CDL License Cost in Rhode Island 2026: $5K Training, $59K Salary
CDL in Rhode Island: certified professionals earn $59,160/year at state-adjusted rates. Total cost $5,000. Payback: 3.3 months.
CDL in Rhode Island — Key Numbers
$59K
Avg Salary w/ Cert
+$18K
Annual Salary Boost
$5,000
Total Cost
3.3 mo
Payback Period
Salary data: BLS OEWS state estimates 2024. State multiplier: 102% of national average.
CDL Cost Breakdown
Exam fee
$150
Study materials
$4,850
Total upfront cost
$5,000
Salary without cert (Rhode Island)
$40,800/yr
Salary with CDL (Rhode Island)
$59,160/yr
5-year net ROI
$87K
CDL Job Market in Rhode Island
Rhode Island CDL demand is driven by agricultural freight, manufacturing distribution, and construction. The $59K median reflects Rhode Island's trucking wage scale. Training programs at community colleges typically run $3,000–$5,000, with private CDL schools at $5,000–$8,000. Flatbed and specialty freight commands higher rates in Rhode Island than general freight. Many carriers offer sign-on bonuses that effectively cover training costs.