CDL Truck Driver in Montana
Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for MT
How to Become a CDL Truck Driver in Montana
To become a CDL Truck Driver in Montana, applicants must obtain a Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP) from the Montana Motor Vehicle Division (MVD) within the Department of Justice, pass required knowledge tests, and complete FMCSA-approved Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT). After holding the CLP for at least 14 days, individuals must pass a CDL skills test, which includes a pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and a road test. A valid DOT medical certificate is mandatory, and applicants must be at least 18 for intrastate driving or 21 for interstate driving. Montana also has reciprocity agreements with neighboring states for farm vehicle drivers.
CDL Truck Driver Requirements in Montana
| Detail | Montana |
|---|---|
| Licensing Body | Montana Motor Vehicle Division (MVD) within the Department of Justice |
| State License Required | Yes |
| Education | FMCSA-approved Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) |
| Exam | CDL General Knowledge and Skills Test ($10) |
| Application Fee | $50 |
| Renewal | Every 8.0 years |
| Notes | Applicants must be 18+ for intrastate commerce or 21+ for interstate commerce. A valid DOT medical certificate from an FMCSA-certified medical examiner is required. The Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP) application fee is $10.30, and knowledge tests are $3 per attempt. Skills test fees vary, with the Montana DMV charging $10 and third-party providers charging up to $250. Endorsements cost an additional $10 each. Federal Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) is required for new applicants. |
Source: Montana Motor Vehicle Division (MVD) within the Department of Justice
License Tiers
Montana 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 Montana
The median cdl truck driver salary in Montana is $59,060 per year, which is 2.8% above the national median of $57,440.
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th (entry level) | $45,450 |
| 25th | $50,440 |
| 50th (median) | $59,060 |
| 75th | $63,510 |
| 90th (experienced) | $73,700 |
Montana employs approximately 7,050 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 Montana Worth It?
Factors to consider: Montana's cost of living, the state licensing requirement, moderate job growth, low AI disruption risk, and your personal career goals.