Truck Driving Programs in Alaska

How to Get a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) in Alaska

Getting your Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) in Alaska opens doors to rewarding career opportunities in commercial transportation. Whether you’re interested in operating trucks, buses, or specialized vehicles, this guide will walk you through the process of obtaining your Alaska CDL.

What Are the Basic Requirements for an Alaska CDL?

To qualify for a CDL in Alaska, you must meet several essential requirements:

  • Be at least 18 years old for intrastate driving or 21 for interstate driving
  • Hold a valid Alaska driver’s license
  • Be an Alaska resident
  • Possess a current DOT medical card
  • Complete Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT)
  • Hold a Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) for at least 14 days before skills testing

What Types of CDLs Are Available in Alaska?

Alaska offers three classes of commercial driver’s licenses:

  • Class A: For combination vehicles with a gross combined weight rating of 26,001 pounds or more
  • Class B: For single vehicles weighing 26,001 pounds or more
  • Class C: For vehicles designed to transport 16 or more passengers or hazardous materials

Additional endorsements are available for:

  • Hazardous materials (H)
  • Passenger vehicles (P)
  • Tank vehicles (N)
  • School buses (S)

How Much Does It Cost to Get a CDL in Alaska?

Here’s a breakdown of the current fees:

  • CDL License: $120.00
  • CLP Permit Application: $15.00
  • CDL Skills Test: $25.00
  • CDL Road Test: $25.00

Where Can I Get CDL Training in Alaska?

Several reputable schools offer CDL training programs:

Center for Employment Education (CEE)

Northern Industrial Training (NIT)

Alaska Driving Academy

What Career Opportunities Are Available?

The commercial driving industry in Alaska offers diverse employment options. Major employers include:

Carlile Transportation

Lynden Transport

Alaska West Express

How Do I Maintain My CDL?

To keep your CDL valid:

  • Renew every 5 years
  • Maintain a current DOT medical card
  • Report any criminal history changes to the Alaska DMV
  • Update your address within 30 days of moving
  • Comply with drug and alcohol testing requirements

Where Can I Find Additional Resources?

For more information, visit these official sources:

Are There Special Considerations for Military Personnel?

Yes, U.S. Military drivers with equivalent safe-driving experience may qualify for a skills test waiver. Contact the Alaska DMV at (907) 269-5551 for details about military exemptions.

For comprehensive information about job outlook and salary data, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics Heavy and Tractor-trailer Truck Drivers page.