Application Fee
See agencyVerified by LA Board of Transportation
Truck Driver (CDL) Licensing in Louisiana
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for truck driver (cdl) in Louisiana, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 21, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
Both state and third-party exams requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Truck Driver (CDL) in Louisiana
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: Specific course required.
- 2
Experience: No experience required.
- 3
Background/Criminal Review: Background check required.
- 4
Physical Requirement: Some physical requirements.
- 5
License Type: Stand-alone license.
- 6
Proof of Insurance and valid driver's license.
- 7
Must obtain a Commercial Driver's License (CDL).
- 8
In order to get a hazardous material endorsement, the applicant must have a finger-print based, background threat assessment performed by TSA (www.hazprints.com).
Exam and processing details
- Both state and third-party exams required
Continuing education and program notes
- Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Office of Motor Vehicles
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$48,770 median (15% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#49 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (7)
- 1. Meet Louisiana eligibility requirements for Truck Driver (CDL) licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training: Specific course required.
- 3. Document required supervised experience: No experience required.
- 4. Pass required examination steps: Both state and third-party exams required.
- 5. Prepare supporting documentation (background check: Background check required; Background/Criminal Review: Background check required.; In order to get a hazardous material endorsement, the applicant must have a finger-print based, background threat assessment performed...).
- 6. Submit the application to Office of Motor Vehicles and monitor board communications.
- 7. Maintain post-licensure compliance (continuing education: Continuing education required to maintain license).
Salary Insights in Louisiana
With a median salary of $48,770, Truck Driver (CDL)s in Louisiana earn 15% below the national median of $57,440. Louisiana ranks #49 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
SteadyQoQ Employment Change
+0.2%Average Weekly Wage
$1,176Median annual salary
$48,770Hourly estimate
$23.4515% below national median
Difference: -$8,670
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationTruck Driver (CDL) Salary Ranking
#49 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Louisiana | $48,770 | Specific course required | Both state and third-party exams required | Varies by board |
| Arkansas | $49,520 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 18-21 years |
| Mississippi | $50,700 | Specific course required | State exam required | Varies by board |
| Texas | $53,070 | Specific course required | Third-party 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Louisiana | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Arkansas | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Mississippi | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Texas | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Official website verified
Office of Motor Vehicles
7701 Independence Boulevard, Baton Rouge, LA, 70806
Phone: 2259256146
Related Careers in Louisiana
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Commercial Pilot | $120,710 | No educational requirements | Varies by board |
| Acupuncturist | $78,140 | Specific course required | 6 months |
| Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians | $65,350 | Specific course 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 Louisiana?
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 Louisiana?
Louisiana lists Both state and third-party exams required as part of the licensure process for Truck Driver (CDL)s.
What education do you need to become a Truck Driver (CDL) in Louisiana?
The board typically expects Specific course required for Truck Driver (CDL) licensure in Louisiana.
What is the typical Truck Driver (CDL) salary in Louisiana?
The median annual salary for Truck Driver (CDL)s in Louisiana is $48,770. Salaries range from $34,600 (10th percentile) to $71,540 (90th percentile).
How does the Truck Driver (CDL) salary in Louisiana compare to the national average?
Truck Driver (CDL)s in Louisiana earn 15% below the national median of $57,440, with a state median of $48,770.
How many Truck Driver (CDL)s work in Louisiana?
Louisiana employs approximately 26,260 Truck Driver (CDL)s according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Truck Driver (CDL) license to Louisiana from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Truck Driver (CDL)s in Louisiana?
The licensing agency is Office of Motor Vehicles. Review agency details at https://www.sos.la.gov/Pages/default.aspx.
How often do you renew a Truck Driver (CDL) license in Louisiana?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.