CDL Truck Driver in Delaware
Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for DE. Updated with 2024 BLS OEWS wage data.
BLS OEWS 2024, Delaware.
Jobs (DE)
10-yr job growth
Licensing fees
Time to complete
route How to become a cdl truck driver in Delaware
To become a CDL Truck Driver in Delaware, applicants must obtain a Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP) by passing knowledge tests and holding it for at least 14 days. They must complete FMCSA-approved Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) and pass a CDL skills test, which costs $48.00. The licensing body is the Delaware Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV), and the 8-year CDL license fee is $48.00. A valid DOT medical certificate is required, and applicants must be at least 18 for intrastate driving or 21 for interstate commerce. Delaware has limited reciprocity agreements for Class D licenses with Germany, Taiwan, and France, but these do not extend to commercial endorsements.
bar_chart Salary percentiles
Source: BLS OEWS 2024 for Delaware. Metro-area wages may differ significantly from the state aggregate.
checklist Delaware requirements
| Licensing body | Delaware Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) |
| State license | Required |
| Education | FMCSA-approved Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) |
| Exam | CDL General Knowledge and Skills Test ($48) |
| Application fee | $5 |
| Renewal | Every 8.0 years |
| Notes | Applicants must be 18+ for intrastate driving or 21+ for interstate commerce or to transport hazardous materials. A valid DOT medical certificate is required. New applicants must complete FMCSA-approved Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT). The CLP application fee is $5.00, the skills test fee is $48.00, and the 8-year CDL license fee is $48.00. Endorsements cost an additional $5 each, with a HazMat endorsement requiring an $86.50 federal TSA background check. As of June 23, 2025, the DMV will no longer accept Medical Examiner's Certificates directly from CDL holders; they will be transmitted electronically from the FMCSA National Registry. Drivers must hold a Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP) for a minimum of 14 days before taking the skills test. A background check and drug screening may also be required. |
workspace_premium Delaware license tiers
Delaware 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_circleDelaware license required — clearer credential signal to employers
- check_circleLow AI disruption risk