Commercial Truck Driver (CDL) / Rhode Island
2026 data Rhode Island board official source

Rhode Island Commercial Truck Driver (CDL) License Requirements

Compiled from official source data by PlainCredential

Official regulator records behind the requirements, fees, and renewal cycle for this license.

PlainCredential home → About this data

Operates large commercial vehicles. Federal CDL recognized nationwide.

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

Rhode Island's path to commercial truck driver (cdl) licensure runs through 279 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. Rhode Island folds the credential into its broader occupational licensing statute, which classifies the training track as "CDL Training Program".

Budget $154 to get started, plus $79 at each renewal on a 4-year cycle. Continuing education is not a listed requirement for this profession in Rhode Island, so the annualized maintenance burden is lower than in states that mandate ongoing hours.

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

Licensing Requirements in Rhode Island

Education / Training Hours
CDL Training Program
279 hours
Exam Requirement
CDL Knowledge Tests and Skills Test
Required
Initial License Fee
$154
Renewal Fee
$79
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 Rhode Island licenses
Data sources: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice, state licensing boards. Verify current requirements with Rhode Island licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Commercial Truck Driver (CDL) in Rhode Island? ▼
Rhode Island requires 279 education/training hours, passing an exam (CDL Knowledge Tests and Skills Test), and an initial fee of $154. A criminal background check is also required.
How do I get certified as a Commercial Truck Driver (CDL) in Rhode Island? ▼
Rhode Island licenses commercial truck driver (cdl)s who complete its requirements (279 education hours) and a passing exam. Verify the latest details with the Rhode Island licensing board.
Can I transfer my Commercial Truck Driver (CDL) license to Rhode Island from another state? ▼
Commercial Truck Driver (CDL) licenses generally reciprocate as follows: Federal CDL recognized in all 50 states. Interstate licensing compacts cover many professions and can further ease a move between states. The Rhode Island licensing board can confirm the current rules for your credential.
Does Rhode Island require a background check for Commercial Truck Driver (CDL) licensing? ▼
A criminal background check is mandatory for commercial truck driver (cdl) licensing in Rhode Island. The state licensing board sets the disqualifying-offense criteria and review process.

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.