CDL Requirements by State 2026 — All 50 States
Compare CDL permit and license fees, minimum age requirements, and testing details across every US state. Fees shown are approximate and may vary by county. Total estimates include the DOT physical ($75–$150) but not CDL school tuition.
CDL Fees & Requirements — All 50 States
Understanding CDL Costs
CLP Fee: The cost of your Commercial Learner's Permit, which you obtain after passing the knowledge tests. Valid for 180 days in most states.
CDL Fee: The cost of upgrading your CLP to a full CDL after passing the skills test.
Total Estimate: Includes CLP + CDL fees and a DOT physical ($75–$150). Does not include CDL school tuition, which ranges from $1,500 to $10,000 depending on Class A vs B training.
Minimum Age: Shown as intrastate/interstate. Most states allow CDL at 18 for intrastate-only driving. Interstate (cross-state) driving requires age 21.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cheapest state to get a CDL?
Iowa, North Dakota, and New Mexico have some of the lowest combined CLP + CDL fees at under $30. However, total costs also include training, DOT physical ($75–$150), and endorsement fees.
What is the most expensive state to get a CDL?
New York has the highest CDL license fee at $164.50, with total estimated costs of $175–$325 before training. Washington, Vermont, and Maryland are also among the more expensive states.
Can I get a CDL at 18?
In most states, you can get a CDL at 18 for intrastate (within state borders) driving only. Interstate (crossing state lines) driving requires you to be at least 21 years old. The FMCSA Safe Driver Apprenticeship Pilot Program may allow some exceptions.
How many questions are on the CDL test?
The CDL General Knowledge test has 50 multiple-choice questions in all 50 states. You need a score of 80% (40 out of 50 correct) to pass. Endorsement tests have 20–30 questions.
Do I need a CDL to drive a pickup truck with a trailer?
Usually not. A CDL is only required when the GCWR exceeds 26,001 lbs and the towed vehicle exceeds 10,000 lbs (Class A), or the single vehicle exceeds 26,001 lbs GVWR (Class B). Most pickup-and-trailer setups fall below these thresholds.
Start Practicing for Free
12,000+ CDL practice questions for all 50 states — no signup required.
Start Free Practice Test