CDL Truck Driver in Delaware
Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for DE
How to Become a CDL Truck Driver in Delaware
To become a CDL Truck Driver in Delaware, applicants must obtain a Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP) by passing knowledge tests and holding it for at least 14 days. They must complete FMCSA-approved Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) and pass a CDL skills test, which costs $48.00. The licensing body is the Delaware Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV), and the 8-year CDL license fee is $48.00. A valid DOT medical certificate is required, and applicants must be at least 18 for intrastate driving or 21 for interstate commerce. Delaware has limited reciprocity agreements for Class D licenses with Germany, Taiwan, and France, but these do not extend to commercial endorsements.
CDL Truck Driver Requirements in Delaware
| Detail | Delaware |
|---|---|
| Licensing Body | Delaware Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) |
| State License Required | Yes |
| Education | FMCSA-approved Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) |
| Exam | CDL General Knowledge and Skills Test ($48) |
| Application Fee | $5 |
| Renewal | Every 8.0 years |
| Notes | Applicants must be 18+ for intrastate driving or 21+ for interstate commerce or to transport hazardous materials. A valid DOT medical certificate is required. New applicants must complete FMCSA-approved Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT). The CLP application fee is $5.00, the skills test fee is $48.00, and the 8-year CDL license fee is $48.00. Endorsements cost an additional $5 each, with a HazMat endorsement requiring an $86.50 federal TSA background check. As of June 23, 2025, the DMV will no longer accept Medical Examiner's Certificates directly from CDL holders; they will be transmitted electronically from the FMCSA National Registry. Drivers must hold a Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP) for a minimum of 14 days before taking the skills test. A background check and drug screening may also be required. |
License Tiers
Delaware 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 Delaware
The median cdl truck driver salary in Delaware is $58,510 per year, which is 1.9% above the national median of $57,440.
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th (entry level) | $44,610 |
| 25th | $51,060 |
| 50th (median) | $58,510 |
| 75th | $62,400 |
| 90th (experienced) | $74,010 |
Delaware employs approximately 5,950 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 Delaware Worth It?
Factors to consider: Delaware's cost of living, the state licensing requirement, moderate job growth, low AI disruption risk, and your personal career goals.