CDL Truck Driver in Arkansas
Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for AR
How to Become a CDL Truck Driver in Arkansas
To become a CDL Truck Driver in Arkansas, individuals must obtain a state license through the Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration (DFA). Key steps include completing FMCSA-approved Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT), passing the CDL General Knowledge and Skills Tests, and submitting an application. Applicants must be at least 18 for intrastate driving or 21 for interstate commerce, hold a valid Arkansas Class D driver's license, and possess a current DOT medical certificate. Reciprocity is generally recognized for CDLs from other U.S. jurisdictions and Canada/Mexico, with additional requirements for foreign CDL holders regarding U.S. work authorization and English language proficiency.
CDL Truck Driver Requirements in Arkansas
| Detail | Arkansas |
|---|---|
| Licensing Body | Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration (DFA) |
| State License Required | Yes |
| Education | FMCSA-approved Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) |
| Exam | CDL General Knowledge and Skills Test ($50) |
| Application Fee | $42 |
| Renewal | Every 5.0 years |
| Notes | Applicants must be 18+ for intrastate or 21+ for interstate commerce. A valid DOT medical certificate is required. Fees are approximate: $50 for CLP, $50 for skills test, $42 for license. Federal ELDT is required for new applicants. A valid Arkansas Class D driver's license is a prerequisite. As of early 2025, Act 604 (HB1745) requires individuals with a foreign CDL to have a valid U.S. work authorization and demonstrate English language proficiency to operate a CMV in Arkansas. A Human Trafficking Prevention Course is required for Class A CDL issuance or renewal. |
Source: Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration (DFA)
License Tiers
Arkansas 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 Arkansas
The median cdl truck driver salary in Arkansas is $49,520 per year, which is 13.8% below the national median of $57,440.
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th (entry level) | $32,410 |
| 25th | $39,790 |
| 50th (median) | $49,520 |
| 75th | $68,010 |
| 90th (experienced) | $84,200 |
Arkansas employs approximately 32,290 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 Arkansas Worth It?
Factors to consider: Arkansas's cost of living, the state licensing requirement, moderate job growth, low AI disruption risk, and your personal career goals.