CDL Truck Driver in Colorado
Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for CO
How to Become a CDL Truck Driver in Colorado
To become a CDL Truck Driver in Colorado, applicants must obtain a Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP) from the Colorado Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) after passing knowledge tests and completing FMCSA-approved Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT). After holding the CLP for at least 14 days, applicants must pass a CDL skills test administered by a third-party provider. The final step involves submitting the application and paying the licensing fee to the Colorado DMV. A valid DOT medical certificate is mandatory, and applicants must be at least 18 for intrastate driving or 21 for interstate commerce.
CDL Truck Driver Requirements in Colorado
| Detail | Colorado |
|---|---|
| Licensing Body | Colorado Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) |
| State License Required | Yes |
| Education | FMCSA-approved Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) |
| Exam | CDL General Knowledge and Skills Test ($275) |
| Application Fee | $18 |
| Renewal | Every 4.0 years |
| Notes | Applicants must be 18+ for intrastate commerce (with a 'K' restriction) or 21+ for interstate commerce. A valid DOT medical certificate is required. The Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP) costs approximately $18 and is valid for one year, not eligible for renewal. Skills test fees are paid to third-party providers and vary. Federal Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) is required for new applicants. Hazmat endorsement requires a TSA background check and a written hazmat test. All valid out-of-state CDLs transfer to Colorado, with the exception of Hazmat (H) and Tanker/Hazmat (X) endorsements, which require retesting. Colorado has paused the issuance and renewals of term-limited (non-domiciled) Commercial Driver's Licenses (CDLs) and Commercial Learner's Permits (CLPs) as of September 29, 2025, due to new federal regulations. |
License Tiers
Colorado 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 Colorado
The median cdl truck driver salary in Colorado is $60,260 per year, which is 4.9% above the national median of $57,440.
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th (entry level) | $45,730 |
| 25th | $51,380 |
| 50th (median) | $60,260 |
| 75th | $68,270 |
| 90th (experienced) | $80,150 |
Colorado employs approximately 27,840 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 Colorado Worth It?
Factors to consider: Colorado's cost of living, the state licensing requirement, moderate job growth, low AI disruption risk, and your personal career goals.