Application Fee
See agencyVerified by NJ Board of Transportation
Truck Driver (CDL) Licensing in New Jersey
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for truck driver (cdl) in New Jersey, 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 New Jersey
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: No educational requirements.
- 2
Experience: No experience required.
- 3
Background/Criminal Review: No criminal record prohibitions.
- 4
License Type: Stand-alone license.
Exam and processing details
- State exam required
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Department of Transportation • Motor Vehicle Commission
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$64,720 median (13% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#2 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (6)
- 1. Meet New Jersey eligibility requirements for Truck Driver (CDL) licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training: No educational requirements.
- 3. Document required supervised experience: No 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.).
- 6. Submit the application to Department of Transportation~Motor Vehicle Commission and monitor board communications.
Salary Insights in New Jersey
With a median salary of $64,720, Truck Driver (CDL)s in New Jersey earn 13% above the national median of $57,440. New Jersey ranks #2 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+2.4%Average Weekly Wage
$1,565Median annual salary
$64,720Hourly estimate
$31.1213% above national median
Difference: +$7,280
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationTruck Driver (CDL) Salary Ranking
#2 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| New Jersey | $64,720 | No educational requirements | State exam required | Varies by board |
| New York | $60,520 | Specific course required | State exam required | Varies by board |
| Pennsylvania | $58,540 | No educational requirements | State exam required | Varies by board |
| Delaware | $58,510 | No educational requirements | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Jersey | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| New York | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Pennsylvania | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Delaware | 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
Department of Transportation • Motor Vehicle Commission
PO Box 124, Trenton, NJ, 8666
Phone: 6096339493
Related Careers in New Jersey
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Commercial Pilot | $229,820 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Acupuncturist | $86,550 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians | $97,730 | 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 New Jersey?
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 New Jersey?
New Jersey 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 New Jersey?
The board typically expects No educational requirements for Truck Driver (CDL) licensure in New Jersey.
What is the typical Truck Driver (CDL) salary in New Jersey?
The median annual salary for Truck Driver (CDL)s in New Jersey is $64,720. Salaries range from $48,820 (10th percentile) to $89,130 (90th percentile).
How does the Truck Driver (CDL) salary in New Jersey compare to the national average?
Truck Driver (CDL)s in New Jersey earn 13% above the national median of $57,440, with a state median of $64,720.
How many Truck Driver (CDL)s work in New Jersey?
New Jersey employs approximately 49,450 Truck Driver (CDL)s according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Truck Driver (CDL) license to New Jersey 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 New Jersey?
The licensing agency is Department of Transportation / Motor Vehicle Commission. Review agency details at https://www.state.nj.us/mvc/mvc/drivertopics/gettingcdl.htm.
How often do you renew a Truck Driver (CDL) license in New Jersey?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.