Obtaining a Commercial Driver’s License in Massachusetts is a huge leap toward a successful career in trucking or transportation. However, one of the most frequently asked questions by aspiring drivers is, “How much does it cost to get a CDL in Massachusetts?” It all depends on a number of factors that involve application fees, training programs, and other related expenses. But generally, you can expect to pay from $3,000 to $10,000. In this article, we will break down the total costs you can expect and help you plan your journey toward becoming a licensed commercial driver.
How much does it cost to get a CDL in Massachusetts?
In Massachusetts, the overall cost for a CDL ranges from $3000 to $10,000, depending on several factors. The exact total depends on your path and whether you add qualifications, endorsements, or training. With these costs in mind, you can easily plan your way to getting a CDL.
| Type of fee | Total |
|---|---|
| Medical examination fee | $75-$150 |
| Commercial Learner’s Permit fee | $30 |
| Training fee | $1,500-$8,000 |
| Skills tests fee | $35 |
| Obtaining physical CDL fee | $75 |
| Add endorsement | $10 |
| Renewal fee | $75 |
| Out-of-State license conversion fee | $140 |
| TSA background check fee | $86.50 |
Medical examination fee
Medical examination fee is the fee charged for a medical examination by the Department of Transportation, DOT, which is a necessity to get a CDL. The cost for a medical exam may be provided by different health providers at a varying fee, usually ranging from $75 to $150.
Commercial Learner’s Permit fee
The Massachusetts permit application fee of $30 is the first step in getting a Commercial Driver’s License. This fee will encompass all the integral components of the process of getting started on your road to becoming a licensed commercial driver, including administrative and testing requirements.
Following application, you will also be required to pass a number of written knowledge tests. The tests are designed to show you have knowledge of rules, regulations, and safety standards for commercial driving.
Take the Massachusetts CDL practice test here!
Training fee
Beginning February 7, 2022, all new applicants for a CDL had to receive training with a school or provider on the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration FMCSA Training Provider Registry in accordance with the Entry-Level Driver Training rule.
Most commercial truck driver programs will range between 1,500 to 8,000 dollars based upon the school attended, how long the program is, and what may be included within the tuition cost.
Skills tests fee
The skills tests fee in Massachusetts is $35, covers the cost to schedule and take the necessary driving test for the required CDL in Massachusetts. This test is the last step in the licensing process, specifically designed to assess whether a driver can safely operate his or her commercial vehicle competently.
Important note: If you fail the skills tests, you might have to pay the fee again when you reschedule and take the test again. Be sure to be fully prepared by practicing with your CDL learner’s permit and taking any required training before you schedule the test.
Obtaining physical CDL fee
The 5-year CDL license fee of $75 is the cost for your official CDL upon successful completion of all that is required. This is the fee for any CDL class, A, B, or C, including the actual cost of license issuance, which is valid for five years.
Additional fees
Depending on your specific situation, there may be additional fees in getting or keeping a CDL in Massachusetts. These include added fees for extra services, re-testing, and special requirements, such as adding endorsements and late renewals. Knowing these possible added costs will help you better plan and make the licensing process less stressful.
Add CDL endorsement
A CDL endorsement gives you permission to operate particular types of commercial vehicles or carry special cargo, like hazardous materials, passengers, or tankers.
The fee is $10 for the endorsement test if it’s taken on the same day as the CDL road test or at any other time a required CDL process is taken. It is $30 on any other day to include additional administrative processing.
CDL renewal fee
There is a fee for renewal of a CDL in Massachusetts. A renewal fee is $75 and includes the same fee as a new 5-year CDL. It covers the administrative cost to process your renewal application and to issue a new license in its place.
Out-of-State license conversion fee
The fee for an out-of-state license conversion is $140 in Massachusetts. If you have a valid CDL issued by another state, this license must be converted to a Massachusetts CDL. You must convert your out-of-state CDL if you become a resident of Massachusetts and you will be operating commercial vehicles using your CDL.
TSA background check for Hazardous Materials endorsement fee
The TSA charges $86.50 for the background check required for a HazMat endorsement on your CDL. This fee pays for the security screening required by federal law through the Transportation Security Administration.
FAQs
1. How much is a CDL license in Massachusetts?
The fee for a CDL in Massachusetts is $75. This also includes the issuance of the license, which is valid for five years. This license permits the operation of commercial vehicles in accordance with the CDL class and endorsements.
2. How much does CDL school cost in MA?
These are estimated costs for attending a CDL training school in Massachusetts and can range from $1,500 to $8,000, depending on the school, the length of the program, and if the program is a Class A or B. Most programs offer both in-class instruction and behind-the-wheel training to meet the federal requirements for ELDT. This will help drivers to study and pass their tests for their CDL. Payment plans or employer-sponsored programs may also be available for financial assistance.
3. How much is a CDL permit in MA?
The fee charged for a CDL learner permit in Massachusetts is $30; this includes the application and written knowledge tests that you should take to qualify for a permit. The learner’s permit is valid for some period and allows you to practice driving a commercial vehicle accompanied by a licensed CDL holder, preparing you for the road test.
Final thoughts
A CDL in Massachusetts simply means an investment in your future for lucrative opportunities in the transport industry. While the overall cost is from $3,000 to $10,000, it might differ based on many variables, such as training programs, endorsements, and medical tests. Now you got the answer of how much does it cost to get a CDL in Massachusetts and ready for the next step. Don’t wait anymore; take the first step toward your new career today!
