New York requires a state-level cdl driver license. The licensing authority is State Dept of Motor Vehicles / Dept of Public Safety. The median salary is $58,670 per year.
Last updated 2026-05-08
New York requires a cdl driver to hold a state license. Operate commercial motor vehicles including tractor-trailers, tankers, and flatbeds for freight transportation. Licensing is administered by the State Dept of Motor Vehicles / Dept of Public Safety.
| Minimum Age | 18 years old |
| Education | Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) required since Feb 2022 |
| Experience Details | Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) required since Feb 2022 |
New York requires passing the New York CDL Driver Exam with a minimum score of 70%. The application fee is $50.
| Exam Name | New York CDL Driver Exam |
| Passing Score | 70% |
| Code Edition | FMCSA CDL Knowledge + Skills Test |
| Application Fee | $50 |
Practice with real exam-style questions based on the FMCSA CDL Knowledge + Skills Test.
Start Practice Exam — $2.99 →Getting licensed as a cdl driver in New York takes 12 months on the typical path. Here are the steps.
The total cost includes an exam application fee of $50 and renewal fees of $50 every 2 years.
| Fee | Amount |
|---|---|
| Exam Application | $50 |
| License Renewal | $50 every 2 years |
CDL Drivers in New York earn a median salary of $58,670, which is less than the national average. Data from BLS OEWS May 2024.
| Mean (average) | — / year |
| Entry level (10th pct) | — |
| Top earners (90th pct) | — |
| Total employed | — in New York |
| National average | $55,900 |
Yes — New York requires a state-level cdl driver license. Operate commercial motor vehicles including tractor-trailers, tankers, and flatbeds for freight transportation.
The required exam is the New York CDL Driver Exam. You need a score of 70% to pass. The exam fee is $50.
The median annual salary for cdl drivers in New York is $58,670. The national median is $55,900.
The fastest path takes approximately 6 months. The typical path takes 12 months including experience requirements.