CDL Truck Driver in Colorado
Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for CO. Updated with 2024 BLS OEWS wage data.
BLS OEWS 2024, Colorado.
Jobs (CO)
10-yr job growth
Licensing fees
Time to complete
route How to become a cdl truck driver in Colorado
To become a CDL Truck Driver in Colorado, applicants must obtain a Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP) from the Colorado Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) after passing knowledge tests and completing FMCSA-approved Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT). After holding the CLP for at least 14 days, applicants must pass a CDL skills test administered by a third-party provider. The final step involves submitting the application and paying the licensing fee to the Colorado DMV. A valid DOT medical certificate is mandatory, and applicants must be at least 18 for intrastate driving or 21 for interstate commerce.
bar_chart Salary percentiles
Source: BLS OEWS 2024 for Colorado. Metro-area wages may differ significantly from the state aggregate.
checklist Colorado requirements
| Licensing body | Colorado Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) |
| State license | Required |
| Education | FMCSA-approved Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) |
| Exam | CDL General Knowledge and Skills Test ($275) |
| Application fee | $18 |
| Renewal | Every 4.0 years |
| Notes | Applicants must be 18+ for intrastate commerce (with a 'K' restriction) or 21+ for interstate commerce. A valid DOT medical certificate is required. The Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP) costs approximately $18 and is valid for one year, not eligible for renewal. Skills test fees are paid to third-party providers and vary. Federal Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) is required for new applicants. Hazmat endorsement requires a TSA background check and a written hazmat test. All valid out-of-state CDLs transfer to Colorado, with the exception of Hazmat (H) and Tanker/Hazmat (X) endorsements, which require retesting. Colorado has paused the issuance and renewals of term-limited (non-domiciled) Commercial Driver's Licenses (CDLs) and Commercial Learner's Permits (CLPs) as of September 29, 2025, due to new federal regulations. |
workspace_premium Colorado license tiers
Colorado 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_circleColorado license required — clearer credential signal to employers
- check_circleLow AI disruption risk