Application Fee
See agencyVerified by ID Board of Transportation
Truck Driver (CDL) Licensing in Idaho
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for truck driver (cdl) in Idaho, 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 Idaho
Estimated timeline: 18 yearsCore Requirements
- 1
Education: No educational requirements.
- 2
Experience: Work experience required.
- 3
Background/Criminal Review: No criminal record prohibitions.
- 4
License Type: Stand-alone license.
- 5
Heavy truck, school bus and other commercial drivers in Idaho must hold a commercial driver's license.
- 6
To get a commercial driver's license, applicants can apply at any county sheriff's office.
- 7
Bring your current driver's license, Social Security card, and money to pay any required fees.
- 8
Applicants must: 1.) Be at least 18 years old
- 2.) Present a certified birth certificate, citizenship documents, or legal presence documents
- 3.) Pass written and skills tests
- 4.) Have and maintain a good driving record
- 5.) Have a valid Idaho driver’s license and at least one year of driving experience
- 6.) Submit a self-certification report (some commercial drivers will need a U.S.
Exam and processing details
- State exam required
Continuing education and program notes
- certified birth certificate, citizenship documents, or legal presence documents
- 3
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
The Idaho Transportation Department
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$53,260 median (7% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#37 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (6)
- 1. Meet Idaho eligibility requirements for Truck Driver (CDL) licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training: No educational requirements.
- 3. Document required supervised experience: Work experience required.
- 4. Pass required examination steps: State exam required.
- 5. Prepare supporting documentation (background check: No criminal record prohibitions; Background/Criminal Review: No criminal record prohibitions.; Applicants must: 1.) Be at least 18 years old; 2.) Present a certified birth certificate, citizenship documents, or legal presence docume...).
- 6. Submit the application to The Idaho Transportation Department and monitor board communications.
Salary Insights in Idaho
With a median salary of $53,260, Truck Driver (CDL)s in Idaho earn 7% below the national median of $57,440. Idaho ranks #37 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 18 years.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+3.7%Average Weekly Wage
$1,134Median annual salary
$53,260Hourly estimate
$25.617% below national median
Difference: -$4,180
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationTruck Driver (CDL) Salary Ranking
#37 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Idaho | $53,260 | No educational requirements | State exam required | 18 years |
| Montana | $59,060 | No educational requirements | State exam required | Varies by board |
| Wyoming | $60,270 | No educational requirements | State exam required | 18-21 years |
| Utah | $59,580 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Nevada | $60,900 | No educational requirements | State exam required | 18-21 years |
| Oregon | $61,180 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Washington | $63,760 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Idaho | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Montana | 60 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Wyoming | 62 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| Utah | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Nevada | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Oregon | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Official website verified
The Idaho Transportation Department
3311 W. State St., PO Box 7129, Boise, ID, 83707-1129
Phone: 2083348735
Related Careers in Idaho
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Commercial Pilot | $103,090 | No educational requirements | 18 years |
| Acupuncturist | $37,430 | Degree required | 1 month |
| Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians | $68,500 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Anesthesiologist | N/A | Degree required | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Truck Driver (CDL) in Idaho?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about 18 years, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What exams are required for Truck Driver (CDL)s in Idaho?
Idaho lists State exam required as part of the licensure process for Truck Driver (CDL)s.
What education do you need to become a Truck Driver (CDL) in Idaho?
The board typically expects No educational requirements for Truck Driver (CDL) licensure in Idaho.
What is the typical Truck Driver (CDL) salary in Idaho?
The median annual salary for Truck Driver (CDL)s in Idaho is $53,260. Salaries range from $38,620 (10th percentile) to $71,520 (90th percentile).
How does the Truck Driver (CDL) salary in Idaho compare to the national average?
Truck Driver (CDL)s in Idaho earn 7% below the national median of $57,440, with a state median of $53,260.
How many Truck Driver (CDL)s work in Idaho?
Idaho employs approximately 14,860 Truck Driver (CDL)s according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Truck Driver (CDL) license to Idaho 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 Idaho?
The licensing agency is The Idaho Transportation Department. Review agency details at http://itd.idaho.gov/dmv/driverservices/CDL.htm.
How often do you renew a Truck Driver (CDL) license in Idaho?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.