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

How much does it cost to get a CDL in Indiana? On average, around $3,500 covers the fees you need to get a CDL in Indiana. But the real concern isn’t just the total price. It’s exactly what is included in that cost. In this guide, Easy Prep breaks down every expense you should expect when pursuing your CDL in Indiana, from application and testing fees to training program costs.

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

Investing around $3,500 to kickstart your truck driving career in Indiana? Why not! After all, it’s a small price to pay for a career with long-term stability and high earning potential. Below, we’ve outlined the essential fees you’ll need to cover to obtain your CDL in Indiana.

DOT Physical exam fee

DOT Physical exam fee

In Indiana, you are required to pass a DOT (Department of Transportation) physical exam before applying for your CDL. This medical examination ensures that you meet the health and safety standards necessary to operate a commercial vehicle. 

The cost of the exam is typically around $60, and it covers essential checks such as vision, hearing, blood pressure, and overall physical fitness. Without this step, you won’t be eligible to move forward with the CDL application process.

CDL application fees

To get a CDL in Indiana, one of the first things you need to understand is the cost of the application itself. Knowing these fees upfront helps you budget more effectively for the entire licensing process. Below is a breakdown of the most common CDL application fees in Indiana that every applicant should be aware of.

• New CDL application class A ($35): This fee applies when you submit your initial application for a Class A CDL, which is the most versatile license type for operating large commercial vehicles.
• Duplicate or replacement CDL ($9): If your CDL card is ever lost, stolen, or damaged, you’ll need to pay this fee to obtain a replacement. It ensures you always have a valid license on hand.
• CDL upgrade/downgrade ($19): This fee applies to every license change (like moving up from Class B to Class A, adjusting your license class downward,…)

Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) fee

Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) fee

Before you can take the CDL skills test, you’ll first need to obtain a Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP). This permit allows you to legally practice driving a commercial vehicle under the supervision of a licensed CDL holder. Here’s a breakdown of the associated costs in Indiana:

• New CLP application ($17): This fee covers your initial CLP, which is valid for practicing on the road and preparing for the CDL skills test.
• Duplicate or replacement CLP ($9): If your CLP is lost, stolen, or damaged, you’ll need to pay this fee to get a replacement.
  Upgrade or downgrade CLP ($19): Applies if you move between license classes or make adjustments to your CLP, such as upgrading from Class B to Class A.

Training costs

Training costs

When it comes to CDL training, Indiana offers several pathways. Each training option comes with different costs, benefits, and commitments. Below is a breakdown:

• Private truck driving schools: Cost ranges from $3,000 to $7,000, with programs typically lasting 4-8 weeks. These schools offer comprehensive instruction, flexible schedules, and job placement support, but require higher upfront payments unless you secure loans or grants.
• Community college programs: Generally priced between $2,500 and $5,000, these courses last 8-16 weeks and may qualify for federal or state financial aid. They provide a structured learning environment and sometimes additional certifications, but usually demand a longer time commitment.
• Company-Sponsored training: Often offered at little to no upfront cost, with training completed in 3-6 weeks. In return, you agree to work for the sponsoring company for a set period (typically 1-2 years). This option guarantees a job but limits your employment flexibility until the contract ends.

Testing costs

Testing costs

One of the advantages of earning your CDL in Indiana is that you don’t have to pay for the written knowledge test or the road skills test. Both are provided free of charge by the state, which can save you a significant amount of money compared to other states where testing fees are mandatory. This means your budget can focus more on essential expenses like training, medical exams, and application fees, making the overall path to getting your CDL in Indiana more affordable.

Additional endorsement fees

Additional endorsement fees

If you plan to expand your driving qualifications beyond a standard CDL, you’ll need to add specific endorsements to your license. Each endorsement allows you to operate specialized vehicles or transport particular types of cargo, such as hazardous materials, passengers, or tankers. In Indiana, the fee for adding a CDL endorsement is $19. 

FAQs

1. What is the cheapest way to get a CDL license in Indiana?

The cheapest path depends on leveraging company-sponsored training, financial aid/grants, and selecting more affordable training providers. Here are some ways:

• Company-sponsored or employer-paid programs: Some trucking companies offer “free” or reduced-cost training in exchange for a commitment to work for the company for a period. This can substantially reduce or eliminate the tuition expense.
• State colleges or community college programs: These tend to have lower tuition compared to many private truck driving schools. For example, some colleges run about $3,000 for certain programs.
• Grants/financial aid, scholarship, tuition reimbursement: Many Indiana CDL schools partner with employers or receive state/federal funding/grants to offset costs.

2. How much does CDL school cost in Indiana?

The cost of CDL school in Indiana varies depending on the type of program. On average, community college programs range from $2,500 to $5,000, while private CDL schools can cost between $3,000 and $7,000. Company-sponsored training may be offered at little to no upfront cost, though it usually requires a work contract. Keep in mind that you’ll also need to budget for additional expenses such as the DOT physical exam, licensing fees, and endorsements.

Final thoughts

How much does it cost to get a CDL in Indiana? With an average investment of about $3,500, the cost of obtaining a CDL in Indiana is generally lower than in many other states. Beyond the lower tuition, Indiana also offers a wide range of training opportunities, including affordable community college programs and paid CDL training options sponsored by trucking companies.