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CDL ROI › Arkansas

CDL License Cost in Arkansas 2026: $5K Training, $49K Salary

CDL in Arkansas: certified professionals earn $48,720/year at state-adjusted rates. Total cost $5,000. Payback: 4.0 months.

CDL in Arkansas — Key Numbers

$49K
Avg Salary w/ Cert
+$15K
Annual Salary Boost
$5,000
Total Cost
4.0 mo
Payback Period

Salary data: BLS OEWS state estimates 2024. State multiplier: 84% of national average.

CDL Cost Breakdown

Exam fee $150
Study materials $4,850
Total upfront cost $5,000
Salary without cert (Arkansas) $33,600/yr
Salary with CDL (Arkansas) $48,720/yr
5-year net ROI $71K

CDL Job Market in Arkansas

Arkansas CDL holders work primarily in agricultural, mining, and regional distribution freight. The $49K median reflects Arkansas's wage scale — lower than coastal markets but with lower cost of living. Local and regional routes are the primary employment path. Training programs at Arkansas community colleges typically run $2,500–$4,500. Owner-operator income is higher but requires significant equipment investment.

Arkansas Payback Calculator

Related Certifications in Arkansas

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← Back to full CDL guide
All certifications in Arkansas · Payback period by state
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