Understanding Louisiana CDL License Cost: Detailed Guide

Obtaining a CDL in Louisiana is your first ticket to unlock rewarding opportunities in the Louisiana trucking industry. But first, you have to invest in your license. Understanding the Louisiana CDL license cost is crucial to plan your journey without surprise. From the application fee to training and testing fees, the total cost for a Louisiana CDL ranges from $4,000 to $8,000. In this guide, we will walk you through detailed costs involved in your journey and factors contributing to the cost. Keep reading for more details on what to expect to pay. 

How much does it cost to get a CDL license in Louisiana?

The total cost of a Louisiana CDL ranges from $4,000 to $8,000, covering all possible costs you can expect to pay:

Expense Cost
DOT medical exam $50 to $150
Application fee $15 plus $0-$8 for service fee
CDL training program $4,000 to $6,000
Physical CDL license  $61.50 – $76.50
CDL endorsement  $7.5 each
License duplicate or updates $5 plus $0-$6 for service fee
Study materials $0 to $200
Vehicle rental  $100 to $250

The detailed breakdown and explanation of associated costs in getting a Louisiana CDL is as follows:

DOT medical exam

DOT medical exam
DOT medical exam

If you choose non-excepted driving, you must undergo a DOT physical check by an approved medical clinic. A Medical Examination Certificate (MEC) you receive after passing a physical exam will be submitted to prove you are physically eligible for commercial driving in Louisiana.

  • Cost: Between $50 to $150, depending on the medical professional and your medical history.
  • Validity: Maximum 24 months. You should complete the whole CDL process within this period to avoid additional expenses for re-testing.

Application fee

The Louisiana CDL application fee will be paid for processing your paperwork and initial testing requirements.

  • Cost: $15 for a 6-year valid license
  • Additional service fee: There may be an additional service fee at some service locations where you apply, but can range from $0 – $8.

CDL school fee

CDL school fee
CDL school fee

The cost of attending a CDL training program is among the highest expenses of the process. Costs will differ depending on the comprehensiveness and length of the program:

  • Cost range: $4,000 to $6,000
  • Factors affecting the price:
    • Length: Shorter and more thorough programs tend to be costlier.
    • Accreditation: Schools that are accredited will generally be more expensive since their training standards are higher.
    • Type of training: Class A CDL training tends to charge higher as it requires a broader skill set.

Money-saving tips: Louisiana trucking companies offer tuition reimbursement programs or free CDL training if you agree to drive for the company following your training. Consider enrolling in one of these programs to avoid high up-front costs. 

Physical CDL license fee

Physical CDL license fee
Physical CDL license fee

Once you have fulfilled all requirements and passed all necessary tests, you will have to pay for the actual CDL license fee. The fee covers the issuance of the physical license. 

  • Costs:
    • $61.50 for most applicants.
    • $76.50 for Orlean applicants.

Additional fees

In addition to these main fees, there are several optional or situational fees to consider:

  • CDL endorsement fee: $7.5 per endorsement.
  • License changes: Duplicate or address change is $5, plus an optional service fee up to $6.
  • Study materials: Practice tests and study guides for CDL preparation can cost from $50 to $200. However, with CDL Prep, you can save that money for your pocket as we provide free, comprehensive online resources and practice tests.

Take Louisiana CDL practice tests now!

  • Vehicle rental for skills test: If you do not have a commercial vehicle, rentals usually begin from $100 to $250.

Unlike some states, Louisiana does not require any additional charges for the CLP, knowledge tests, or skills tests. This makes it more affordable, letting the driver save resources for training and endorsements. With the high demand for CDL holders in Louisiana, this makes for a very affordable route to a great trucking career.

FAQs

1. How much does a CDL class cost in Louisiana?

The tuition of a CDL training class in Louisiana usually ranges from $4,000 to $6,000. The exact amount will be associated with factors such as the length of the program, class of CDL, and the school’s reputation. An accredited school or one offering more detailed training will be charged higher than others. 

2. How to get CDL in Louisiana for free?

You can find different ways to get a CDL for free in Louisiana, specifically:

  • Federal and state grants: Financial assistance by federal and state governments to support individuals in certain situations to achieve their CDL license and make their living.
  • Military support: You can get free CDL through the GI Bill program.
  • Paid CDL training programs through trucking companies: You can be covered up-front costs of CDL training after committing to work with a particular company after licensure.

3. How much does CDL cost in Louisiana?

The average cost for a CDL in Louisiana, including medical testing, training, and licensure fees, ranges from $4,000 to $8,000. It can vary considering various training programs, endorsements, and optional fees. If you receive financial assistance or paid CDL training, the cost will be much more affordable.

Final thoughts

Getting a CDL is an investment into your rewarding career, and getting this license in Louisiana is relatively affordable. With affordable tuition for training, no costs for the CLP, and no testing fees, the Louisiana CDL license cost is manageable for many aspiring trucking drivers. If you can plan in advance the involved expenditure and take advantage of all the available resources, you can obtain your license and start your lucrative trucking career without financial stress. 


Share This Article