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Get your New Jersey CDL — government fees ($167), ELDT training, skills test, and step-by-step guide. Verified 2026 data. Data verified 2026-03-21. Source: LicenseMap (getlicensemap.com).
Commercial Driver's License
$167
TOTAL GOV FEES
$3,000-$7,000
TRAINING COST
4 years
RENEWAL CYCLE
18+
INTRASTATE AGE
Obtain Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP)
Visit an MVC agency with 6 Points of ID, proof of address, Medical Examiner's Certificate, and CDL Self-Certification. Pay the $125 examination fee and pass the CDL knowledge test(s) for your desired class and endorsements.
CLP is valid for 180 days
Fee: $125Complete Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT)
Complete required ELDT from a provider listed on FMCSA's Training Provider Registry before taking the skills test.
Required for all first-time CDL applicants since February 7, 2022
Schedule and Pass Skills Test
After holding CLP for at least 14 days, schedule your CDL road skills test through MVC. Test includes pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and on-road driving. You must provide the commercial vehicle.
No fee for state-administered skills test
Fee: $0Receive Your CDL
After passing the skills test, pay the CDL license fee and receive your four-year CDL with requested endorsements.
CDL prorated to expire with current NJ driver's license
Fee: $42 plus $2 per endorsementCommercial Driver’s Licenses are divided into three classes based on the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) or Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR) of the vehicle being operated.
Class A CDL
26,001+ lbs GCWR
Towing: Towed vehicle over 10,000 lbs
Common examples
Class B CDL
26,001+ lbs GVWR
Towing: Towed vehicle under 10,000 lbs
Common examples
Class C CDL
Under 26,001 lbs GVWR
Towing: Does not meet Class A or B thresholds
Common examples
Government Fees
Endorsement Fees
Training Cost
CLP ($125) + CDL ($42) + state skills test ($0)
Government Fees (You Still Pay)
Training Cost
Note: $0 (company-paid programs available)
Costs vary by school and program length
Ready to start your CDL training?
Prepare for your CDL written exams with online practice tests and study guides.
Passing Score: 80%
Test Components
State Fee: $0
No fee for state-administered CDL road test
Three-Part Exam
New Jersey primarily administers CDL skills tests through state MVC examiners
Third-party fee: $200–$500 (Varies by provider; NJ primarily uses state-administered tests)
Scheduling Note
Schedule through MVC; appointment required for CDL road skills test
Intrastate Minimum Age
18 years old
Interstate Minimum Age
21 years old (federal requirement)
Medical Card (DOT Physical)
Required
Valid State Driver's License
Required
Clean Driving Record
No disqualifying offenses per 49 CFR 383.51
Residency Requirement
Must be a resident of New Jersey with a valid NJ Class D driver's license
| Code | Endorsement | Test Type | State Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| T | Double/Triple Trailers | Knowledge | $2 |
| P | Passenger | Knowledge + Skills | $2 |
| N | Tank Vehicle | Knowledge | $2 |
| H | Hazardous Materials | Knowledge | $2 |
| X | Hazmat + Tank Combo | Knowledge | $4 |
| S | School Bus | Knowledge + Skills | $2 |
HAZMAT Note: The HAZMAT endorsement (H and X) requires a TSA background check ($85.25) and fingerprinting in addition to the state fee shown above. The TSA security threat assessment must be completed before the state will issue the endorsement.
CLP Fee
$125
Non-refundable; includes knowledge test
Holding Period
14 days
Validity
6 months
CLP Requirements
CLP Restrictions
Renewal Cycle
4 years
Renewal Fee
$42
Plus $2 per endorsement
Medical Renewal
Every 2 years
Details
CDL renewal must be completed in person at an MVC agency. Bring 6 Points of ID, proof of address, and proof of legal presence. Renewal by mail is not available for CDL holders.
Regulatory Board
Visit an MVC agency with valid out-of-state CDL, 6 Points of ID, Medical Examiner's Certificate, and CDL Holder Self-Certificate. Knowledge and road tests are waived for valid license holders (HAZMAT endorsement holders must retake the written test). Out-of-state license must be surrendered.
Transfer Fee
$42
Plus $10 transfer permit fee
Timeline
Upon establishing New Jersey residency
Transfer Requirements
Retesting Required
VerifiedVision screening only; HAZMAT written test if transferring H endorsement
Qualified military personnel are exempt from the CDL skills test (behind-the-wheel exam). Applicants must still pass all written knowledge tests, vision screening, and pay all applicable fees. Must have valid NJ Class D license and current or expired military CDL license (within 12 months).
Eligibility
Active, reserve, or discharged military personnel within the last 12 months with a valid NJ driver's license and current or expired military CDL license
Search accredited CDL training programs and compare costs, schedules, and job placement rates.
160 Driving Academy →Nationwide CDL training with flexible schedules, financial aid options, and job placement assistance.
TruckingTruth School Reviews →Real student reviews and ratings of CDL schools to help you choose the right program.
Employer-Sponsored CDL Programs
Many trucking companies offer paid CDL training in exchange for an employment commitment. These are not affiliate links — check directly with carriers like Schneider, Werner, CRST, and Swift for current company-sponsored training programs in New Jersey.
Typical self-pay CDL training costs in New Jersey range from $3,000 to $7,000. Costs vary by school and program length
Some links above may be affiliate links, meaning we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Unique to New Jersey
New Jersey has one of the highest CLP fees ($125) but charges no fee for the state-administered CDL skills test. The CDL is prorated to expire with the existing Class D license rather than running a full 4-year term from issuance.
Explore requirements for other professional licenses in New Jersey.
How this state compares to 50 others for this profession
Timeline
#1 of 51
Salary
#2 of 51
Cost
#40 of 51
Processing
#1 of 51
Based on May 2024 Bureau of Labor Statistics OEWS data for Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers (SOC 53-3032)
Entry Level
$58,450
25th percentile
Median
$64,720
+13% vs. national avg ($57,440)Experienced
$77,050
75th percentile
Wage Distribution (Annual)
49,450 employed in this state
Note: BLS category "Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers" covers CDL holders driving tractor-trailers specifically. Wages for other CDL vehicle types may differ.
Source: BLS OEWS – Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers (May 2024)
National employment projections for 2024-2034
Projected Growth
+2.6%
Below AverageNew Jobs
+53,500
over 10 years
Annual Openings
228,600
per year (avg.)
2.1M currently employed nationwide (2024)
Source: BLS Employment Projections 2024-2034 (September 2025)
Government fees and exam costs to obtain your initial license
Note: These are government licensing fees only. Education/training program costs (tuition, books, etc.) are not included as they vary widely by institution.
Source: NJ MVC | Getting your Commercial Driver License (CDL)
Estimated total: 6–16 weeks
Timeline estimated from licensing requirements on this page.
Source: NJ MVC | Getting your Commercial Driver License (CDL)
1–2 weeks
Estimated processing time
Source: NJ MVC | Getting your Commercial Driver License (CDL)
Study guides and practice tests for the commercial driver's license exam.
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All data verified as of 2026-03-21. Sources consulted:
Prepare for your CDL written exams with online practice tests and study guides. Complete your permit prep before attending a driving school.
We may earn a commission if you enroll through links on our site. This does not affect our recommendations or the price you pay.
Exploring other careers? Compare licensing requirements for real estate agents, insurance agents, and notaries in New Jersey.