How Much Does a CDL License Cost in 2024? The True Cost of a CDL
Discover the true costs of acquiring a CDL, including training fees, testing charges, and more. Plan your budget effectively for a career in commercial driving.
Written by Andrei Zakhareuski. With over 16 years of expertise, Andrei leads Driving-Tests.org, a top online resource for driver education. His leadership has established vital partnerships with over 2,600 libraries, educational bodies, and state agencies.
What is the Cost to Get a CDL License in 2024?
The cost to obtain a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) in 2024 varies by state, CDL type, and training program. On average, the CDL license cost ranges from $1,500 to $8,000, covering training fees, written and skills test fees, and licensing fees. Additional costs include medical exams and specific vehicle endorsements.
Understanding the cost of obtaining a CDL is more than just knowing the fees. It encompasses a series of steps each aspirant must take. Begin by learning what a CDL entails through our CDL Definition guide. Ensure you meet all the Requirements & Eligibility, familiarize yourself with the Application Process, and make good use of available Study Materials and Practice Tests. Finally, understand the specific CDL Classifications to determine which is relevant to your career path.
The Different Components
The CDL license cost hinges on several factors. Let’s dissect the typical expenses:
State-Specific Information
| State | CDL Class A fee | CLP fee |
|---|---|---|
| Alabama | $66.25 | $36.25 |
| Alaska | $120 | $15 |
| Arizona | $25 | $15 |
| Arkansas | $42 | $50 |
| California | $85 | $39 |
| Colorado | $17.08 | $18.52 |
| Connecticut | $70 | $20 |
| Delaware | $48 | $0 |
| D.C. | $117 | $78 |
| Florida | $75 | $0 |
| Georgia | $32 | $10 |
| Hawaii | $5 | $30 |
| Idaho | $40 | $29 |
| Illinois | $60 | $50 |
| Indiana | $35 | $17 |
| Iowa | $8 | $12 |
| Kansas | $26 | $13 |
| Kentucky | $45 | $14 |
| Louisiana | $61.50 | $20.25 |
| Maine | $59 | $0 |
| Maryland | $50 | $90 |
| Massachusetts | $75 | $30 |
| Michigan | $25 | $0 |
| Minnesota | $50.25 | $10.50 |
| Mississippi | $55 | $16 |
| Missouri | $26 | $0 |
| Montana | $41.72 | $0 |
| Nebraska | $60 | $15 |
| Nevada | $141.25 | $57.25 |
| New Hampshire | $60 | $20 |
| New Jersey | $42 | $125 |
| New Mexico | $18 | $10 |
| New York | $164.50 | $10 |
| North Carolina | $21.50 | $21.50 |
| North Dakota | $15 | $15 |
| Ohio | $43.50 | $28.50 |
| Oklahoma | $56.50 | $0 |
| Oregon | $75 | $23 |
| Pennsylvania | $86.50 | $0 |
| Rhode Island | $92.50 | $72.50 |
| South Carolina | $25 | $2.50 |
| South Dakota | $33 | $28 |
| Tennessee | $70 | $14 |
| Texas | $97 | $25 |
| Utah | $52 | $19 |
| Vermont | $60 | $15 |
| Virginia | $64 | $3 |
| Washington | $27 | $40 |
| West Virginia | $26.25 | $7.50 |
| Wisconsin | $74 | $30 |
| Wyoming | $55 | $45 |
Breakdown
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CDL Training School
CDL training schools offer programs for written and practical CDL exam preparation. Costs vary by school and program duration, typically between $3,000 and $7,000. -
Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) Certification
ELDT certification, mandatory since February 2022 for new Class A or Class B CDL seekers, involves both theory and practical training. Costs range from $1,500 to $5,000. For affordable ELDT theory, check out Driving-Tests.org’s FMCSA-licensed courses with Pass Guarantee. -
State License Tests
State fees for obtaining a CDL generally fall between $50 and $200, covering both written and practical CDL test costs. -
Endorsement Fees
Additional endorsements on your CDL, depending on your type of motor vehicle, can cost $5 to $50 each. -
Medical Exam
A necessary medical exam for CDL eligibility typically costs between $50 and $150. -
Additional Costs
Additional expenses may include study materials, courses, and potentially required drug/alcohol testing.
Tips for Budgeting
While acquiring a CDL is an investment, these strategies can help minimize costs:
Common Questions
Secure your CDL with confidence!
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