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)
- Location: 520 E 34th Ave, Anchorage, AK 99503
- Program: Comprehensive CDL training focusing on safety and compliance
- Visit CEE’s CDL Program
Northern Industrial Training (NIT)
- Location: 1740 N Terrilou Ct, Palmer, AK 99645
- Program: CDL training with endorsement options
- Visit NIT’s CDL Program
Alaska Driving Academy
- Location: 1413 Hyder St, Anchorage, AK 99501
- Program: Personalized CDL training programs
- Visit Alaska Driving Academy
What Career Opportunities Are Available?
The commercial driving industry in Alaska offers diverse employment options. Major employers include:
Carlile Transportation
- Locations: Anchorage, Fairbanks, and Kenai
- View Career Opportunities
Lynden Transport
- Locations: Anchorage, Fairbanks, and Juneau
- View Career Opportunities
Alaska West Express
- Locations: Anchorage and Fairbanks
- View Career Opportunities
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.