CDL Truck Driver in District of Columbia
Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for DC. Updated with 2024 BLS OEWS wage data.
BLS OEWS 2024, District of Columbia.
Jobs (DC)
10-yr job growth
Licensing fees
Time to complete
route How to become a cdl truck driver in District of Columbia
To become a CDL Truck Driver in the District of Columbia, you must obtain a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) through the District of Columbia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). Key steps include completing FMCSA-approved Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT), passing a general knowledge test and a skills test, and completing mandatory Human Trafficking Awareness training. Applicants must be at least 21 years old for an interstate CDL, or 18 for an intrastate CDL, and hold a valid DOT medical certificate. If you have an out-of-state CDL and reside in DC for more than 30 days, you must convert it to a DC CDL.
bar_chart Salary percentiles
Source: BLS OEWS 2024 for District of Columbia. Metro-area wages may differ significantly from the state aggregate.
checklist District of Columbia requirements
| Licensing body | District of Columbia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) |
| State license | Required |
| Education | FMCSA-approved Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) |
| Exam | CDL General Knowledge and Skills Test ($20) |
| Application fee | $117 |
| Renewal | Every 8.0 years |
| Notes | Applicants must be 21+ for interstate CDL, hazardous materials, or passenger endorsements. An intrastate CDL (within DC only) is available for those 18+. A valid DOT medical certificate is required. New applicants must complete FMCSA-approved Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT). Additionally, Human Trafficking Awareness training is required for new CLP applicants and those converting an out-of-state CDL. Fees are approximate: $10 for knowledge test, $78 for CLP, $10 for road test, $117 for license. Endorsement fees are $20 each. Drivers with a 'prohibited' Clearinghouse status are prohibited from operating a CMV. |
Source: District of Columbia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV)
workspace_premium District of Columbia license tiers
District of Columbia 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_circleDistrict of Columbia license required — clearer credential signal to employers
- check_circleLow AI disruption risk