2026 data Arkansas board official source

Arkansas Commercial Truck Driver (CDL) License Requirements

State-board requirements, fees, and renewal cycle drawn from official regulator records.

Operates large commercial vehicles. Federal CDL recognized nationwide.

What the Arkansas data shows for Commercial Truck Driver (CDL)s

To practice as a commercial truck driver (cdl) in Arkansas, the state licensing board requires 199 documented education or training hours, a passing score on CDL Knowledge Tests and Skills Test. A criminal history background check is also part of the application. Applicants must be at least 21 years old. The regulation sits under Arkansas's professional licensing framework, which classifies the training track as "CDL Training Program".

Upfront cost is $64, with renewal running $39 on a 4-year cycle. Arkansas doesn't require continuing education for this license, so upkeep costs stay confined to the renewal fee itself.

For commercial truck driver (cdl)s, the reciprocity picture is: Federal CDL recognized in all 50 states.

Licensing Requirements in Arkansas

Education / Training Hours
CDL Training Program
199 hours
Exam Requirement
CDL Knowledge Tests and Skills Test
Required
Initial License Fee
$64
Renewal Fee
$39
Renewal Cycle
Every 4 years
Continuing Education
Not required
Criminal History Check
Required
Minimum Age
21 years
Data sources: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice, state licensing boards. Verify current requirements with Arkansas licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Commercial Truck Driver (CDL) in Arkansas?
In Arkansas, the license path calls for 199 education/training hours, a passing score on CDL Knowledge Tests and Skills Test, and a $64 initial fee. A criminal background check is required as well.
How do I get certified as a Commercial Truck Driver (CDL) in Arkansas?
Certification as a commercial truck driver (cdl) in Arkansas means clearing the state's checklist: 199 hours of education, and a passing exam score. The Arkansas licensing board can confirm the current details.
Can I transfer my Commercial Truck Driver (CDL) license to Arkansas from another state?
Here's how reciprocity typically plays out for commercial truck driver (cdl)s: Federal CDL recognized in all 50 states. Many occupations are additionally covered by interstate licensing compacts that ease cross-state moves. Check with the Arkansas licensing board for how this applies to you.
Does Arkansas require a background check for Commercial Truck Driver (CDL) licensing?
Background screening is part of the commercial truck driver (cdl) licensing process in Arkansas. The state licensing board determines which offenses disqualify an applicant and how appeals are handled.

Source: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice License to Work (3rd Ed.), state licensing board websites NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice License to Work (3rd Ed.), state licensing board websites