Application Fee
See agencyVerified by AL Board of Transportation
Truck Driver (CDL) Licensing in Alabama
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for truck driver (cdl) in Alabama, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 21, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
State exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Truck Driver (CDL) in Alabama
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Background/Criminal Review: Background check required.
- 2
Physical Requirement: Physical exam required.
- 3
Certification: Certification required.
- 4
License Type: Register with licensing agency.
- 5
This applicant should meet the minimum age requirement, depending on the license desired
- Current driver license
- Current DOT medical form
- Transportation Security Administration background check
- Proof of insurance.
Exam and processing details
- State exam required
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Alabama Law Enforcement Agency
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$50,120 median (13% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#44 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (5)
- 1. Confirm eligibility prerequisites (This applicant should meet the minimum age requirement, depending on the license desired; Current driver license; Current DOT medical for...).
- 2. Complete approved education or training requirements.
- 3. Pass required examination steps: State exam required.
- 4. Prepare supporting documentation (background check: Background check required; Background/Criminal Review: Background check required.; This applicant should meet the minimum age requirement, depending on the license desired; Current driver license; Current DOT medical for...).
- 5. Submit the application to Alabama Law Enforcement Agency and monitor board communications.
Salary Insights in Alabama
With a median salary of $50,120, Truck Driver (CDL)s in Alabama earn 13% below the national median of $57,440. Alabama ranks #44 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
SteadyQoQ Employment Change
+0.9%Average Weekly Wage
$1,201Median annual salary
$50,120Hourly estimate
$24.1013% below national median
Difference: -$7,320
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationTruck Driver (CDL) Salary Ranking
#44 of 50 statesfor Truck Driver (CDL) median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | Alaska | $64,890 |
| #2 | New Jersey | $64,720 |
| #3 | Washington | $63,760 |
| #4 | Oregon | $61,180 |
| #5 | Minnesota | $61,090 |
Nearby States Comparison
Truck Driver (CDL) licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alabama | $50,120 | Varies by state board | State exam required | Varies by board |
| Tennessee | $55,610 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 21 years |
| Georgia | $56,570 | No educational requirements | State exam required | Varies by board |
| Florida | $50,000 | No educational requirements | State exam required | Varies by board |
| Mississippi | $50,700 | Specific course required | State exam required | Varies by board |
License by Endorsement
Transfer requirements are state-specific. Use this quick matrix as a planning signal, then verify final endorsement rules with each board.
| State | Reciprocity Score | Tier | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alabama | 62 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| Tennessee | 62 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| Georgia | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Florida | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Mississippi | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Official website verified
Alabama Law Enforcement Agency
1040 Coliseum Boulevard, Montgomery, AL, 36109
Phone: 3342423427
Related Careers in Alabama
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Commercial Pilot | $106,840 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Acupuncturist | $78,140 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians | $86,780 | Varies by state board | 2-18 years |
| Anesthesiologist | $323,940 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Truck Driver (CDL) in Alabama?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about Varies by board, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What exams are required for Truck Driver (CDL)s in Alabama?
Alabama lists State exam required as part of the licensure process for Truck Driver (CDL)s.
What is the typical Truck Driver (CDL) salary in Alabama?
The median annual salary for Truck Driver (CDL)s in Alabama is $50,120. Salaries range from $37,520 (10th percentile) to $75,070 (90th percentile).
How does the Truck Driver (CDL) salary in Alabama compare to the national average?
Truck Driver (CDL)s in Alabama earn 13% below the national median of $57,440, with a state median of $50,120.
How many Truck Driver (CDL)s work in Alabama?
Alabama employs approximately 37,490 Truck Driver (CDL)s according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Truck Driver (CDL) license to Alabama from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Truck Driver (CDL)s in Alabama?
The licensing agency is Alabama Law Enforcement Agency. Review agency details at https://www.alea.gov/.
How often do you renew a Truck Driver (CDL) license in Alabama?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.