Last Updated September 16, 2025
Getting a commercial driver’s license (CDL) is often the first step when starting your career in trucking. Before doing so, you need to budget in the time and money to apply for and obtain your CDL before hitting the road.
But how much you should budget for getting a CDL? This is an important question to answer to avoid being thrown off by the cost of obtaining your CDL.
Many factors influence the exact cost. With that in mind, continue reading to learn about those factors, along with the average cost of getting a CDL and the type of fees you’ll be expected to pay.
Key Takeaways
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Getting a CDL typically costs $2,500–$8,000+, with Class A licenses running higher ($5,000–$8,000) and Class B averaging $2,500–$5,000.
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CDL school tuition is the biggest cost (around $3,000–$8,000), but additional expenses like application fees, permit fees, medical exams, and test fees can add several hundred dollars more.
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Beyond tuition, you’ll pay for a CLP ($10–$50), road/written tests ($50–$200), DOT physicals ($75–$150), and endorsements ($20–$100 each).
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Despite the hefty upfront expenses, many trucking companies reimburse tuition for new company drivers.
What Is the True Cost to Get Your CDL in 2025?
On average, obtaining a CDL costs between $3,000 and $8,000. This includes your CDL training cost, CDL application fees, CDL license fees, and the CDL test cost itself.
The type of license you choose makes a difference. The Class A license cost is usually higher, since Class A programs require more instruction hours, cover larger vehicles, and include more driving tests. With this option, you should expect to pay $5,000 to $8,000 total.
The Class B program, on the other hand, costs around $2,500 to $5,000, since the vehicles are smaller and the training hours are less intensive.
Although this may seem like a significant upfront expense, truck drivers are in high demand. In 2025, the average salary for truck drivers was more than $90,000 per year. Being an owner-operator (versus a company driver) will earn you as much as $2.50 a mile or more, while company drivers earn around $0.70 per mile. With a plan in place for your future, you can easily recoup the upfront cost of obtaining your CDL.
Fees Associated With Getting a CDL
Beyond tuition, several smaller expenses add to the total CDL cost. If you’re starting a trucking company, it’s crucial to factor these fees into the equation so you can start your business on the right foot.
Initial Application Fee
When you first apply for your commercial license, you’ll need to pay CDL application fees. These are part of the upfront fees every driver must budget for, and they’re usually nonrefundable. Depending on your state, the CDL license fees tied to your initial application can range from $30 to $80.
Training School Fees
The biggest expense most drivers face is CDL school costs. Tuition covers your classroom hours, behind-the-wheel instruction, and some exam prep. On average, the cost for CDL training ranges from $3,000 to $8,000, with the average cost falling within the $5,000 to $6,000 range.
Although this might seem steep, many schools partner with carriers that reimburse part—or even all—of CDL training costs for company drivers. However, owner-operators will need to foot the entire bill, so budget carefully if you want to be self-employed.
Driving Test Fees
In addition to school tuition, you’ll need to budget for your CDL test cost. States typically charge separately for the written exam and the CDL road test cost, which can range from $50 to $200, depending on your location. These fees aren’t usually included in tuition, so be sure to factor them in when estimating the total CDL license cost.
Physical Examination Fees
Before you can get a permit or take your driving exam, you must complete a Department of Transportation (DOT) physical. While not always included in school tuition, this step adds to the overall CDL certification cost. The exam usually costs between $75 and $150. However, the upside is that this exam is also required for your driver qualification file (DQF), so it applies to multiple requirements.
Additional Endorsement Fees
If you plan to drive specialized vehicles—like those carrying hazardous materials or double trailers—you’ll need extra endorsements in addition to your standard license. These add-on credentials come with their own CDL fees, which can include background checks, fingerprinting, and exam charges. Depending on the endorsement, the CDL certification cost can increase by $20 to $100 per test.
CLP Fee
Once you pass the written test in your CDL training course, you’ll apply for a commercial learner’s permit (CLP). This permit allows you to test-drive trucks for the practical part of your course, so it’s mandatory. The cost of a CDL permit is separate from tuition and typically ranges between $10 and $50, depending on your state.
Study Materials for CDL Training (Optional)
While not mandatory, many students choose to purchase study guides, online courses, or practice tests to boost their confidence before exams. These materials can add anywhere from $20 to $200 to your overall CDL training cost. Although optional, they can make the CDL course cost more manageable in the long run by helping you pass your exams the first time.
When shopping for study materials, consider carefully the type of license you need (Class A or Class B), where you plan to drive, and whether you hope to haul across state lines (interstate vs. intrastate trucking). It’s crucial to focus your studies on the most relevant topics so you can pass your tests with flying colors.
How to Get Your CDL
Earning your commercial license involves several steps, and each adds to the overall CDL cost. Follow these steps to get your CDL:
- Enroll in training: First, you’ll sign up for a driving program. This is where the bulk of your investment goes, with the CDL school cost making up the largest portion of your budget.
- Take a written test: After 40 hours of classroom instruction, you’re ready to take the written test. You must pass this to get your CLP. The cost of a CLP varies by state, but it’s required.
- Log road hours: In most programs, you must log 120 hours of practical road training with your CLP.
- Take the driving exam: Once you’re prepared, you’ll need to pay the CDL road test cost and schedule your exam.
- Add endorsements: If you want specialized endorsements, you’ll face additional CDL fees. These add-ons are great for self-employed drivers, especially if you plan on getting trucking authority.
- Pay for your license: After passing the exams, you’ll finalize everything by paying your CDL license fees, which officially grant you your new credential.
In-Summary: How Much Does It Cost to Get Your CDL?
In total, you can expect to pay anywhere from $2,500 to $8,000 or more to get your CDL. If you’re going for a Class A license, expect the CDL A license cost to be higher—often $5,000 to $8,000—while the CDL Class B path is usually less, averaging $2,500 to $5,000.
Of course, the exact total depends on your state, your choice of school, and whether you pursue endorsements. But the good news is that many employers help offset the average cost for CDL training through tuition reimbursement, making the investment more manageable for company drivers.
At the end of the day, the true CDL certification cost involves more than just tuition costs—it’s a combination of exams, permits, and additional CDL fees. Knowing what to expect ahead of time can help you plan your budget and hit the road with confidence.
Michael McCareins is the Content Marketing Associate at altLINE, where he is dedicated to creating and managing optimal content for readers. Following a brief career in media relations, Michael has discovered a passion for content marketing through developing unique, informative content to help audiences better understand ideas and topics such as invoice factoring and A/R financing.
