How Long Does It Take to Get a CDL? Complete 2026 Timeline
Learn how long it takes to get a CDL license in 2026. Training timelines by program type, costs by state, free CDL training options, and entry-level trucking jobs.
The time it takes to get a CDL typically ranges from three to seven weeks for a full-time training program. This period covers the required classroom instruction, behind-the-wheel training, and preparation needed to pass the multi-part skills and knowledge exams required by your state to earn your commercial license.
Key Takeaways
- how long does it take to get a cdl: CDL Training Timeline: How Long Each Program Takes
- free cdl training: CDL Training Program Types Compared
- cdl cost: CDL Cost Breakdown by State
- cdl jobs no experience: CDL Jobs You Can Get with No Experience
- how to get cdl: How to Get Your CDL Faster: Tips and Shortcuts
CDL Training Timeline: How Long Each Program Takes
Get Your Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP)
Complete CDL Training Program
Pass the CDL Skills Test
Receive Your Official CDL
CDL Training Program Types Compared
CDL Cost Breakdown by State
A crucial factor influencing how long does it take to get a CDL is the total cost involved. The overall CDL cost varies significantly not just by the type of school you choose, but also by the state you reside in. While the CDL course cost for your Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) is the largest expense, state-specific fees for permits, licenses, and endorsements are mandatory hurdles. Fortunately, for those researching how to get a CDL on a budget, many companies offer free CDL training. These programs are a direct pipeline to CDL jobs no experience, as the carrier covers your tuition in exchange for a driving contract.
Below is a breakdown of estimated state government fees. These figures are for general reference and can change, so always check with your local DMV for the most current pricing.
| State | Est. Permit Fee | Est. License Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Alabama | $25 (Test) + $36.25 (License) | $66.25 |
| Alaska | $15 | $120 |
| Arizona | $25 | $25 (Class A/B), $10 (Class C) |
| Arkansas | $50 | $105 |
| California | $85 | Included in application fee |
| Colorado | $16.80 | $15.50 |
| Connecticut | $10 (Test) + $26 (Permit) | $70 |
| Delaware | $5 | $48 |
| Florida | $75 | Included in application fee |
| Georgia | $10 (Test) + $35 (Permit) | $32 |
| Hawaii | $15 (Test) + $30 (Permit) | $40 |
| Idaho | $3 (Test) + $29 (Permit) | $40 |
| Illinois | $50 | $60 |
| Indiana | $30 | $35 |
| Iowa | $12 | $8/year |
| Kansas | $13 | $18 + $10 (Test) |
| Kentucky | $24 | $40 |
| Louisiana | $15 | $61.50 |
| Maine | $35 | $34 |
| Maryland | $90 | Included in application fee |
| Massachusetts | $30 | $75 |
| Michigan | $25 | $45 |
| Minnesota | $10 (Test) + $21 (Permit) | $44.25 (Class A) |
| Mississippi | $25 | $50 |
| Missouri | $25 (Test) + $7.50 (Permit) | $52 |
| Montana | $5 | $51.50 |
| Nebraska | $10 | $56.50 |
| Nevada | $50 (Test) + $18.25 (Permit) | $58.25 |
| New Hampshire | $20 (Test) + $30 (Permit) | $60 |
| New Jersey | $125 | $42 |
| New Mexico | $10 (Test) + $25 (Permit) | $18 |
| New York | $10 | $164.50 |
| North Carolina | $40 | $21.50/year |
| North Dakota | $5 (Test) + $15 (Permit) | $15 |
| Ohio | $27 | $42 |
| Oklahoma | $25 | $56.50 |
| Oregon | $23 | $160 |
| Pennsylvania | $74.50 | $109.50 |
| Rhode Island | $10 (Test) + $26.50 (Permit) | $81.50 |
| South Carolina | $15 | $25 |
| South Dakota | $33 | $33 |
| Tennessee | $14 (Test) + $6 (Permit) | $70 |
| Texas | $97 | $61 |
| Utah | $40 | $65 |
| Vermont | $30 | $60 |
| Virginia | $3 (Test) + $20 (Permit) | $64 |
| Washington | $35 | $102 |
| West Virginia | $25 | $35 |
| Wisconsin | $30 | $74 |
| Wyoming | $20 | $55 |
While these fees are a mandatory part of your CDL cost, the CDL class cost remains the most significant financial factor. The length and quality of the program directly impact how long does it take to get a CDL and your job readiness. For a deeper dive into tuition, medical exams, and other expenses, review our complete CDL cost breakdown. Remember, exploring free CDL training is a smart move if you're eager to land one of the many available CDL jobs no experience without the upfront financial burden.
New drivers can prepare for their state knowledge test with our free DMV practice test — covering road signs, traffic laws, right-of-way rules, and safe driving practices used in 2026 state exams.
Limousine and for-hire vehicle drivers can prepare for state chauffeur licensing with our free Chauffeur license practice test — covering passenger safety, traffic laws, vehicle inspection, and professional conduct.
Candidates applying for Finastra financial technology roles can prepare with our free Finastra banking technology aptitude practice test — covering numerical reasoning, logical thinking, and banking software knowledge.
Even without prior experience, the demand for new drivers is high, as noted by the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Understanding the CDL driver salary and career outlook can help you decide if pursuing one of these entry-level cdl jobs no experience is the right move for you.
CDL Jobs You Can Get with No Experience
OTR Truck Driver (Trainee)
Many large carriers offer company-sponsored or even free cdl training programs. These are excellent cdl jobs no experience because you learn on the job, minimizing your upfront cdl cost and getting paid while you train.
Local Delivery Driver (Class B)
Explore local class b cdl jobs like beverage distribution or construction material transport. This path allows you to be home daily. The timeline for how long does it take to get a cdl for Class B is often shorter than for Class A.
Yard Jockey / Hostler
Yard jockeys move trailers within a distribution center or freight yard. It's a controlled environment perfect for new drivers to master vehicle handling without the stress of public roads. A great entry point to learn how to get cdl experience.
Non-CDL Delivery Driver
Start with non cdl driving jobs using smaller trucks or vans for package delivery or local businesses. This provides valuable professional driving experience that can be a stepping stone to getting your CDL, sometimes with company sponsorship.
How to Get Your CDL Faster: Tips and Shortcuts
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About the Author
Licensed Driving Instructor & DMV Test Specialist
Penn State UniversityRobert J. Williams graduated from Penn State University with a degree in Transportation Management and has spent 20 years as a certified driving instructor and DMV examiner consultant. He has personally coached thousands of applicants through written knowledge tests, skills assessments, and commercial driver licensing programs across more than 30 states.