How much is a CDL license in Nevada: Your Answer From A-Z

If you are considering a career as a commercial driver in Nevada, one of the most common questions is how much is a CDL license in Nevada. The cost of obtaining a Nevada CDL license may differ depending on the type of license, endorsements, and if you need training. Overall, you will have to pay anywhere from $3,500 to $9,000 for all the associated costs: the application fee itself, training expenses, and other fees like medical examinations and background checks. In this guide, we have all costs covered for you so you have a very clear idea of what exactly you will be looking at getting a Nevada CDL.

How much is a CDL license in Nevada?

A ranging cost from $3,500 to $9,000 is expected when paying for obtaining a Nevada CDL. Knowing these costs ahead of time can help you plan accordingly and not be surprised by a fee you have not accounted for.

Original/transfer CDL fee

[caption id="attachment_6356" align="aligncenter" width="800"] Original/transfer CDL fee[/caption] When you apply for a Nevada CDL for the first time or transfer your out-of-state CDL, there is an original or transfer CDL fee. The fee for how much will be determined by whether you will need to take both the knowledge and skills tests or just the knowledge tests.

• Original or transfer requiring knowledge and skills tests: $141.25

This would include an individual who has never held a CDL before or is transferring from another state and must take the written knowledge tests as well as the practical driving skills test.

• Original or transfer requiring knowledge tests only: $111.25

This fee applies to the original or transfer of a CDL from another state where you are only required to take the knowledge tests and do not need to take a skills test.

Skills tests fee

[caption id="attachment_6358" align="aligncenter" width="800"] Skills tests fee[/caption] The skills tests are the most critical aspect of receiving or making changes to a Commercial Driver's License in Nevada. It shows that you can safely operate a commercial vehicle and are following the regulations. Fees for the skills test, based on license class or endorsement changes:

• Driving skills test for a full license or restrictions/endorsements: $30 plus a $3.25 photo fee

This is the fee you pay to take the skills test for your first CDL or for any endorsement that requires a skills test, such as a passenger or school bus endorsement. The $3.25 photo fee ensures you are provided with an updated CDL with your photo.

• Driving skills test to add or remove a restriction or endorsement: $30

This is a flat fee for the driving portion of changing your CDL by adding or removing a restriction such as upgrading from an automatic transmission restriction or adding an endorsement, such as tanker endorsement or doubles/triples endorsement.

CLP fees

Before you get a Commercial Driver's License in Nevada, you need to get a Commercial Learner Permit. The CLP will enable you to practice driving a commercial vehicle with a qualified licensed CDL holder. It is also a major step toward getting your full CDL. Here's a breakdown of the associated fees:

• Commercial Learner Permit: $57.25

This is the fee charged for the issuance of the CLP, which is valid for as long as 180 days. Within this period, you will get enough time to acquire practical driving experience and prepare for the skills tests.

• Completion of Learner Permit: $57.25

After having successfully passed the skills test, this is the charge applied to upgrade your CLP to a full CDL. This ensures that your license is duly converted for operating commercial vehicles independently.

Training fee

Effective February 7, 2022, all new CDL applicants, as well as those drivers upgrading their CDL or adding certain endorsements, are required to undergo the training known as Entry-Level Driver Training - ELDT.  It is a federal requirement that aims to ensure all new drivers are trained to meet minimum standards of safety and competency. It includes both theoretical training and behind-the-wheel instruction. It must be done through a training provider registered with FMCSA. [caption id="attachment_6363" align="aligncenter" width="800"] Training fee[/caption] These programs in Nevada usually range from $3,000 to $8,000, depending on the school, the length of the program, and the type of training provided such as Class A, Class B, or endorsements like doubles/triples or passenger.

Medical examination fee

A very important aspect of getting a Commercial Driver's License in Nevada is the Department of Transportation medical examination, which certifies you to the physical and mental health standards to operate a commercial vehicle safely. The cost of a DOT physical generally ranges from $75 to $150, depending on the provider. Several clinics and certified medical examiners offer competitive rates; therefore, it is worth checking several options in your area.

Additional fees

Renewal fee

Renewal of a Commercial Driver's License in Nevada has some associated fees, depending on the period of renewal and whether testing is required. Here's a breakdown of the costs:

• Renewal that requires knowledge tests only or no tests (8 years): $111.25

This is the fee you would pay to renew a CDL for an 8-year period, provided you are taking only the knowledge tests or no test at all. It's the common option for those maintaining their license without significant changes.

• Renewal that requires knowledge tests only or no tests (4 years): $57.25

For those who would want a shorter renewal period or in cases where a 4-year license is to be issued, this fee is meant for renewal with limited testing.

• Renewal that requires knowledge and skills tests (8 years): $141.25

If your renewal requires both knowledge and skills testing, this fee applies for 8 years license. This may be required if your license has lapsed, or if there are significant changes in your CDL classification.

• Renewal that requires knowledge and skills tests (4 years): $87.25

For a 4-year renewal that includes knowledge and skills testing, this fee includes the shorter-term licensing option.

Add CDL endorsement

Obtaining endorsements for your CDL is an added way of expanding your qualifications and your eligibility to operate certain more specialized commercial vehicles. Common endorsements are H endorsement, T endorsement, S endorsement, P endorsement, N endorsement, and X endorsement.

• Fee per endorsement: $14.
• Photo fee: $3.25.

When you apply for an endorsement on your CDL, you will have to pay an additional photo fee of $3.25 to have a current photo reflecting your endorsement changes on your license.

CDL Duplicate

This fee applies when you need to replace your CDL due to loss, theft, or damage. The process is relatively straightforward and involves submitting a request to the Nevada Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) and paying the duplicate fee.

• Fee for duplicate CDL: $22.25

Some situations may require you to identify yourself and prove your residency with documentation to obtain a duplicate license. You may be required to provide a police report as part of the process in cases where your CDL has been stolen.

TSA background check for Hazardous Materials endorsement fee

[caption id="attachment_6365" align="aligncenter" width="800"] TSA background check for Hazardous Materials endorsement fee[/caption] One of the primary requirements for adding a HazMat endorsement to a CDL in Nevada is a background check through the Transportation Security Administration-TSA. This is an assurance that people who are allowed to transport hazardous materials are checked well enough for security purposes. The TSA background check itself costs about $86.50 and is in addition to any testing fees for the HazMat endorsement. This will help cover the administrative fees in processing your background and determining your eligibility.

Changing information fee

If you need to change the information on your CDL in Nevada, there is a specific fee for each type of change. The following prices apply according to what you are changing:

• Change of address only: $3.25

This fee is for updating your residential or mailing address on your CDL. It is pretty simple and easy to keep your license updated with your latest location.

• Change of information (other than address): $12.25

This is paid when you have to change other information not mentioned on your CDL, which includes any changes of names due to marital or other legal reasons. Additional paperwork may be required to go with the request, such as court orders, marriage records, or similar documents.

FAQs

1. How much does CDL training cost in Nevada?

In general, CDL training program fees in Nevada range from about $3,000 to $8,000, depending on a variety of factors including school, Class A or B licensure training, endorsement type(s), and the length of the class time. Some programs may include financing options, scholarships, and payment plans. Further, some trucking companies may offer sponsorships or tuition reimbursement in lieu of you agreeing to drive for them upon completion of your CDL.

2. How much does CDL school cost in Nevada?

The cost of attending a truck driving school in Nevada usually costs in the range of $4,000 to $7,000. This depends on their reputation, the length of the program, or if they offer specialized training or endorsements. You can expect a comprehensive CDL school to provide you with comprehensive training, both theoretical and practical driving hours, that will get you ready for the CDL tests.

Final thoughts

Knowing the fees that come with acquiring and maintaining a CDL license in Nevada will help you plan your budget and make the process of pursuing a commercial driving career smoother. From application and training fees to medical examination and endorsement fees, being well-informed helps you avoid unexpected expenses. Already know how much is a CDL license in Nevada? Start your journey now and take the very first step toward licensure to launch new opportunities in the trucking industry.