CDL Truck Driver in North Carolina
Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for NC
How to Become a CDL Truck Driver in North Carolina
To become a CDL Truck Driver in North Carolina, applicants must obtain a Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP) from the North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles (NCDMV) and hold it for at least 14 days. They must complete FMCSA-approved Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) from a registered provider. The process involves passing a CDL General Knowledge test, a vision test, and a skills test (pre-trip inspection, basic controls, and road driving). The minimum age for intrastate driving is 18, while interstate commerce or hazardous material endorsements require applicants to be 21. North Carolina participates in the International Registration Plan (IRP), and out-of-state CDL holders must transfer their license within 30 days of establishing residency.
CDL Truck Driver Requirements in North Carolina
| Detail | North Carolina |
|---|---|
| Licensing Body | North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles (NCDMV) |
| State License Required | Yes |
| Education | FMCSA-approved Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) |
| Exam | CDL General Knowledge and Skills Test ($43) |
| Application Fee | $22 |
| Renewal | Every 5.0 years |
| Notes | Applicants must be 18+ for intrastate or 21+ for interstate commerce or to transport hazardous materials. A valid DOT medical certificate is required for most commercial drivers. As of June 28, 2025, medical examiner certificates must be submitted electronically by the medical examiner provider through the FMCSA's National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners (NRII) portal. New applicants must complete FMCSA-approved Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) from a school listed on the federal Training Provider Registry. The CDL General Knowledge test costs $43.25 for three attempts. The annual license fee is $21.50, meaning an 8-year license would cost $172. Skills test fees are paid to third-party providers and vary, typically $50-$100. A Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP) costs $21.50 and is valid for 180 days, renewable once for an additional 180 days. You must hold the CLP for at least 14 days before taking the skills test. |
License Tiers
North Carolina 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 North Carolina
The median cdl truck driver salary in North Carolina is $49,580 per year, which is 13.7% below the national median of $57,440.
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th (entry level) | $38,550 |
| 25th | $45,240 |
| 50th (median) | $49,580 |
| 75th | $61,590 |
| 90th (experienced) | $73,040 |
North Carolina employs approximately 64,610 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 North Carolina Worth It?
Factors to consider: North Carolina's cost of living, the state licensing requirement, moderate job growth, low AI disruption risk, and your personal career goals.