California’s trucking industry is one of the largest in the country, supporting agriculture, shipping, construction, and logistics. If you’re ready to start your career as a commercial truck driver, you’ll need to obtain a California Commercial Driver’s License (CDL). Below is a complete breakdown of costs and steps based on California-specific fees and requirements.
Total Cost to Get a CDL in California
The total cost of obtaining a CDL in California varies depending on training programs, testing fees, endorsements, and medical requirements. Here’s an estimated cost breakdown:
Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) – CDL eXpert offers an FMCSA-approved online ELDT course for $49.95
Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP)
Application Fee: $41
Knowledge Test: Included in application fee (retakes may have additional fees)
CDL Training (Behind-the-Wheel Instruction)
Community Colleges: $2,500–$5,000
Private CDL Schools: $4,000–$10,000
CDL Skills Test (Road Test) – Third-party testers charge $100–$300 per attempt
DOT Medical Exam – $75–$150, depending on the provider
CDL License Fee – $85 for a Class A or B CDL
Endorsements – $40 per endorsement
Total Estimated Costs: Between $3,500–$10,500, depending on your training program, testing attempts, and endorsements. Check out our article on how much you can make with your CDL in California to learn more.
Step-by-Step Guide to Getting Your CDL in California
1. Complete Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT)
Under federal FMCSA regulations, first-time CDL applicants must complete Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) before applying for a Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP).
CDL eXpert offers an FMCSA-approved online ELDT course for $49.95
The course prepares you for the California knowledge test and includes CDL-specific practice questions
Your completion record is automatically submitted to the FMCSA Training Provider Registry
2. Obtain a Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP)
To apply for your CLP, visit a California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) office and follow these steps:
Provide the following documents:
A valid California driver’s license
Proof of identity, residency, and legal presence (e.g., birth certificate, passport)
DOT Medical Certificate (Form MCSA-5876) from an FMCSA-certified medical examiner
Pay the CLP Fees:
CLP Application Fee: $41
Knowledge Test Fee: Included in application fee
Pass the Required Knowledge Tests:
General Knowledge Test
Additional tests for endorsements (e.g., Air Brakes, Tanker, HazMat)
Once you pass, you’ll receive your Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP), which must be held for at least 14 days before you can take the skills test.
3. Enroll in Behind-the-Wheel CDL Training
California does not have a state-mandated training hour requirement, but most drivers enroll in a state-approved CDL training program for hands-on experience.
Community Colleges: $2,500–$5,000 (e.g., Fresno City College, Los Angeles Trade-Tech)
Private CDL Schools: $4,000–$10,000 (varies by school and program length)
Training Covers:
Pre-trip inspection
Basic vehicle control
On-road driving
4. Pass the CDL Skills Test
The CDL skills test includes three parts:
Pre-Trip Inspection – Demonstrate your ability to inspect a truck for safety
Basic Vehicle Control – Perform maneuvers like backing, turning, and parking
On-Road Driving – Safely operate a commercial vehicle in real-world traffic conditions
CDL Testing Fees in California:
Third-party CDL testing fees: $100–$300 per attempt
You must take the road test in a vehicle that matches your CDL class (A, B, or C)
5. Pass a DOT Medical Exam
All CDL applicants must pass a DOT physical exam performed by an FMCSA-certified medical examiner to ensure they meet federal health standards.
Cost: $75–$150, depending on the provider
Find a certified examiner on the FMCSA National Registry
6. Obtain Your CDL License
After passing your skills test, return to the California DMV to finalize your CDL application:
CDL License Fee: $85
Endorsements: $40 per endorsement
Your CDL is valid for 5 years before renewal is required
Additional Costs in California
HazMat Endorsement:
TSA Background Check: $86.50
HazMat Knowledge Test Fee: $40
Manual Transmission Training:
Some CDL schools charge extra for manual transmission training. Learning to drive a manual truck can increase job opportunities, as many employers prefer drivers with this skill.
Financial Aid and Support Options
If you need help covering CDL training costs, consider these options:
Payment Plans – Many CDL schools offer financing or installment plans
Employer Sponsorships – Some trucking companies pay for CDL training in exchange for a work commitment
State Grants & Workforce Programs – California offers workforce development grants and training assistance for eligible applicants
Why Choose CDL eXpert?
CDL eXpert is a trusted resource for affordable, high-quality CDL training. Here’s why drivers in California choose us:
FMCSA-Approved ELDT Course – Start your CDL journey for just $49.95
Flexible Online Learning – Study at your own pace, anytime, anywhere
Proven Success – Over 100,000 drivers have completed our training
Expert Support – Get guidance from CDL professionals
Start Your Trucking Career in California Today
Whether you’re hauling freight for California’s ports, farms, or logistics hubs, CDL eXpert can help you succeed.
Explore financial aid options
Take the first step toward a high-paying trucking career
FAQs
How long does it take to get a CDL in California?
Most programs take 4 to 8 weeks, depending on the school and training schedule.
What is the minimum age to get a CDL in California?
18 years old for intrastate (within California) driving
21 years old for interstate (crossing state lines) or hazardous materials transport
Do I need prior driving experience?
No prior experience is required. CDL training programs provide all the necessary instruction.
Are there additional costs to consider?
Yes, additional costs may include:
Endorsement fees
Medical exams
Manual transmission training
Ready to Hit the Road?
Start your CDL journey today with CDL eXpert!
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