How much does it cost to get a CDL in Alabama?

How much does it cost to get a CDL in Alabama? On average, you should prepare around $4,000 to cover all the expenses involved in earning your CDL in Alabama. But what exactly does this amount include? Don’t worry, this Easy Prep guide will break down every major cost so you’ll know exactly what to expect and be fully prepared for your journey into a truck driving career.

How much does it cost to get a CDL in Alabama?

The cost to get a CDL in Alabama is around $4,000, with the majority going toward school training expenses, along with additional fees such as testing, medical exams, and more. Below is a full breakdown of all the costs you’ll need to cover when pursuing a CDL in Alabama:

DOT Physical & drug screen

DOT Physical & drug screen

This is an additional cost you’ll need to cover in order to meet the mandatory requirements for getting a CDL in Alabama. The price typically ranges from $100 to $175, depending on the medical facility you choose. These exams are mandatory to ensure you are physically fit and drug-free before operating a commercial vehicle.

License fees

License fees

In Alabama, obtaining a CDL requires a license fee of $36.25. You will pay this fee at your local ALEA or DMV office. These offices will provide you with the necessary forms and instructions to start the application process. Once you receive the forms, you must complete the CDL application carefully, making sure all information is accurate and up to date. Providing correct details at this stage is essential to avoid delays or issues with your CDL approval.

Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) fee

Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) fee

Before you can obtain a full Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) in Alabama, you must first secure a Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP). This permit allows you to legally practice driving a commercial vehicle while under the supervision of a licensed CDL holder. The CLP is an essential first step in the licensing process, as it gives you hands-on training and road experience before taking the official skills test. In Alabama, the testing fee for the CLP is $38.

Training costs

Training costs

Before beginning CDL classes in Alabama, you are required to pay tuition to your chosen training provider. On average, CDL training costs about $3,000, but the exact amount depends on where you enroll.

• Community Colleges: Tuition ranges from $2,500 – $4,500.
• Private CDL Schools: Tuition ranges from $3,200 – $5,500.

While both community colleges and private CDL schools in Alabama offer quality training, the biggest factor to consider is your budget and career goals. Community colleges are often the more affordable route, though they may take longer to complete. Private CDL schools, on the other hand, provide quicker training and stronger industry connections, but at a higher cost.

For those looking to reduce upfront expenses, many trucking companies in Alabama offer company-sponsored or paid CDL training programs.

CDL application fees

When applying for a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) in Alabama, you are required to pay an application fee. This fee is part of the licensing process and is usually collected at the time you submit your CDL application or registration paperwork. The exact amount varies depending on the CDL class you are applying for:

• Class A CDL: $66.25
• Class B CDL: $56.25
• Class C CDL: $36.25

In addition, if you are transferring an out-of-state CDL to Alabama, you may also be charged a $5 transfer fee, which applies to other license classes as well. These fees ensure that your application is officially processed and recorded by the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA).

Testing costs

Testing costs

As part of the CDL licensing process in Alabama, you’ll need to pay several testing fees associated with the written and skills exams:

• CDL Written Test ($26): This fee covers the knowledge exam, which tests your understanding of commercial driving regulations, road safety, and vehicle operation.
• Skills Test ($20): After passing the written test, you must complete the hands-on driving skills test, which evaluates your ability to operate a commercial vehicle safely.
• Retest Fee ($15): If you do not pass on your first attempt, a retest fee will be required for each additional attempt.

Additional endorsement fees

Additional endorsement fees

If you wish to add endorsements to your CDL in Alabama, there is an additional fee of $15.60 per endorsement. Endorsements allow you to operate specific types of commercial vehicles or carry specialized loads. There are up to five possible endorsements you can obtain, including:

• Hazardous Materials (H): for transporting dangerous goods.
• Tanker Vehicles (N): for operating liquid cargo tanks.
• Passenger (P): for driving buses or vehicles carrying passengers.
• School Bus (S): for transporting students.
• Double/Triple Trailers (T): for pulling more than one trailer.

Replacement CDL fee

As of now, the replacement fee for a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) in Alabama is approximately $31.25. This fee applies when you need to replace or reissue your CDL due to loss, damage, or changes in personal information (such as a name or address update).

FAQs

1. How much is CDL school in Alabama?

On average, CDL training in Alabama costs around $3,500. However, the exact price depends on the type of school:

• Community Colleges: $2,500 – $4,500
• Private CDL Schools: $3,200 – $5,500

These tuition fees usually include classroom instruction, behind-the-wheel training, and preparation for your CDL exams.

2. How to get a CDL in Alabama for free?

There’s no completely free CDL path for everyone, but there are several ways to avoid paying out of pocket:

• Company-Sponsored training: Many trucking companies cover CDL training costs if you agree to work for them (usually 6-24 months).
• Workforce/WIOA programs: Local workforce agencies may fund CDL training for unemployed or low-income applicants.
• Community colleges: Some offer tuition assistance, grants, or scholarships for CDL programs.
• Nonprofits & veteran programs: Community groups or veteran organizations sometimes provide training support.
• Vocational rehab & social services: Assistance may be available if you have a disability or other barriers to employment.

Conclusion

How much does it cost to get a CDL in Alabama? By now, the answer should be clear. On average, you can expect to spend around $4,000, with costs covering everything from training tuition and application fees to testing, medical exams, and endorsements. We hope this detailed breakdown of each expense has given you a clearer picture of what to budget for and how to prepare. We wish you the best of luck on your journey to get a CDL in Alabama soon!