Truck Driving Programs in Alabama
Obtaining a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) in Alabama
Getting your Commercial Driver’s License in Alabama opens doors to rewarding career opportunities in the transportation industry. Whether you’re interested in driving trucks, buses, or other commercial vehicles, here’s everything you need to know about earning your CDL in Alabama.
What Are the Basic Requirements for a CDL in Alabama?
To qualify for a CDL in Alabama, you must meet several requirements:
- Be at least 18 years old for intrastate driving or 21 for interstate driving
- Hold a valid regular driver’s license
- Pass a DOT physical examination
- Complete required drug and alcohol testing
- Pass background checks reviewing both criminal and driving history
- Obtain a Medical Examiner’s Certificate (ME Certificate)
What Types of CDL Licenses Are Available?
Alabama 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 transporting hazardous materials or designed to carry 16 or more passengers
How Much Does CDL Training Cost in Alabama?
CDL program costs in Alabama typically range from $3,500 to $5,000, depending on the training provider and license class. Here are some leading training options:
Truck Driver Institute (TDI) – Oxford
- Cost: Approximately $5,000
- Program Length: 15 days
- Location: 6200 McClellan Blvd, Anniston, AL 36206
- Visit TDI Website
Wallace State Community College – Hanceville
- Cost: Approximately $3,500
- Program Length: 6 weeks
- Location: 801 Main St NW, Hanceville, AL 35077
- Visit Wallace State Website
Bishop State Community College – Mobile
- Cost: Approximately $4,000
- Program Length: 4 weeks
- Location: 351 N Broad St, Mobile, AL 36603
- Visit Bishop State Website
What Are the Testing Requirements?
The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) administers CDL testing, which includes:
- Written knowledge test (requires 80% to pass)
- Skills test ($25.00 fee)
- Additional tests for specific endorsements
- 7-day waiting period between retests if needed
How Do I Maintain My CDL?
Once you obtain your CDL, you’ll need to:
- Renew every 5 years
- Pay renewal fees ($66.25 for Class A, $56.25 for Class B, $36.25 for Class C)
- Maintain a current Medical Examiner’s Certificate
- Report any criminal convictions to ALEA
- Update your address when it changes
Where Can I Find Employment After Getting My CDL?
Several major trucking companies operate in Alabama:
AAA Cooper Transportation
- Based in Dothan
- Specializes in transportation and logistics
- View AAA Cooper Careers
Southeastern Freight Lines
- Multiple Alabama locations
- Focuses on LTL services
- View SEFL Careers
P&S Transportation
- Headquartered in Birmingham
- Specializes in flatbed trucking
- View P&S Careers
What Professional Resources Are Available?
The Alabama Trucking Association offers valuable resources for CDL holders:
- Industry advocacy
- Professional training opportunities
- Networking events
- Visit Alabama Trucking Association
For official regulations and requirements, consult:
How Do I Get Started?
- Review the Alabama CDL Manual
- Schedule your DOT physical examination
- Complete required drug and alcohol testing
- Enroll in an approved CDL training program
- Apply for your CDL through ALEA
- Schedule and complete your knowledge and skills tests
A career in commercial driving offers stability, competitive pay, and opportunities for advancement. Contact one of the training providers listed above to begin your journey toward becoming a licensed commercial driver in Alabama.