Commercial Truck Driver (CDL) / North Carolina
2026 data North Carolina board official source

North Carolina Commercial Truck Driver (CDL) License Requirements

Compiled from official source data by PlainCredential

Requirements, fees, and renewal timing for this license, sourced from state board records.

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Operates large commercial vehicles. Federal CDL recognized nationwide.

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

To practice as a commercial truck driver (cdl) in North Carolina, the state licensing board requires 231 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 North Carolina's professional licensing framework, which classifies the training track as "CDL Training Program".

The initial price tag is $100, and renewal costs $56 every 4 years. There's no continuing-education mandate tied to this profession in North Carolina, which keeps the long-run cost of staying licensed lighter than in CE-heavy states.

On reciprocity, commercial truck driver (cdl)s should know: Federal CDL recognized in all 50 states.

Licensing Requirements in North Carolina

Education / Training Hours
CDL Training Program
231 hours
Exam Requirement
CDL Knowledge Tests and Skills Test
Required
Initial License Fee
$100
Renewal Fee
$56
Renewal Cycle
Every 4 years
Continuing Education
Not required
Criminal History Check
Required
Minimum Age
21 years

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Compare all states for Commercial Truck Driver (CDL) All North Carolina licenses
Data sources: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice, state licensing boards. Verify current requirements with North Carolina licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Commercial Truck Driver (CDL) in North Carolina? ▼
In North Carolina, the license path calls for 231 education/training hours, a passing score on CDL Knowledge Tests and Skills Test, and a $100 initial fee. A criminal background check is required as well.
How do I get certified as a Commercial Truck Driver (CDL) in North Carolina? ▼
North Carolina licenses commercial truck driver (cdl)s who complete its requirements (231 education hours) and a passing exam. Verify the latest details with the North Carolina licensing board.
Can I transfer my Commercial Truck Driver (CDL) license to North Carolina 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 North Carolina licensing board for how this applies to you.
Does North Carolina require a background check for Commercial Truck Driver (CDL) licensing? ▼
Yes, North Carolina requires a criminal background check as part of the commercial truck driver (cdl) licensing process. Disqualifying offenses and review criteria are determined by the state licensing board.

Related Guides

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

Read our methodology - how this data is sourced, computed, and verified.