CDL Truck Driver in Massachusetts

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

Median annual salary
$60,630
trending_up +5.6% vs. national

BLS OEWS 2024, Massachusetts.

engineering
32,170

Jobs (MA)

monitoring Stable
+4.0%

10-yr job growth

payments
$110

Licensing fees

schedule
3-4 months

Time to complete

route How to become a cdl truck driver in Massachusetts

To become a CDL Truck Driver in Massachusetts, individuals must obtain a state license from the Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV). Key steps include completing FMCSA-approved Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT), passing a CDL General Knowledge and Skills Test, and submitting an application with the associated fees. Applicants must be at least 18 years old for intrastate driving or 21 for interstate commerce, and a valid DOT medical certificate and self-certification are mandatory. While Massachusetts converts out-of-state CDLs, HazMat endorsements are not transferable and require reapplication.

bar_chart Salary percentiles

10th percentile (entry) $44,640
25th percentile $49,150
50th (median) $60,630
75th percentile $64,580
90th (experienced) $75,220

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

checklist Massachusetts requirements

Licensing bodyMassachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV)
State license Required
EducationFMCSA-approved Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT)
ExamCDL General Knowledge and Skills Test ($35)
Application fee$75
RenewalEvery 5.0 years
NotesApplicants must be 18+ for intrastate or 21+ for interstate commerce. A valid DOT medical certificate is required, and drivers must self-certify their driving type (intrastate/interstate). Federal ELDT is required for new applicants for a Class A or B CDL, or for those adding P, S, or H endorsements. HazMat (H) endorsements require a TSA background check and a separate knowledge test, and are not transferable from other states. The CDL General Knowledge test requires an 80% passing score. The cost for a Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP) application is $30.00, and endorsement fees are $10.00 each if taken with the permit application or $30.00 if taken separately.

Source: Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV)

workspace_premium Massachusetts license tiers

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

What's required to work as a cdl truck driver in Massachusetts? expand_more
The path to cdl truck driver licensure in Massachusetts: complete the required education (FMCSA-approved Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT)), pass the CDL General Knowledge and Skills Test, and submit your application ($75 fee).
Does Massachusetts require cdl truck driver licensure? expand_more
You cannot practice as a cdl truck driver in Massachusetts without a state license from Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV). The required exam is the CDL General Knowledge and Skills Test.
How much does a cdl truck driver make in Massachusetts? expand_more
Massachusetts cdl truck drivers bring home a median salary of $60,630. This exceeds the $57,440 national median by 6%. Entry-level (10th percentile) starts at $44,640, while experienced professionals (90th percentile) earn $75,220.
How much does it cost to become a cdl truck driver in Massachusetts? expand_more
Plan on spending varies total — that covers exam fee ($35) and application fee ($75) plus your education and training.
How long does it take to become a cdl truck driver in Massachusetts? expand_more
Expect to spend 3-4 months from start to finish in Massachusetts — covering coursework, supervised experience, and examination.

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