Getting a CDL in Nebraska is the key to unlocking a rewarding career in the Nebraska trucking industry, but this journey does come with a price tag. So, how much does it cost to get a CDL in Nebraska? The total cost can range from $4,500 to $7,000, covering training programs, permits, testing, licensing, and other related costs. Don’t feel overwhelmed, as we have mapped it all out for you! In this post, we break down all associated costs for Nebraska CDL, along with helpful notes for a smooth and affordable process. Scroll down for more!
How much does it cost to get a CDL in Nebraska?
Obtaining a CDL in Nebraska costs from $4,500 to $7,000, covering several associated expenses. Here is the estimate for the total amount you should plan for:
| Expenses | Cost |
| DOT medical examination | $50 – $200 |
| CLP | $15 |
| CDL training | $4,000 – $6,000 |
| Physical CDL license | $16 – $60 |
| License replacement | $16 for CDL and $15 for CLP |
| License change of class, endorsement, or restriction | $15 |
| Hazmat TSA background check | $80 – $90 |
| Vehicle rental for the skills test | $100 – $300 |
| Study materials | $0 – $100 |
The total cost varies between individuals based on factors such as training program variation, license and endorsement choice, and much more. Here is a detailed cost breakdown you should expect:
Medical examination cost
First, if you select a non-expected driving operation, you must undergo the pre-application clearance by passing a DOT medical examination to get your CDL, proving your physical fitness to handle a commercial vehicle.
- Cost: $50 to $200 based on your chosen provider and medical history.
- Valid for 24 months
Saving tip: Plan to complete your CDL process within the MEC validity period to avoid re-testing or re-certification expenses.
Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) fee
A CLP permits you to practice driving commercial vehicles under supervision before taking the CDL skills test. A small cost of $15 is attached to the original CLP in Nebraska. Make sure you schedule and complete your CDL skills test within the validity period of CLP to avoid additional renewal fees.
CDL training cost
The highest cost associated with getting a CDL is usually the training program. The cost of training will depend on the length of the program, the class of CDL, and the reputation of the school.
- Cost: Range from $4,000 to $6,000
- Factors to consider:
- Length of program: Smaller, more accelerated programs are usually more expensive.
- Class type: Class A CDL training covers a wider scope and usually costs more in comparison to Class B and C.
- School quality: An accredited school with more qualified instructors will generally be more expensive.
- Money-saving tip: Some Nebraska trucking companies provide tuition reimbursement as part of their paid CDL training programs. These programs cover training costs in exchange for a driving commitment after getting your license. Consider taking a paid training to save your pocket.
Physical CDL license fees
Nebraska offers different options for CDL license validity, so you can choose what suits your career objectives. Each type of duration comes with different costs as shown in the table below:
| License validity | Fee | Security surcharge | Total |
| Valid for 5 years | $55.00 | $5.00 | $60.00 |
| Valid for more than 3 years but not more than 4 | $44.00 | $5.00 | $49.00 |
| Valid for more than 2 years but not more than 3 | $33.00 | $5.00 | $38.00 |
| Valid for more than 1 year but not more than 2 | $22.00 | $5.00 | $27.00 |
| Valid for 1 year or less | $11.00 | $5.00 | $16.00 |
Other expenses
In addition to the primary costs of obtaining your CDL in Nebraska, there are some supplemental expenditures you may encounter during the process. These costs are often situational but can add up, so you will want to plan for them in advance:
- Hazardous materials endorsement TSA background check: If you plan to transport hazardous materials, you have to pass a TSA background check with a cost of $80 – $90.
- License replacement: for replacing lost, stolen, or damaged license.
- CDL: $16
- CLP: $15
- Change of CLP/CDL class, endorsement, or restriction: If you want to upgrade your class, add on an endorsement, or maybe even remove some restriction from your license, you have to pay $15.
- Vehicle rental for skills test: If you cannot provide a commercial vehicle for your skills test, then you may have to rent one for $100 to $300.
- Study materials and practice tests: You might have to pay $50 to $100 for study materials such as manual or practice tests. But with CDL Prep, you can access valuable practice tests and the official Nebraska CDL manual with zero costs.
Take Nebraska CDL practice tests now
FAQs
1. How much does CDL school cost in Nebraska?
The average cost for CDL schools in Nebraska ranges from $4,000 to $6,000. This depends on several factors, such as the program length, the class of the license, and the reputation of the school. Paid CDL training programs available from Nebraska trucking companies can significantly reduce these costs or even be free of any charge in return for driving commitment.
2. How much does a CDL cost in Nebraska?The total cost of obtaining a CDL in Nebraska varies from one individual to another, but an estimated breakdown is as follows:
- DOT medical test: $50 to $200
- CDL training: $4,000 to $6,000
- License: $16 to $60 depending on license validity
- Additional costs: $80 to $300.
On average, it is estimated that the total costs will range from $4,500 to $7,000.
Final thought
The answer to the question “How much does it cost to get a CDL in Nebraska” varies, depending on your training, endorsements, and extra costs. Generally, it costs from $4,500 to $7,000, however, programs for paid CDL training and free study materials greatly help reduce the financial burden. With some planning and budgeting, you can kickstart your trucking career more affordably.
