CDL Truck Driver in Michigan
Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for MI
How to Become a CDL Truck Driver in Michigan
To become a CDL Truck Driver in Michigan, individuals must obtain a Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP) from the Michigan Secretary of State, which involves passing written knowledge tests. After holding the CLP for at least 14 days and completing FMCSA-approved Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT), applicants must pass a CDL skills test administered by a third-party provider. Finally, they can apply for their CDL at a Secretary of State office, paying the license fee and any applicable endorsement fees. Drivers must be at least 18 for intrastate driving and 21 for interstate or hazardous materials transport, and a valid DOT medical certificate is required.
CDL Truck Driver Requirements in Michigan
| Detail | Michigan |
|---|---|
| Licensing Body | Michigan Secretary of State (SOS) |
| State License Required | Yes |
| Education | FMCSA-approved Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) |
| Exam | CDL General Knowledge and Skills Test |
| Application Fee | $25 |
| Renewal | Every 4.0 years |
| Notes | Applicants must be 18+ for intrastate commerce or 21+ for interstate commerce or to transport hazardous materials. A valid DOT medical certificate is required for non-excepted interstate and intrastate commerce. The Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP) application fee is $25, and the CDL license fee is $25 for a standard CDL or $45 for an enhanced CDL. Endorsements cost $5 each. Skills test fees are paid to third-party providers and vary (e.g., $150 per attempt, plus vehicle rental). Federal Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) is required for new applicants for a Class A or B CDL, or for those seeking to upgrade an existing CDL or obtain certain endorsements (H, P, S) for the first time. A background check is required for a hazardous materials endorsement. |
License Tiers
Michigan 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 Michigan
The median cdl truck driver salary in Michigan is $55,140 per year, which is 4.0% below the national median of $57,440.
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th (entry level) | $37,800 |
| 25th | $47,620 |
| 50th (median) | $55,140 |
| 75th | $61,690 |
| 90th (experienced) | $72,690 |
Michigan employs approximately 59,910 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 Michigan Worth It?
Factors to consider: Michigan's cost of living, the state licensing requirement, moderate job growth, low AI disruption risk, and your personal career goals.