If you’re considering a career in commercial driving, one of the first things you’ll need is a commercial driver’s license, or CDL. The cost of obtaining a CDL can vary depending on several factors, including the state you’re in, the type of license you need, and whether or not you choose to attend a CDL training school. In this article, we’ll take an in-depth look at the costs associated with obtaining a CDL.
Before we dive into the details of CDL costs, let’s take a quick look at what a CDL is and why it’s required. A CDL is a special license that allows you to operate a commercial vehicle, such as a semi-truck or bus. In order to obtain a CDL, you must first pass a series of written and practical exams that test your knowledge and skills as a commercial driver.
One option for obtaining a CDL is to attend a CDL training school. These schools offer specialized training programs that can help prepare you for the written and practical exams required to obtain your CDL. The cost of attending a CDL training school can vary widely depending on the school you choose and the length of the program. In general, you can expect to pay anywhere from $3,000 to $7,000 for a CDL training program.
Introduced in February 2022, the federal ELDT certification requirement aims to standardize the training process for entry-level drivers seeking to obtain a CDL license. This requirement applies to new drivers seeking a Class A or Class B CDL, or an endorsement for hazardous materials, passenger transport, or school bus operation.
The cost of ELDT certification will depend on the type of training program you choose, as well as the state you’re in. However, you can generally expect to pay anywhere from $1,500 to $5,000 for an ELDT training program that will include both theory and practical behind-the-wheel certification. The cost of ELDT certification includes the cost of the training program, as well as the cost of the written and practical exams required to obtain the certification. You can obtain ELDT theory and ELDT BTW certifications from different provider, which would save you a lot. Driving-Tests.org is an official FMCSA-licensed ELDT theory certification provider, with online programs starting at just $69. Consider obtaining your ELDT theory with one of our courses with Pass Guarantee.
It’s important to note that ELDT certification is a separate requirement from CDL training and certification. If you’re a new driver seeking to obtain your CDL, you’ll need to complete both the ELDT certification and the CDL training and certification processes.
In addition to the cost of CDL training, you’ll also need to pay various fees to obtain your actual CDL license. The fees associated with obtaining a CDL can vary by state, but in general, you can expect to pay between $50 and $200 for your license. This fee usually covers the cost of both the written and practical exams required to obtain your CDL.
Depending on the type of commercial vehicle you plan to drive, you may also need to obtain additional endorsements on your CDL. For example, if you plan to drive a tanker truck, you’ll need to obtain a tanker endorsement. Endorsement fees can vary depending on the type of endorsement you need, but generally, you can expect to pay between $5 and $50 per endorsement.
Another cost to consider when obtaining your CDL is the cost of a medical exam. In order to obtain your CDL, you’ll need to pass a medical exam that ensures you’re physically fit to operate a commercial vehicle. The cost of this exam can vary depending on where you go, but in general, you can expect to pay between $50 and $150 for a CDL medical exam.
In addition to the costs outlined above, there may be additional costs associated with obtaining your CDL. For example, you may need to purchase study materials or take additional courses to prepare for your exams. Additionally, some employers may require you to undergo drug and alcohol testing, which can also add to your overall costs.
While obtaining a CDL can be a significant investment, there are several ways to reduce the overall cost. Here are some tips to consider:
Obtaining a CDL is an important step towards a career in commercial driving, but it’s important to be aware of the costs associated with the process. In general, you can expect to pay anywhere from $3,000 to $7,000 for a CDL training program, as well as various fees for your license and any endorsements you may need. Additionally, there may be additional costs associated with medical exams, study materials, and drug and alcohol testing.
