost, what to expect throughout your journey to getting your CDL, and tips to reduce the cost. Continue reading for more details!
What factors affect CDL costs?
There are several variables involved in calculating how much it costs to get a CDL. Let’s delve into some of the most common factors affecting the final price tag:
- Your state: Everything from training fees to license application costs can be controlled by which state you live in. While some might offer tuition at a much lower cost for in-state students or have less expensive permit and license fees, some states may charge higher rates for the same services.
- Type of program: The comprehensiveness of CDL training programs varies, and so does their cost. Some training courses contain both written and skills test preparation, while others may be limited to exam passing.
- Type of CDL class: The total price also depends on your chosen class of CDL. Normally, the CDL Class A, entitling you to drive big trucks with a higher gross vehicle weight rating, can be more expensive because more training is required. Class B and Class C are normally cheaper because these licenses are used for smaller commercial vehicles.
- Endorsements and specializations: Adding endorsements will add to the total cost, but increase your earning potential in the industry.
- Financial assistance options: Financial aid is available for you to reduce the costs of CDL training.
How much does it cost to get a CDL?
As several factors contribute towards the cost, getting a CDL can vary significantly, with the total cost ranging from $1,500 to $9,000. The cost includes several fees, from CDLtuition, test fees, endorsements, and much more listed in the next section. By understanding all fees contributed, you can prepare your budget well and even minimize your total costs. For example, you can reduce the cost of training if you are confident with your knowledge and skills.
Breakdown of fees to get a CDL
Below is a detailed breakdown of the different costs and other expenses that you will encounter in acquiring your CDL, according to the latest updates:
CDL training program costs
The largest expense for most aspiring CDL owners is the training program. The CDL schools provide classroom as well as on-the-job training that prepares candidates for written and skill testing. The tuition prices for such programs would generally range from $3,000 to over $10,000, depending on the schools as well as the comprehensiveness of training. For more details, you can read our post on how much CDL school is.
Entry-level driver training (ELDT) certification
Beginning in February 2022, according to the Department of Safety and Homeland Security, new Class A and Class B CDL drivers must receive an ELDT certification. Theoretical and practical training comprises the certification. Enrolling in this course costs between $1,500 and $5,000.
CDL permit fees
Before you are allowed to hit the roads for a road test, you need a Commercial Learner’s Permit or CLP. These range in cost from a low of $10 in some states to highs of $90.
CDL application fees
These fees can run from $0 to around $50, depending on the state. This covers all of the paperwork and a little initial processing. You are required to fill in accurate information about your identification information, certifications, or medical conditions in the application form.
CDL written test fees
You must pass the written test to process the skills test. A written test can cost anywhere from $3 to $125 to enlist.
CDL skills and road test fees
After passing the written test, you have to pass the skills and road test. This final step is going to cost between $15 and $250 depending on your state and whether using the school’s vehicle or providing your own.
CDL licence fees
Once you have passed all the required exams, you will have to pay for the physical CDL. This is a state-specific price, ranging between $5 and $160. Remember, your CDl will be required to go through renewals at periodic intervals. These renewal fees will also differ based on location.
Additional costs
- Medical exam: You are required to obtain a DOT physical examination to get a CDL license. Your medical cost can vary from $50 to $150.
- Miscellaneous expenses: Study materials, background checks, and state-specific fees can all add to the overall cost of your CDL.
- Endorsements: Adding endorsements such as HazMat or Passenger Vehicle operation to your CDL will require additional tests and fees, each of which ranges from $5 to $50.
Costs of retaking exams
Failure of either the written or skills exam will be subject to retake fees, which vary by state and test but range from $25 to $200.
The table below is a summary of the key essential fees by state to help you estimate your cost of getting a CDL:
| State | License fee | Permit App | App | Written Test | Skills Test | CDL Road Test | CDL Endorsement |
| Alaska | $120.00 | $15.00 | x | x | $25.00 | $25.00 | x |
| Arizona | $25.00 | $25.00 | x | x | x | x | $10.00 |
| Arkansas | $42.00 | x | x | $50.00 | x | x | x |
| California | $82.00 | x | x | x | $37.00 | x | $48.00 |
| Colorado | $17.08 | $18.52 | x | x | $15.00 | x | x |
| Connecticut | $70.00 | $10.00 | x | $16.00 | $30.00 | x | x |
| Delaware | $48.00 | $5.00 | x | x | x | x | $5.00 |
| Florida | $75.00 | x | x | x | x | x | $7.00 |
| Georgia | $32.00 | $10.00 | $35.00 | x | $50.00 | $5.00 | x |
| Hawaii | $5.00 | $30.00 | x | $15.00 | $50.00 | x | x |
| Idaho | $40.00 | $29.00 | x | $3.00 | x | x | $15.00 |
| Illinois | $60.00 | $50.00 | x | x | x | x | $5.00 |
| Indiana | $35.00 | $17.00 | x | x | x | x | $19.00 |
| Iowa | $8.00 | $12.00 | x | x | x | x | $5.00 |
| Kansas | $18.00 | x | x | x | $15.00 | x | $10.00 |
| Kentucky | $88.00 | $11.00 | $24.00 | x | x | x | x |
| Louisiana | $61.50 | x | $15.00 | x | x | x | $7.50 |
| Maine | $34.00 | x | x | $70.00 | x | x | $20.00 |
| Maryland | $50.00 | $90.00 | x | x | x | x | x |
| Massachusetts | $75.00 | $30.00 | $35.00 | x | x | $30.00 | $30.00 |
| Michigan | $25.00 | x | x | x | x | x | $5.00 |
| Minnesota | $51.00 | $10.50 | x | x | x | x | $2.50 |
| Mississippi | $55.00 | $16.00 | $25.00 | x | x | x | $5.00 |
| Missouri | $20.00 | $16.00 | x | x | x | x | x |
| Montana | $52.02 | x | x | x | x | x | x |
| Nebraska | $59.50 | x | x | $14.50 | x | x | x |
| Nevada | $112.25 | $58.25 | x | x | x | $31.00 | $18.25 |
| New Hampshire | $60.00 | $20.00 | x | x | x | x | $10.00 |
| New Jersey | $42.00 | x | x | $125.00 | x | x | $2.00 |
| New Mexico | $18.00 | x | x | x | x | x | x |
| New York | $164.50 | x | $10.00 | x | x | $40.00 | x |
| North Carolina | $21.50 | $21.50 | $43.25 | x | x | x | x |
| North Dakota | $15.00 | $15.00 | x | $5.00 | x | $5.00 | $3.00 |
| Ohio | $43.50 | $28.50 | x | x | x | x | $44.50 |
| Oklahoma | $56.50 | $4.00 | $25.00 | x | x | x | x |
| Oregon | $135.00 | $23.00 | x | $10.00 | $70.00 | x | x |
| Pennsylvania | $98.50 | x | x | x | x | x | $14.50 |
| Rhode Island | $82.50 | $72.50 | $12.50 | $10 each | x | x | x |
| South Carolina | $2.50 | $15.00 | x | x | x | x | x |
| South Dakota | $33.00 | $33.00 | x | x | x | x | $15.00 |
| Tennessee | $64.00 | x | $6.00 | x | x | x | $8.50 |
| Texas | $97.00 | $25.00 | x | x | x | x | $61.00 |
| Utah | $52.00 | x | x | x | x | x | $9.00 |
| Vermont | $60.00 | $15.00 | x | $32.00 | x | $32.00 | $14.00 |
| Virginia | $64.00 | $3.00 | x | x | x | x | $1.00 |
| Washington | $102.00 | $40.00 | x | $35.00 | $250.00 | x | $10.00 |
| West Virginia | $5.00 | $25.00 | x | x | x | x | $10.00 |
| Wisconsin | $74.00 | $30.00 | x | x | x | x | $5.00 |
| Wyoming | $50.00 | x | x | x | x | x | x |
Note: These fees are subject to change. Check with your state and test location for the latest updated prices.
Tips to reduce CDL costs
Worried about the total cost? Following are some programs to help you reduce the overall financial burden of obtaining a CDL:
- Company-sponsored training program: Some companies can pay for your training in return for a guarantee to drive for them upon receiving your CDL.
- Government assistance: State and federal financial aid programs exist to help pay for your training and certification.
- Scholarships and grants: Many CDL schools and other organizations have various scholarships, including the Future of Trucking Scholarship, which is awarded quarterly.
FAQs
1. How much does CDL training cost?
CDL training can be as low as $3,00 or more than $10,000, depending on which school and what program you attend.
2. How much does it cost to get a CDL license in New York?
In New York, the costs of examinations, license fees, and endorsement are estimated at $200. However, this fee does not include training costs and other expenses for health checks, study materials, and so on.
3. How long does it take to get a CDL?
The time to get a CDL also varies but generally takes 3 – 6 weeks, depending on the program and whether you go full-time or part-time.
To learn more about the timeline to obtain a CDL, check our post on How long it takes to get a CDL.
Final Thought
Hope that this article helps you address your concern, “How much does it cost to get a CDL”. Getting a CDL is a valuable investment in your future, opening the door to a rewarding career in transportation. While the cost of getting a CDL varies, understanding the fees involved and exploring financial assistance options can make the journey to obtain your CDL more affordable. So, why wait? Read our cost breakdown carefully and take the first steps on the road right now!
