CDL Truck Driver in Arizona
Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for AZ
How to Become a CDL Truck Driver in Arizona
To become a CDL Truck Driver in Arizona, applicants must obtain a Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP) by passing applicable knowledge tests. New applicants are required to complete FMCSA-approved Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) before taking the skills test. The skills test includes a pre-trip inspection, basic control skills, and a road test. Applicants must be at least 18 years old for intrastate driving or 21 for interstate driving and to transport hazardous materials, and must hold a valid DOT medical certificate. Arizona offers reciprocity for out-of-state CDLs, though a new knowledge test is required for a Hazardous Materials Endorsement.
CDL Truck Driver Requirements in Arizona
| Detail | Arizona |
|---|---|
| Licensing Body | Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) Motor Vehicle Division (MVD) |
| State License Required | Yes |
| Education | FMCSA-approved Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) |
| Exam | CDL General Knowledge and Skills Test ($25) |
| Application Fee | $25 |
| Renewal | Every 8.0 years |
| Notes | Applicants must be 18+ for intrastate commerce or 21+ for interstate commerce and to transport hazardous materials. A valid DOT medical certificate is required and must be renewed every 24 months or sooner. Federal Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) is required for new applicants for a Class A or B CDL, or for those upgrading from Class B to Class A, or obtaining S, P, or H endorsements for the first time. The CDL General Knowledge and Skills Test fees are $25 for Class A/B and $12.50 for Class C. Endorsement fees are typically $10 each, with the exception of a school bus endorsement which has no fee. Skills test fees are paid to the MVD, not third-party providers, though third-party examiners may charge for vehicle use. A criminal records check fee of $22 is payable to the Arizona Department of Public Safety. A background check is required for a Hazardous Materials Endorsement. |
Source: Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) Motor Vehicle Division (MVD)
License Tiers
Arizona offers multiple tiers of cdl truck driver licensing:
| Tier | Hours Required |
|---|---|
| Class A | N/A |
| Class B | N/A |
| Class C | N/A |
CDL Truck Driver Salary in Arizona
The median cdl truck driver salary in Arizona is $53,690 per year, which is 6.5% below the national median of $57,440.
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th (entry level) | $38,760 |
| 25th | $45,260 |
| 50th (median) | $53,690 |
| 75th | $62,340 |
| 90th (experienced) | $74,970 |
Arizona employs approximately 42,270 cdl truck drivers.
CDL Truck Driver Job Outlook
AI Impact on CDL Truck Drivers
Low AI Exposure (Score: -1.15/1.00)
This career has low exposure to AI automation. Most tasks require physical presence, human judgment, or hands-on skills that AI cannot easily replicate.
Is Becoming a CDL Truck Driver in Arizona Worth It?
Factors to consider: Arizona's cost of living, the state licensing requirement, moderate job growth, low AI disruption risk, and your personal career goals.