CDL License Cost in Virginia 2026: $5K Training, $64K Salary
CDL in Virginia: certified professionals earn $63,800/year at state-adjusted rates. Total cost $5,000. Payback: 3.0 months.
CDL in Virginia — Key Numbers
$64K
Avg Salary w/ Cert
+$20K
Annual Salary Boost
$5,000
Total Cost
3.0 mo
Payback Period
Salary data: BLS OEWS state estimates 2024. State multiplier: 110% of national average.
CDL Cost Breakdown
Exam fee
$150
Study materials
$4,850
Total upfront cost
$5,000
Salary without cert (Virginia)
$44,000/yr
Salary with CDL (Virginia)
$63,800/yr
5-year net ROI
$94K
CDL Job Market in Virginia
Virginia CDL demand is driven by agricultural freight, manufacturing distribution, and construction. The $64K median reflects Virginia'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 Virginia than general freight. Many carriers offer sign-on bonuses that effectively cover training costs.