Arkansas CDL License Requirements & Training :: AllTruckJobs.com

Arkansas Commercial Drivers License

Getting a CDL license in Arkansas can be the key that opens the door to a variety of opportunities. However, it’s important to make sure that you are qualified before starting your journey. According to Arkansas CDL license requirements, you must be at least 18 years old, pass a current physical examination, and have a valid driver’s license. If you want to transport cargo across state lines, you must be at least 21 years old. All Arkansas CDL applicants then need to pass a general knowledge exam and a skills test, which includes a pre-trip vehicle inspection, a basic vehicle knowledge test, and a hands-on test in which you’ll drive on the road. The vehicle that you take the test in must also fall under the correct CDL license class. So, make sure you’re prepared to take the test in the correct vehicle. Below is a detailed summary of what you can expect when getting a CDL license in Arkansas.

Find CDL Trucking Schools in Arkansas

It’s time to break out your pencils and notebooks and head back to school. Luckily, our site provides great resources that will help you find the perfect Arkansas CDL training school to advance your trucking career. These schools will give you the textbook and hands-on education that you need to complete your trucking education. If you’re looking for an adventurous career, check out these top Arkansas training schools to ensure that you’re getting the best education available.

CDL Training Costs in Arkansas

Like any high education, CDL schools in Arkansas costs money – and many shy away from CDL school simply because the price is too steep. The average cost of tuition for a CDL school in Arkansas is about $2,300. Luckily, there are a variety of ways to pay for CDL training. If you don’t have the money up front to pay, financial aid is a great way to ensure that your CDL education is financially feasible. Applying for financial aid through FAFSA is a great first step if you want to explore your federal student aid options, in which the government subsidizes some of the loan cost. If you qualify through FAFSA, a federal Pell Grant awarded through participating institutions is money that can be used for school and differs from a loan in that it doesn't need to be paid back. If either of those doesn't work, feel free to look into trucking companies that will be willing to pay for your schooling.

CDL Prep in Arkansas

Before you head in to take your Arkansas CDL exam, there are a few things you can do to ensure that you are fully prepared to ace your exam. If you want to get a feel for what the test will be like, feel free to take our practice test as many times as you need to so you can see how you stack up. You’ll also want to make sure that you practice in the same vehicle to take the test in. You should already have logged many hours in your rig, but make sure that you’re familiar with it. When in doubt, it’s also always a good idea to crack open your textbooks whenever you can as well to review the material you learned.

Arkansas CDL Endorsement & Waivers

Extra qualifications, known as endorsements, show employers that you have the documented skills to operate rigs in special conditions. Extra testing is required if you wish to drive a:

  • School Bus
  • Passenger
  • Hazardous Materials
  • Tanker
  • Multiple trailers
  • Liquid

CDL Tests in Arkansas

Below is just a preview of what you can expect when preparing for your Arkansas CDL test. You must pass both a written test as well as an on-the-road test before you can become a licensed truck driver in Arkansas.

CDL Knowledge Tests in Arkansas

The general knowledge portion of the exam is usually 50 questions and will cover a wide variety of information pertaining to trucking regulations, road safety, equipment, and other subjects. You will need to get at least 80% on the Arkansas CDL knowledge test to pass. Once completed, you will move onto the hands-on skills test of your CDL.

CDL Skills Test in Arkansas

The Arkansas CDL driving test consists of two parts that will test your knowledge of the CDL process. The pre-trip inspection tests your ability to determine that the vehicle is safe to drive. You have to explain to the examiner how you would examine the various parts of your vehicle. The Arkansas CDL road test is to verify you may safely operate your vehicle. Here you will be asked to turn, back up, change lanes, as well as identify different traffic signs, so make sure you’ve prepared accordingly. Be sure to practice driving in the vehicle that you will be taking the CDL test in.

Job Outlook in Arkansas

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the United States should expect to see a 5% increase in truck driving jobs by 2024. With a projected increase of 7% for all occupations, it’s yet another sign that points towards an industry that’s trending upward. Those looking for a promising career are flocking towards the trucking industry in Arkansas.

Arkansas Truck Driver Salary

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average truck driver in Arkansas makes about $39,430 per year. This is just below the national average of $43,590.This stellar wage is a great incentive to get your Arkansas CDL as soon as possible!