CDL Truck Driver in Tennessee
Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for TN
How to Become a CDL Truck Driver in Tennessee
To become a CDL Truck Driver in Tennessee, you must obtain a Commercial Driver's License from the Tennessee Department of Safety & Homeland Security. Key steps include completing FMCSA-approved Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT), passing a general knowledge test and a skills test, and submitting an application with a valid DOT medical certificate. Applicants must be at least 18 for intrastate driving or 21 for interstate driving or hazardous materials transport. Tennessee does not issue non-domicile CDLs, meaning drivers with out-of-state CDLs must transfer them.
CDL Truck Driver Requirements in Tennessee
| Detail | Tennessee |
|---|---|
| Licensing Body | Tennessee Department of Safety & Homeland Security |
| State License Required | Yes |
| Education | FMCSA-approved Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) |
| Exam | CDL General Knowledge and Skills Test ($6) |
| Application Fee | $56 |
| Renewal | Every 8.0 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. Fees are approximate: CLP fee is $7.50, knowledge tests are $6.00 per test, and the skills test fee is paid to third-party providers and can range from $150-$250. Federal Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) is required for new applicants. Proof of U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent resident status is required. Tennessee does not issue non-domicile CDLs. Some existing CDL holders may be required to provide proof of citizenship or legal presence by April 6, 2026, or their CDL will be downgraded. |
License Tiers
Tennessee 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 Tennessee
The median cdl truck driver salary in Tennessee is $55,610 per year, which is 3.2% below the national median of $57,440.
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th (entry level) | $38,380 |
| 25th | $46,130 |
| 50th (median) | $55,610 |
| 75th | $70,600 |
| 90th (experienced) | $80,000 |
Tennessee employs approximately 63,130 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 Tennessee Worth It?
Factors to consider: Tennessee's cost of living, the state licensing requirement, moderate job growth, low AI disruption risk, and your personal career goals.