Commercial Truck Driver (CDL) / New Jersey
2026 data New Jersey board official source

New Jersey 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.

PlainCredential home → About this data

Operates large commercial vehicles. Federal CDL recognized nationwide.

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

New Jersey's path to commercial truck driver (cdl) licensure runs through 264 hours of approved instruction and a passing score on CDL Knowledge Tests and Skills Test, plus a criminal history screening before applicants younger than 21 can be licensed. New Jersey folds the credential into its broader occupational licensing statute, which classifies the training track as "CDL Training Program".

Upfront cost is $137, with renewal running $72 on a 4-year cycle. There's no continuing-education mandate tied to this profession in New Jersey, which keeps the long-run cost of staying licensed lighter than in CE-heavy states.

Reciprocity for this profession works like this: Federal CDL recognized in all 50 states.

Licensing Requirements in New Jersey

Education / Training Hours
CDL Training Program
264 hours
Exam Requirement
CDL Knowledge Tests and Skills Test
Required
Initial License Fee
$137
Renewal Fee
$72
Renewal Cycle
Every 4 years
Continuing Education
Not required
Criminal History Check
Required
Minimum Age
21 years

Compare & Explore

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

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Commercial Truck Driver (CDL) in New Jersey? ▼
New Jersey's requirements cover 264 hours of education or training, the CDL Knowledge Tests and Skills Test exam, and an initial fee of $137. Applicants also go through a criminal background check.
How do I get certified as a Commercial Truck Driver (CDL) in New Jersey? ▼
Certification as a commercial truck driver (cdl) in New Jersey means clearing the state's checklist: 264 hours of education, and a passing exam score. The New Jersey licensing board can confirm the current details.
Can I transfer my Commercial Truck Driver (CDL) license to New Jersey from another state? ▼
Reciprocity for commercial truck driver (cdl)s nationally works like this: Federal CDL recognized in all 50 states. Beyond that baseline, interstate compacts exist for many professions and may smooth a transfer into New Jersey. Verify the specifics with the New Jersey licensing board.
Does New Jersey require a background check for Commercial Truck Driver (CDL) licensing? ▼
Yes, New Jersey 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.