CDL Truck Driver in Alaska

Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for AK. Updated with 2024 BLS OEWS wage data.

Median annual salary
$64,890
trending_up +13.0% vs. national

BLS OEWS 2024, Alaska.

engineering
3,240

Jobs (AK)

monitoring Stable
+4.0%

10-yr job growth

payments
$145

Licensing fees

schedule
3-8 weeks (training programs vary)

Time to complete

route How to become a cdl truck driver in Alaska

To become a CDL Truck Driver in Alaska, applicants must obtain a state license from the Alaska Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV). Key steps include completing FMCSA-approved Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT), passing a general knowledge and skills test, and submitting an application with a valid DOT medical certificate. While the minimum age for intrastate driving is 18, drivers must be 21 for interstate commerce. Alaska requires all CDLs to be REAL ID compliant, and specific endorsements like hazardous materials may necessitate a background check. Drivers moving to Alaska with an out-of-state CDL must transfer it within 30 days.

bar_chart Salary percentiles

10th percentile (entry) $46,740
25th percentile $57,200
50th (median) $64,890
75th percentile $77,200
90th (experienced) $81,050

Source: BLS OEWS 2024 for Alaska. Metro-area wages may differ significantly from the state aggregate.

checklist Alaska requirements

Licensing bodyAlaska Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV)
State license Required
EducationFMCSA-approved Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT)
ExamCDL General Knowledge and Skills Test ($25)
Application fee$120
RenewalEvery 5.0 years
NotesApplicants must be 18+ for intrastate or 21+ for interstate commerce. A valid DOT medical certificate is required. All new CDL applicants must complete FMCSA-approved Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT). A background check is required for a hazardous materials endorsement. All Alaska CDLs must be REAL ID compliant. Non-domiciled CDLs are available for certain temporary visa holders.

Source: Alaska Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV)

workspace_premium Alaska license tiers

Alaska offers multiple tiers of cdl truck driver licensing:

Tier Hours required
Class A N/A
Class B N/A
Class C N/A

work_outline Job outlook

10-year growth
+4.0%
Average
Annual openings
237,600
Nationwide per year
Total employment
2,235,100
Nationwide
neurology

AI & tech impact

verified Low exposure -1.15/1.00

This career has low exposure to AI automation. Most tasks require physical presence, human judgment, or hands-on skills that AI cannot easily replicate.

hub

balance Is it worth it?

  • check_circleAlaska license required — clearer credential signal to employers
  • check_circleLow AI disruption risk
psychology
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Frequently asked questions

How do I become a cdl truck driver in Alaska? expand_more
In Alaska, becoming a cdl truck driver requires you to complete the required education (FMCSA-approved Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT)), pass the CDL General Knowledge and Skills Test, and submit your application ($120 fee).
Do I need a license to work as a cdl truck driver in Alaska? expand_more
Yes, Alaska requires a state license to practice as a cdl truck driver. The licensing body is Alaska Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV). You must pass the CDL General Knowledge and Skills Test.
How much does a cdl truck driver make in Alaska? expand_more
In Alaska, the median pay for cdl truck drivers comes to $64,890/year. — 13% higher than the $57,440 national figure. Entry-level (10th percentile) starts at $46,740, while experienced professionals (90th percentile) earn $81,050.
How much does it cost to become a cdl truck driver in Alaska? expand_more
Costs include exam fee ($25) and application fee ($120). The estimated total investment is varies, including education and training.
How quickly can I become a cdl truck driver in Alaska? expand_more
In Alaska, becoming a cdl truck driver generally takes 3-8 weeks (training programs vary), accounting for education requirements, hands-on training, and the exam process.

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