Tennessee’s trucking industry supports major sectors like automotive, agriculture, warehousing, and freight distribution. With its central location and booming logistics network, it’s a smart place to start a trucking career. This guide breaks down the real costs, steps, and requirements to get your Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) in Tennessee — and how CDL eXpert can help you begin affordably.

Total Cost to Get a CDL in Tennessee

Your overall cost depends on your training path, endorsements, and testing fees. Here's a breakdown based on current rates and verified Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security (TDOSHS) guidelines:

Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) – CDL eXpert’s online, FMCSA-approved ELDT course: $49.95
Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP):
- CLP Fee: $7.50
- Knowledge Test Fee: $6.00 per test (e.g., General Knowledge, Air Brakes, Combination)
CDL Training (Behind-the-Wheel Instruction):
- Community Colleges: $3,500–$5,000 (e.g., TCAT Nashville, Chattanooga State, Dyersburg State)
- Private CDL Schools: $4,500–$7,500, depending on program length
CDL Skills Test (Road Test):
- Third-party testers charge $150–$250 per attempt
DOT Medical Exam:
- $80–$150, depending on the provider
CDL License Fee:
- $56.00 for Class A or B (valid for 8 years)
Endorsements:
- $2.50 each
- HazMat background check: $86.50 (federal TSA fee)

Total Estimated Cost: Between $3,700 and $8,800, depending on training, retests, and endorsements.

Check out our article on how much you can make with your CDL in Tennessee to learn more.

Step-by-Step Guide to Getting Your CDL in Tennessee

1. Complete Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT)

Federal law requires ELDT for first-time CDL applicants.

CDL eXpert offers a $49.95 FMCSA-certified online course, accessible anytime from your phone or computer.
Once you complete the training, your record is automatically sent to the FMCSA Training Provider Registry.

2. Get a Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP)

Apply for your CLP at a Tennessee Driver Services Center. Bring:

A valid Tennessee driver’s license
Proof of U.S. citizenship or legal presence
Proof of Tennessee residency
Your DOT Medical Certificate (Form MCSA-5876)

CLP Fees:

Permit Fee: $7.50
Knowledge Tests: $6 per test

Required tests may include:

General Knowledge
Air Brakes
Combination Vehicles (for Class A)

You must hold your CLP for at least 14 days before taking the skills test.

3. Enroll in Behind-the-Wheel CDL Training

Tennessee does not require a minimum number of training hours, but employers expect hands-on instruction.

Community Colleges: $3,500–$5,000 (TCAT campuses, Columbia State, etc.)
Private CDL Schools: $4,500–$7,500 (e.g., Roadmaster Memphis, TDI in Nashville)

Training covers:

Pre-trip inspections
Basic control skills
On-the-road driving

Manual transmission training may cost more but is highly recommended for better job placement.

4. Pass the CDL Skills Test

The skills test includes three sections:

Pre-Trip Inspection
Basic Vehicle Control
On-Road Driving

Third-party testers in Tennessee charge $150–$250 per attempt, depending on location. You must test in a vehicle that matches your license class.

5. Complete a DOT Medical Exam

A DOT physical is required before obtaining your permit or license.

Cost: Typically $80–$150
Must be completed by an FMCSA-certified examiner
Carry your DOT Medical Certificate with you

6. Get Your CDL License

After passing your road test, return to the Tennessee Driver Services Center to receive your CDL.

License Fee: $56.00 (valid for 8 years)
Endorsement Fee: $2.50 each
HazMat Endorsement: Includes $86.50 for TSA background check and fingerprinting

Additional Costs in Tennessee

Manual Transmission Training: May add $200–$500, depending on your school
Study Materials: CDL eXpert includes CLP practice tests and answer explanations — at no extra cost
Retesting Fees: Additional test attempts may require repayment of third-party fees

Financial Aid and Support Options

Worried about the cost? Many Tennessee residents qualify for assistance:

WIOA Grants – Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act funding may be available at Tennessee American Job Centers
TN Reconnect & TN Promise – Some eligible adults and recent grads may qualify for tuition assistance at state colleges
Employer Sponsorships – Carriers like Schneider, Averitt Express (based in Cookeville), and McElroy Truck Lines offer tuition reimbursement or paid training
Flexible Payment Plans – Most CDL schools offer monthly installment options

Start strong — complete CDL eXpert’s $49.95 course and ask us how to access financial help in Tennessee.

Why Choose CDL eXpert?

Affordable, FMCSA-Approved ELDT — Just $49.95, completed entirely online
Mobile Friendly — Train anywhere, anytime on your phone or laptop
Instant Certification — We submit your results directly to the FMCSA
Includes Practice Questions — Be fully prepared for the Tennessee CLP test
Trusted Training Partner — Over 100,000 students trained and 95% job placement success

Start your career with CDL eXpert — the fastest, most affordable way to become a licensed truck driver in Tennessee.