Obtaining a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) in Georgia involves several steps and associated costs. The costs can vary depending on the type of license, endorsements, and the testing process. Here’s a breakdown of the typical costs you might incur when applying for a CDL in Georgia:
1. CDL Learner’s Permit
- Cost: The fee for a CDL learner’s permit in Georgia is around $10. This permit is necessary for practice driving and taking the skills tests.
- Validity: A CDL learner’s permit is valid for 6 months and can be renewed once for an additional 6 months.
2. CDL License
- Cost: The cost for a CDL in Georgia can vary based on the class of license (A, B, or C) and whether you are a new applicant or renewing your license. Generally, a CDL in Georgia can cost between 100 to 150 for a 5-year or 7-year license, depending on the applicant’s age and the duration of the license.
3. Endorsements
- Cost: Additional endorsements (like H for hazardous materials, N for tank vehicles, P for passenger vehicles, S for school buses, or T for double/triple trailers) can range from 5 to 10 per endorsement. For instance, the H endorsement requires a background check through the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), which costs about $90.
4. Skills Test
- Cost: The skills test for a CDL involves three parts: vehicle inspection, basic vehicle control, and on-road driving. The cost for the skills test can vary depending on the tester. If you use a third-party tester authorized by the Georgia Department of Driver Services, the cost can range from 100 to 200 or more, depending on the tester and the class of license you’re applying for.
5. Medical Examination
- Cost: You’ll need to undergo a medical examination by a Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA)-certified medical examiner. The cost of this exam can vary but typically ranges from 100 to 200.
6. Background Check (for H Endorsement)
- Cost: If you’re applying for an H endorsement, you’ll need to undergo a background check through the TSA. The cost for this is around $90.
Total Estimated Cost
The total cost for obtaining a CDL in Georgia can range from approximately 300 to over 600, depending on the type of license, endorsements, and whether you need to take the skills test more than once. Additionally, costs for preparation, such as CDL training courses, can add thousands of dollars to your total expense, but these courses are not mandatory for obtaining a CDL.
Important Considerations
- Training Programs: While not required, many choose to enroll in a CDL training program to prepare for the written and skills tests. These programs can significantly increase your overall cost but often provide job placement assistance.
- Testing Fees: If you fail any part of the test, you may have to pay a retest fee, which can range from 50 to 100 per test, depending on what you’re retesting for.
It’s essential to check with the Georgia Department of Driver Services for the most current information on fees and requirements, as these can change. Additionally, if you’re applying for a CDL through an employer or as part of a training program, some of these costs may be covered or reimbursed. Always verify the costs and any potential reimbursements before proceeding with the application process.
