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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.

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What is the Cost to Get a CDL License in 2025?

The cost to obtain a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) in 2025 varies by state, CDL type, and training program. On average, the CDL license cost ranges from 1,500to1,500 to 8,000, covering training fees, written and skills test fees, and licensing fees. Additional costs include medical exams and specific vehicle endorsements.
CDL Fees and Costs
 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.

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The Different Components

The CDL license cost hinges on several factors. Let’s dissect the typical expenses:
State-specific fees for CDL licensing include application fees, knowledge test fees, road test (also known as the CDL skills test), and license issuance. These fees are a crucial part of how much a CDL costs. For exact commercial driver license fees, consult your local DMV.
A DOT physical examination is mandatory for CDL aspirants, including new drivers. Costs vary by provider and location, contributing to the overall CDL license cost.
CDL training schools, the most substantial expense for many, can range from 3,000toover3,000 to over 10,000, depending on the program’s comprehensiveness. This is where new drivers gain the necessary CDL skills and is a significant factor in how much it costs to get a CDL.
Endorsements like HazMat (hazardous materials), School Bus, or tank vehicles come with extra testing and fees.
Consider extra costs like study materials, license renewals, background checks for specific endorsements, and other state-specific fees that add to how much a CDL costs.

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State-Specific Information

StateCDL Class A feeCLP 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

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Breakdown

  1. CDL Training School CDL training schools offer programs for written and practical CDL exam preparation. Costs vary by school and program duration, typically between 3,000and3,000 and 7,000.
  2. 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 1,500to1,500 to 5,000. For affordable ELDT theory, check out Driving-Tests.org’s FMCSA-licensed courses with Pass Guarantee.
  3. State License Tests State fees for obtaining a CDL generally fall between 50and50 and 200, covering both written and practical CDL test costs.
  4. Endorsement Fees Additional endorsements on your CDL, depending on your type of motor vehicle, can cost 5to5 to 50 each.
  5. Medical Exam A necessary medical exam for CDL eligibility typically costs between 50and50 and 150.
  6. Additional Costs Additional expenses may include study materials, courses, and potentially required drug/alcohol testing.

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Tips for Budgeting

While acquiring a CDL is an investment, these strategies can help minimize costs:
Start with a detailed budget plan, including all fees, training costs, and miscellaneous expenses.
Investigate CDL training programs for financing options, success rates, and overall value.
Consider apprenticeships or on-the-job training programs, which can be more cost-effective or even free.
Some trucking companies offer CDL training funding in exchange for a commitment to work post-licensing.
Seek out grants, scholarships, or workforce training funds available for commercial driver training.
Explore potential tax deductions for CDL-related expenses required by your employer or the law.
Thoroughly prepare for exams with practice tests, study groups, or tutors to pass on the first attempt.

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Common Questions

Obtaining a CDL varies in time, from a month to several months, depending on the training program and individual circumstances.
While not mandatory, CDL schools are beneficial for exam preparation and are often preferred by employers.
Completing the entire CDL process online isn’t possible. While you can prepare for the CLP (Commercial Learner’s Permit) independently, practical exams and certain written tests require in-person attendance.
Minimum age for driving commercial vehicles intrastate is usually 18, while interstate requires at least 21 years.
Financial aid options include program-specific financing, payment plans, and possibly federal/state aid.
CDL eligibility with a criminal record depends on state laws and the nature of the offense.
Drug and alcohol testing is mandatory for all CDL applicants/truck drivers, with ongoing testing possibly required by employers.
Corrective lens wearers can obtain a CDL if their vision meets commercial driving standards.

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