How to Get a CDL in Arizona
A commercial driver’s license (CDL) is the starting point for a career in professional trucking. In Arizona, the process involves meeting state and federal requirements, completing an approved training program, and passing both a knowledge test and a skills test.
This guide covers everything a prospective CDL holder needs to know — from license types and age requirements to fees, testing, endorsements, and renewal.
Table of Contents
- Types of CDLs in Arizona
- Arizona CDL Requirements
- Federal ELDT Requirement
- Arizona CDL Fees
- CDL Knowledge Test
- CDL Skills Test
- Renewing an Arizona CDL
- Frequently Asked Questions
Types of Commercial Driver’s Licenses in Arizona
Arizona issues three classes of commercial driver’s licenses based on the weight and type of vehicle a driver intends to operate.
Class A CDL Required for combination vehicles with a gross combined weight rating (GCWR) of 26,001 pounds or more. This license opens the door to long-haul freight, flatbed, tanker, and most over-the-road driving careers.
Class B CDL Required for any single vehicle with a GVWR of 26,001 pounds or more, including straight trucks and buses.
Class C CDL Required for vehicles with a GVWR of 26,000 pounds or less that are placarded to carry hazardous materials or designed to transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver.
Most drivers entering the trucking industry pursue a Class A CDL. It provides the broadest range of employment options and the highest earning potential.
Arizona Class A CDL Requirements
Before beginning the licensing process, applicants must meet a set of baseline requirements.
Age Requirements
The minimum age for a CDL in Arizona is 18. Drivers between 18 and 20 may apply for an intrastate CDL, which is valid for driving within Arizona only and will have a interstate restriction (K restriction). Drivers under 21 are not permitted to transport hazardous materials under federal law.
Arizona Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP)
All first-time CDL applicants in Arizona must obtain a commercial learner’s permit (CLP) before taking the road skills test. The permit is valid for six months and allows applicants to practice under supervision.
The following documents are required to apply for an instruction permit:
- A Medical Examiner Certificate from a licensed physician, physician assistant, or advanced practice nurse
- Social Security card
- Valid driver’s license
- Acceptable forms of ID, such as a birth certificate or passport
- Proof of citizenship or legal U.S. residence
- Proof of at least one year of driving experience in a non-motorcycle vehicle
Applicants with questions about documentation should contact the Arizona DOT before visiting an office.
Federal Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) Requirement
As of February 7, 2022, all first-time Class A and Class B CDL applicants must complete entry-level driver training through a school listed on the FMCSA’s Training Provider Registry. This requirement also applies to drivers upgrading from a Class B to a Class A CDL, and those seeking a school bus, passenger, or HazMat endorsement.
ELDT covers theory, range, and road training. Completing the program through a registered provider is required before taking the CDL skills test. If you wish to add endorsements to your CDL, you may be required to:
- Take endorsement-specific training
- Pay additional fees
- Pass endorsement tests
Southwest Truck Driver Training is a registered FMCSA Training Provider. Both the Phoenix and Tucson campuses offer Class A CDL programs that meet all federal ELDT requirements.
Class A CDL Training at Southwest Truck Driver Training →
Arizona CDL Permit Fees
Arizona charges separate fees for CDL permits and endorsements. Current fees are as follows:
| Fee type | Cost |
|---|---|
| Class A or B permit (no endorsements) | $25 |
| Class C permit | $12.50 |
| Doubles/Triples endorsement | $10 |
| Tank endorsement | $10 |
| Passenger endorsement (or $5 when added to an existing CDL) | $10 |
Fees are paid before testing. Applicants should confirm current rates with the Arizona MVD, as fees are subject to change.
Arizona CDL Knowledge Test
The CDL knowledge test is taken at an Arizona MVD office. Applicants must score at least 80% to pass. If the test is failed, the applicant must wait until the following day to retake it.
Cell phones, electronic are not permitted in the testing area.
The Arizona Commercial Driver License Manual is the primary study resource. CDL training programs also prepare students for this exam as part of the curriculum.
Arizona CDL Skills Test
The CDL road skills test may be taken at an MVD CDL office or through an approved third-party MVD-certified tester. Applicants must provide their own vehicle, and the vehicle must match the class of license being tested.
Students who train at Southwest Truck Driver Training start their skills test on the range before moving to the road test. SWTDT is an approved third-party testing site, so graduates test where they trained — in a familiar environment with familiar equipment.
Renewing an Arizona CDL
An Arizona CDL is valid for eight years. Renewal can often be completed online. In-person renewal requires an MVD appointment and the same documentation used during the original application.
| Fee type | Cost |
|---|---|
| Class A or B CDL renewal | $15 |
| Class C CDL renewal | $10 |
| HazMat Endorsement renewal (includes a knowledge test) | $10 |
Frequently Asked Questions
How old do I have to be to get a CDL?
Applicants must be at least 18 years old to train to get their CDL. However, you must be 21 to drive a commercial vehicle across state lines (Over-The-Road) or transport hazardous materials.
How long does it take to get a CDL in Arizona?
Training timelines to get your CDL vary based on program. SWTDT’s Class A training can be completed in 4-5 weeks in the full-time program, and as little as 8 weeks for weekend training. All training at SWTDT includes all ELDT-required theory, range and road training.
Do I need to complete a training program before taking my CDL test?
Yes. Since February 2022, all first-time Class A and Class B CDL applicants must complete entry-level driver training at an FMCSA-registered school before taking the skills test.
Can I take my CDL skills test at a training school?
Yes, if the school is an approved third-party tester. Southwest Truck Driver Training offers on-campus CDL skills testing at both the Phoenix and Tucson campuses.
How much does it cost to get a Class A CDL in Arizona?
The state permit fee is $25 for a Class A CDL. Additional costs include training tuition, which can vary from $3,000 to $7,000 in the state of Arizona. If you choose to add endorsements, it will cost more.
How long is an Arizona CDL valid?
An Arizona CDL is valid for eight years. Most renewals can be completed online. HazMat endorsement holders must pass a knowledge test at renewal.