How much does it cost to get a CDL license in New York?

How much does it cost to get a CDL license in New York? The answer is not as simple as a single number, as costs can range from $1,800 to $8,500 or more.  While official DMV fees for the permit, road test, and license are relatively modest, additional costs like medical exams, training programs, endorsements, and potential retesting can add up quickly. Understanding all these expenses before you start is essential to avoid surprises and to plan your career path effectively. In this guide, we break down every cost associated with getting a CDL in New York.

How much does it cost to get a CDL license in New York?

The cost of obtaining a CDL license in New York varies greatly, with total expenses potentially falling anywhere between $1,800 and $8,500 or more. This variation is due to the different costs involved, such as DMV fees, training programs, medical exams, endorsements, and any additional tests or retesting. Your total expenses will depend on the choices you make, the training path you take, and the endorsements you pursue.

DMV fees

DMV fees

The first and most straightforward costs come directly from the New York DMV:

• Commercial Learner Permit (CLP) application: $10
• Skills/road test fee: $40
• CDL License issuance: ~$164.50
• Additional knowledge/endorsement test: $5 per test

These fees cover the essential steps required by the DMV for obtaining a CDL. They are the baseline costs every applicant must pay.

Medical examination cost

Medical examination cost

Before you can legally drive a commercial vehicle, you must pass a DOT medical certification to ensure you meet the physical requirements.

• Cost range: $75–$150, depending on the medical provider
  
• This exam is mandatory for all CDL applicants and must be completed prior to the road test.

Training CDL programs fee

Training CDL programs fee

Most first-time CDL applicants benefit from enrolling in a commercial driving school or Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) program. Training helps you prepare for both the road test and endorsements.

• Cost range: $1,500–$8,000, depending on school, course length, type of CDL, and endorsements included.
  
• Endorsements such as Hazardous Materials (H), Passenger Transport (P), Tanker (N), and School Bus (S) may require additional training and fees.

Optional Costs & Considerations

Beyond the DMV and training costs, several optional or situational expenses may affect your total budget:

• Retesting fees (if you fail knowledge or skills tests): $40–100 per attempt
• License replacement or upgrading fees: $20–50
• Vehicle rental for road test: Varies if you do not have access to a suitable commercial vehicle
• Study materials & practice tests: $20–100. To save money, you can also use free resources such as New York CDL Practice Tests.

Additionally, certain endorsements may require federal background checks or specialized courses, particularly for Hazardous Materials (HazMat). These costs are highly variable and depend on individual choices.

Wrap up

So, how much does it cost to get a CDL license in New York? The total expenses can vary widely depending on your choices. At a minimum, DMV fees for the CLP, road test, and license total around $214.50, with an additional $5 for each endorsement test if applicable. However, when you include the cost of a DOT medical examination, commercial driving school training, endorsements, retesting fees, and optional expenses like vehicle rental or study materials, the total can easily rise to $1,800–$8,500 or more.