CDL License

As a truck driver, you know that having a CDL license is essential to your career. But what you may not know is how much it costs to get one. In this blog post, we’ll break down the cost of a CDL license so you can be prepared when it’s time to renew or upgrade your license.

Whether you’re looking to save money or want to be informed, read on for everything you need to know about the cost of a CDL license.

Types of CDL Licenses

There are three types of CDL licenses: Class A, Class B, and Class C. Class A licenses are for drivers who operate vehicles with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 26,001 pounds or more.

Class B licenses are for drivers who operate vehicles with a GVWR of 26,001 pounds or more but less than 36,000 pounds. And Class C licenses are for drivers who use vehicles that do not fall into the Class A or Class B category.

CDL Class A License

A Class A CDL license allows you to drive any vehicle with a trailer with a GVW (Gross Vehicle Weight) of 26,001 or more. You can also tow anything behind the vehicle as long as it does not exceed 10,000 pounds.

Some state laws allow a driver that has a class A CDL to use any vehicle which requires either the class B or the class C CDL. So you’ve got plenty of opportunities in a wide range of industries. The Class A CDL is available for drivers with a minimum age of 21 years.

CDL Class B License

With a Class B CDL license, you can drive any vehicle with a gross vehicle weight rating of 26,001 or more pounds, as well as any trailer weighing 10,000 pounds or less.

You can also operate vehicles that are designed to carry 16 or more passengers, including the driver.

CDL Class C License

A Class C CDL license allows you to drive a single vehicle with a gross vehicle weight rating of fewer than 26,001 pounds. This includes most types of sedans, vans, and small trucks. It’s a versatile license that can be used for many different types of driving jobs.

You could find work as a driver for a car rental company or drive a small truck for a local delivery service. Also, you can use a Class C CDL to transport hazardous materials in specific quantities.

How much does it cost to get a CDL license?

The cost of a CDL license is typically between $100 and $500. The price may be higher in some states and may be lower in other states. In addition to the license fee, there may also be a fee for taking the CDL test.

To get a CDL license, you must first pass a written test on the rules of the road and on vehicle safety. You must also pass a driving test. A new federal law states that all states must require new CDL drivers to take a training course before they can take the written test or the driving test.

Truck Driving School Cost and Tuition Cost

It’s essential to prepare to pass the road test. Generally, the greatest preparations are done at school. Truck driving classes’ costs and fees vary across institutions. Nevertheless, it is safe to say that tuition costs to drive trucks can cost anywhere from $200 to $6,000.

A few additional costs may be required prior to enrolling. The best schools offer a wide variety of courses and training to students not simply passing CDL, but also for the jobs of truck drivers and other drivers.

Truck driving career opportunities

It is essential that we consider what we see. A Class A CDL truck driver earns about $45,000 annually, and team members make about $82,000 annually. It is important to know that some universities provide career placement services that may be useful if you want to travel more quickly.

Keep in mind that it can be difficult for new drivers to find jobs due to liability related to the new driver.

Top Truck Driving Schools

There are a lot of great truck driving schools out there, but the one that stands out to me is the Professional Truck Driver Institute. They offer a wide range of programs and services, and they have an excellent reputation in the trucking industry.

Another school that I would look into is the American Trucking Association’s School of Logistics. They have a great program that prepares students for real-world driving scenarios. And lastly, I would suggest checking out the National Commercial Driver’s License School. They offer a variety of programs and services, and they are dedicated to providing students with the best possible education.

Private CDL school training can come in at a high tuition cost

The possibility to attend private truck driving schools may be something you’re looking into. These schools are offered in price ranges that can reach as much as $10,000. Remember, trucking classes for private people are for businesses.

They charge an expensive fee for such classes. However, higher fees are often not a prerequisite for more effective training. Some private school training programs have fewer seats available to trainees. It is typical in schools that students take longer classes to learn about driving. Learning to operate large machinery requires practical driving experience.

Take Advantage of Financial Assistance

Many truck driving schools offer financial assistance to help cover the costs of tuition and other associated expenses. Many CDLs provide scholarships and other benefits that students receive in return.

Some schools may also offer payment plans to make it easier for students to afford their education. Be sure to check with the school you’re interested in to see what kind of financial assistance they offer.

Tuition Reimbursement for Training Programs

Trucking businesses generally offer tuition reimbursement for completion of the course and commit to it. You may even see that school billing departments can assist with student enrollment. It’s great that we could be driving in a car without much expense. Before selecting a school, you should look for companies to help you prepare to work with.

CDL FAQ

How can I get my CDL without going to school?

There are a few options available to you if you want to get your CDL without going to school. One option is to find a truck driving school that offers a paid apprenticeship program.

This program will allow you to work as an apprentice for a trucking company while you attend school. You can also find a company that will sponsor your CDL training.

Another option is to find a trucking company that is willing to hire you and train you on the job. If none of these options are available to you, then your best bet is to look for jobs that don’t require a CDL and slowly save up money so that you can eventually afford to go to truck driving school.

How do I go about getting my CDL license?

Check with your state’s DMV to find out the specific requirements, but generally, you’ll need to be at least 18 years old, have a valid driver’s license, and pass a written test and road test. You may also need to provide proof of liability insurance and medical certification.

The best way to prepare for the written test is to study the commercial driver’s manual for your state. The test will likely cover topics such as vehicle inspection, pre-trip inspections, basic driving skills, hazardous materials transportation, and railroad crossing safety.

To practice for the road test, find a reputable CDL training program in your area and take some practice runs with an experienced instructor. Be sure to obey all traffic laws and wear your seat.

How long is CDL training?

The training for a CDL (commercial driver’s license) is about three weeks. It can vary depending on the state, but most programs last around 21 days.

During that time, you’ll learn about the different types of commercial vehicles, how to inspect them before and after a trip, traffic laws specific to commercial drivers, and more. You’ll also have to pass both a written exam and a practical skills test in order to earn your CDL.

How can I supplement my income while I wait for my CDL?

One great way to supplement your income while you wait to get your CDL is by driving for Lyft or Uber. Both of these companies offer flexible hours and can work well with your schedule. Plus, you can make some extra money on the side!

Do truck drivers make a lot of money?

It depends on the driver’s experience and the company they work for. Truck drivers typically make between $30,000 and $50,000 a year. However, experienced drivers can make up to $70,000 a year or more.

Drivers for larger trucking companies can make more money than those for smaller companies. In general, trucking is a good-paying job that comes with many benefits, such as paid vacation days and health insurance.

Cheapest way to get a CDL?

CDL training offered by an OTR-based company is a very inexpensive way for a person with no prior experience in the business. If you found an OTR company that provides training and development as a newbie driver, the costs of the job generally are free.

Also, it’s worth researching companies that office 100% tuition reimbursement truck driving schools.

Closing Thoughts

Depending on the state in which you reside, the cost of a CDL can vary significantly. In some cases, it may be as little as $100, while other states charge upwards of $1,000. However, the average cost is around $500 for a truck driver. Now you know how much does it cost to get a CDL license.

If you’re interested in obtaining your CDL, do your research and find out what the licensing requirements are in your state. Thanks for reading!

What CDL license are you working towards?