CDL Truck Driver in Arizona
Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for AZ. Updated with 2024 BLS OEWS wage data.
BLS OEWS 2024, Arizona.
Jobs (AZ)
10-yr job growth
Licensing fees
Time to complete
route How to become a cdl truck driver in Arizona
To become a CDL Truck Driver in Arizona, applicants must obtain a Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP) by passing applicable knowledge tests. New applicants are required to complete FMCSA-approved Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) before taking the skills test. The skills test includes a pre-trip inspection, basic control skills, and a road test. Applicants must be at least 18 years old for intrastate driving or 21 for interstate driving and to transport hazardous materials, and must hold a valid DOT medical certificate. Arizona offers reciprocity for out-of-state CDLs, though a new knowledge test is required for a Hazardous Materials Endorsement.
bar_chart Salary percentiles
Source: BLS OEWS 2024 for Arizona. Metro-area wages may differ significantly from the state aggregate.
checklist Arizona requirements
| Licensing body | Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) Motor Vehicle Division (MVD) |
| State license | Required |
| Education | FMCSA-approved Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) |
| Exam | CDL General Knowledge and Skills Test ($25) |
| Application fee | $25 |
| Renewal | Every 8.0 years |
| Notes | Applicants must be 18+ for intrastate commerce or 21+ for interstate commerce and to transport hazardous materials. A valid DOT medical certificate is required and must be renewed every 24 months or sooner. Federal Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) is required for new applicants for a Class A or B CDL, or for those upgrading from Class B to Class A, or obtaining S, P, or H endorsements for the first time. The CDL General Knowledge and Skills Test fees are $25 for Class A/B and $12.50 for Class C. Endorsement fees are typically $10 each, with the exception of a school bus endorsement which has no fee. Skills test fees are paid to the MVD, not third-party providers, though third-party examiners may charge for vehicle use. A criminal records check fee of $22 is payable to the Arizona Department of Public Safety. A background check is required for a Hazardous Materials Endorsement. |
Source: Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) Motor Vehicle Division (MVD)
workspace_premium Arizona license tiers
Arizona 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
AI & tech impact
This career has low exposure to AI automation. Most tasks require physical presence, human judgment, or hands-on skills that AI cannot easily replicate.
balance Is it worth it?
- check_circleArizona license required — clearer credential signal to employers
- check_circleLow AI disruption risk