Certifications Hub › Skilled Trades › Commercial Driver's License – Class A (CDL-A)

Commercial Driver's License – Class A (CDL-A)

State DMV / FMCSA Commonly Funded
$200 Exam Cost $50-$300 depending on state; does not include training program ($3,000-$10,000)
$58,000 Average Salary
$45,000–$85,000 Salary Range
4-8 Prep Weeks
5 years / $100 Renewal

About the Commercial Driver's License – Class A (CDL-A)

Federal/state commercial driving license for operating tractor-trailers, tankers, and heavy combination vehicles over 26,001 lbs.

Prerequisites
21+ years old for interstate; state-approved ELDT training
Testing Format
In-person (written knowledge test + skills/driving test)

How VR&E Funds the Commercial Driver's License – Class A (CDL-A)

One of the most commonly funded certifications in VR&E. VR&E covers the full CDL training program, exam fees, and endorsements. Fast track to employment with high demand.

What VR&E Typically Covers:

  • Exam fee ($200) — funded through Purchase Orders
  • Preparation courses and training programs
  • Study materials, practice exams, and lab access
  • Exam vouchers and retake fees when approved
  • Initial renewal fees may be covered during your plan period

All funding is subject to individual VRC approval as part of your Individualized Written Rehabilitation Plan (IWRP).

Career Paths with the Commercial Driver's License – Class A (CDL-A)

Truck Driver (OTR)Local Delivery DriverTanker DriverHazmat Transport Driver

VR&E vs GI Bill® for the Commercial Driver's License – Class A (CDL-A)

VR&E Chapter 31

  • Exam fee covered in full ($200) — no per-test cap
  • Prep courses and materials funded separately
  • No upfront payment — funded through Purchase Orders
  • Part of your career rehabilitation plan

GI Bill®

  • $2,000 per-test reimbursement cap
  • Veteran pays upfront, gets reimbursed
  • This exam ($200) falls within the GI Bill® cap
  • Does not cover prep courses or study materials

Related Certifications

Electrical Journeyman License
Commonly Funded
$300 Avg. $65,000
View Details →
FAA Part 107 (Remote Pilot Certificate)
Frequently Requested
$175 Avg. $62,000
View Details →
Plumbing Journeyman License
Commonly Funded
$300 Avg. $60,000
View Details →

Ready to Get the Commercial Driver's License – Class A (CDL-A) Funded Through VR&E?

Get Your Free Eligibility Checklist VR&E Application Toolkit — $197
Need help preparing for your VRC meeting? Explore the Counselor Meeting Prep Session — $497

Pathfinder Benefits provides educational information only. We are not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. We do not prepare, present, or prosecute VA benefit claims. For claim assistance, contact a VA-accredited representative at va.gov/ogc/apps/accreditation.

VR&E approval likelihood indicators are editorial assessments based on reported veteran experiences and are provided for educational purposes only. All certifications require individual approval by your Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor (VRC) as part of your Individualized Written Rehabilitation Plan (IWRP). Past approvals do not guarantee future approvals.