CDL Truck Driver in Tennessee
Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for TN. Updated with 2024 BLS OEWS wage data.
BLS OEWS 2024, Tennessee.
Jobs (TN)
10-yr job growth
Licensing fees
Time to complete
route How to become a cdl truck driver in Tennessee
To become a CDL Truck Driver in Tennessee, you must obtain a Commercial Driver's License from the Tennessee Department of Safety & Homeland Security. Key steps include completing FMCSA-approved Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT), passing a general knowledge test and a skills test, and submitting an application with a valid DOT medical certificate. Applicants must be at least 18 for intrastate driving or 21 for interstate driving or hazardous materials transport. Tennessee does not issue non-domicile CDLs, meaning drivers with out-of-state CDLs must transfer them.
bar_chart Salary percentiles
Source: BLS OEWS 2024 for Tennessee. Metro-area wages may differ significantly from the state aggregate.
checklist Tennessee requirements
| Licensing body | Tennessee Department of Safety & Homeland Security |
| State license | Required |
| Education | FMCSA-approved Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) |
| Exam | CDL General Knowledge and Skills Test ($6) |
| Application fee | $56 |
| Renewal | Every 8.0 years |
| Notes | Applicants must be 18+ for intrastate or 21+ for interstate commerce or to transport hazardous materials. A valid DOT medical certificate is required. Fees are approximate: CLP fee is $7.50, knowledge tests are $6.00 per test, and the skills test fee is paid to third-party providers and can range from $150-$250. Federal Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) is required for new applicants. Proof of U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent resident status is required. Tennessee does not issue non-domicile CDLs. Some existing CDL holders may be required to provide proof of citizenship or legal presence by April 6, 2026, or their CDL will be downgraded. |
workspace_premium Tennessee license tiers
Tennessee 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_circleTennessee license required — clearer credential signal to employers
- check_circleLow AI disruption risk