Are you searching for “How much does it cost to get a CDL license in Tennessee?” You are in the right place! The process of getting a CDL is multi-stepped, with each step bearing a different fee. However, you can expect to pay $3,000 to $9,000 in total. From the fee of training for the CDL to application, medical exams, skills tests, and any endorsements you may need, the expenses can add up. All of these fees are broken down in detail below, hence you know what to expect and can properly plan your trip toward licensure as a commercial driver in Tennessee. Get the complete information on fees for a first application, renewal, and more here.
How much does it cost to get a CDL license in Tennessee?
The average fee to get a CDL in Tennessee ranges from $3,000 to $9,000, based on class, endorsement needs, and other additional fees like medical examination tests or skills test fees. The details you can expect are listed below.
Medical examination fee
The medical examination will ensure that the commercial driver is physically and medically fit to drive big vehicles safely, according to federal regulations set by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration.
The price for a DOT physical examination can generally be estimated between $75 and $150, depending on the location and the provider. Some clinics or providers may add extra charges for different tests or specific certifications, which include vision, urinalysis, or blood pressure testing.
CDL class fee
When a driver satisfies the requirements for a Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) and successfully completes the CDL skills test, they are eligible for a full Commercial Driver’s License (CDL). Fees in Tennessee are different per class:
- Class A License: The fee for this license amounts to $70, comprising a $6 application fee and an $8 annual fee valid for 8 years.
- Class B or Class C License: The total fee is $62, which includes an annual fee of $7 valid for 8 years, and a $6 application fee.
Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) fee
The CLP is the first step to getting a Commercial Driver License in Tennessee. The fee for a CLP is based on the class of permit for which you are applying.
- Class A Permit: The total fee is $14, including an $8 annual fee, valid for one year, plus a $6 application fee.
- Class B or Class C Permit: The fee is a total of $13, with a $7 annual fee for one year and a $6 application fee.
The CLP allows new commercial drivers to start training and driving a commercial vehicle under the supervision of a qualified CDL holder on site. It is valid for one year but must be held no less than 14 days before taking the CDL skills test.
Endorsements fee
Endorsements are special certifications added to a CDL that allow drivers to operate particular types of vehicles or carry certain types of cargo. In Tennessee, each one of these endorsements has its cost and requirements. Here are some of the common CDL endorsements and their fees:
- General endorsements (e.g., Tanker, Passenger, Doubles/Triples, Hazmat): The fee for each endorsement is $8.50, which consists of a $2.50 endorsement fee and an application fee of $6.
- School bus endorsement: This endorsement shall be offered for an amount of $26.00, comprising a $20.00 endorsement fee and an application fee of $6.00, reflecting specialized training and requirements in the safe transportation of school-aged passengers.
Training fee
The most critical factor for acquiring a CDL is training since it allows the drivers to gain relevant competencies that may enable them to deal with commercial vehicles in safety-critical environments. The cost of getting CDL training in Tennessee depends on several factors: Training provider, program length, and type of license, and varies from one institute to another.
On average, the price of such programs may range between $1,500 to $8,000. More comprehensive courses for Class A are usually more expensive compared to Class B and Class C courses.
Skills tests fee
The skills test will determine whether the applicant can safely operate a commercial motor vehicle. There is a $50 fee for a skills test; this covers all three parts of this test:
- Pre-trip inspection.
- Basic vehicle control.
- On-road driving test.
There may be additional fees if the skills test is provided by a third-party testing provider beyond what is required by the state at $50. Costs vary by provider. Moreover, any applicant who fails any part of the skills test will be required to retake the section failed and pay the test fee again.
Additional fee
Apart from the standard fees that come with the process of obtaining CDL in Tennessee, there are a few other extra charges, depending on the case. Knowing all these possible costs in advance can save you from being caught off guard by added costs during the entire licensing process.
Duplicate fee
If your CDL or CLP is lost, stolen or destroyed, you may obtain a duplicate from the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security. The fee for a duplicate CDL or CLP depends on how many have been issued to you:
1st duplicate:
- The first duplicate fee is $12.00.
- This covers the first replacement of a lost, stolen, or damaged license or permit.
2nd or subsequent duplicate:
- For a second or subsequent duplicate, one pays $16.00.
- This higher fee reflects the administrative cost of multiple replacements.
TSA background check for Hazardous Materials endorsement fee
You are required to have a background check through the TSA to obtain a HazMat endorsement on your CDL. This process helps ensure that those who will be transporting hazardous materials meet federal security standards.
The fee for a TSA background check in Tennessee costs a total of $86.50, which includes the following:
- Application processing fee: A fee is applied for the paperwork processing involved.
- Fingerprinting fee: The payment is needed to confirm the applicant’s identity and his criminal record.
- Security Threat Assessment: STA involves the reviewing of an applicant’s records as a prerequisite in regard to holding the HazMat endorsement.
CDL renewal fee
In Tennessee, the fee for renewing a CDL is based on the class of the CDL and the duration of renewal. The renewal process gives the holder of a CDL the opportunity to continue driving and keeps the license valid to operate a commercial motor vehicle.
Class A CDL renewal:
- The fee to renew a Class A CDL is $70.
- This fee provides for an 8-year renewal, which includes an $8 per year fee, plus a $6 application fee.
Class B or Class C CDL renewal:
- The fee to renew a Class B or Class C CDL is $62.
- This fee includes a $7 per year fee, plus a $6 application fee.
Important note: A valid DOT medical card is required to renew. If the medical card has expired or is due to expire the driver will be required to have a new medical exam before re-issuance of the CDL. And its cost ranges from $75 to $150.
Out-of-state license conversion fee
If you have a valid CDL issued by another state and want to transfer it to Tennessee, then you need to go through an out-of-state license conversion. It will help you to replace your out-of-state CDL with a Tennessee CDL so that you can continue operating a commercial motor vehicle in the state legally.
The fee to convert an out-of-state CDL to a Tennessee CDL is $8. The fee covers:
- Application fee: $6.
- $2.00 per year for the 8-year validity period of the CDL.
FAQs
1. Can I get a CDL license for free in Tennessee?
No, you cannot get a free CDL license in Tennessee. There are some CDL application fees, medical examination fees, and skills test fees, and also training costs. Perhaps you will be able to find scholarships or employer-sponsored programs or even some financial aid, but you are going to have to pay something. Costs will vary depending on your particular circumstances, but you’ll need to make training and licensing part of your planning.
2. How much is CDL school in Tennessee?
In general, the cost of CDL school in Tennessee can range from $1,500 to $8,000, depending on which type of training you decide to pursue. It will depend on the class of your CDL, the length of the program, and the school that you decide upon. Some of them may provide financing, and some employers may pay the training costs in return for an agreement to drive for them after having your CDL. Researching different schools and programs is vital to finding one that suits your budget and needs.
Final thoughts
How much does it cost to get a CDL license in Tennessee, at the end, is a question that includes several fees added together depending on your situation. Costs for training, application to medical exams and skills tests could be all over the board and run from $3,000 to $9,000. Knowing these in advance will allow you to be more financially prepared when you begin your application process for your CDL. No matter if it’s your first time applying or a renewal of the license, it would help ensure that your road to becoming a licensed commercial driver in Tennessee is much easier and smoother.
