CDL Requirements in Tennessee
Everything you need to know about getting your Commercial Driver's License in Tennessee — costs, tests, training programs, and how to apply at the TN DMV.
Total Estimated Cost
$158 - $195
Minimum Age
18+ years
Renewal Period
5 years
Passing Score
80%
Tennessee CDL Cost Breakdown
Fees charged by the Tennessee DMV for CDL testing and issuance (training program costs are separate).
| Fee Type | Amount |
|---|---|
| Application / Permit Fee | $48 |
| Knowledge Test Fee | $12 |
| Skills Test Fee | $50 |
| CDL Issuance Fee | $48 |
| Total Estimated Cost | $158 - $195 |
* Fees do not include DOT physical ($50-$150), training program tuition, or endorsement test fees. Third-party skills test providers may charge additional fees.
Tennessee CDL Requirements Checklist
You must meet all of the following requirements to obtain a CDL in Tennessee.
Minimum Age: 18 years old
Age 18 for intrastate (within Tennessee) driving. Must be 21 for interstate (crossing state lines).
Residency Requirement
Must be a Tennessee resident. Two proofs of TN residency required.
DOT Medical Card
Must pass a DOT physical exam by an FMCSA-certified medical examiner. The medical card is valid for up to 24 months. Cost: $50-$150.
ELDT Training Required
Since February 2022, all first-time CDL applicants must complete Entry-Level Driver Training from an FMCSA-registered training provider. Both classroom theory and behind-the-wheel training are required.
Background Check
Your driving record is checked through CDLIS and the National Driver Register. Hazmat endorsements require a separate TSA background check (~$125).
Valid TN Driver License
You must hold a valid Tennessee driver license before applying for a CDL. Out-of-state licenses must be transferred first.
Written Knowledge Tests
You must pass the following written tests at a Tennessee DMV office to obtain your Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP). The passing score in Tennessee is 80%.
General Knowledge
Air Brakes
Combination Vehicles
CDL Skills Test Components
After holding your CLP for at least 14 days and completing ELDT training, you can schedule the CDL skills test in Tennessee.
Pre-Trip Inspection
Walk-around inspection demonstrating knowledge of vehicle components, engine compartment, brakes, lights, tires, and coupling devices.
Basic Controls
Performed in a controlled area. Includes straight-line backing, offset backing (left/right), and parallel parking. Scored on pull-ups and final position.
Road Test
On-road driving test evaluating turns, lane changes, intersections, railroad crossings, highway driving, and general safe driving behaviors.
Available CDL Endorsements in Tennessee
Additional written tests are required for each endorsement. Endorsements expand the types of freight and vehicles you can legally operate.
Top CDL Schools in Tennessee
ELDT-registered training programs in Tennessee. Verify any school is listed on the FMCSA Training Provider Registry before enrolling.
| School | City | Tuition | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tennessee Truck Driving School | Nashville | $5,200 | 4 weeks |
| Southwest Tennessee CC | Memphis | $3,600 | 8 weeks |
| Tennessee Technology Center | Knoxville | $3,800 | 6 weeks |
| Chattanooga State CC | Chattanooga | $3,500 | 7 weeks |
* Tuition amounts are approximate and may vary. Contact each school directly for current pricing and financial aid options.
Tennessee-Specific CDL Notes
Tennessee DOR requires CDL testing at a driver license service center. Memphis is the nation's largest freight hub by volume (FedEx World Hub, Class I railroad interchange). Nashville's rapid growth has made it a major distribution center market. Third-party CDL testing is widely available across the state.
CDL FAQ for Tennessee
How much does a CDL cost in Tennessee?
Tennessee CDL fees total approximately $158-$195, including a $48 application fee, $12 knowledge test fee, $50 skills test fee, and $48 CDL issuance fee. Community college programs offer affordable training from $3,500.
Why is Memphis the top freight hub in the U.S.?
Memphis is the home of FedEx World Hub (the world's busiest cargo airport by volume), has 5 Class I railroads, sits on the Mississippi River, and is served by I-40 and I-55. This combination makes it the nation's largest multimodal freight hub.
Is Nashville growing for CDL jobs?
Yes. Nashville's rapid population and economic growth have attracted major distribution centers from Amazon, Dollar General, Bridgestone, and many others. The I-40/I-65/I-24 interchange makes Nashville a natural distribution hub for the Southeast.
Where do I take the CDL skills test in Tennessee?
CDL skills tests are available at driver license service centers and third-party testing sites in Memphis, Nashville, Knoxville, Chattanooga, and other locations across the state.
What endorsements are most valuable in Tennessee?
The Doubles/Triples endorsement is valuable given Memphis's intermodal operations. Tanker and Hazmat endorsements are useful for the chemical industry along the Mississippi River. Passenger endorsements are in demand for Nashville's growing tourism industry.
CDL Requirements in Other States
CDL Training Guide
Classes, programs, costs, and step-by-step guide.
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