CDL Training Schools

Start your trucking career with accredited training programs

Your Path to Becoming a Professional Truck Driver

A Commercial Driver's License (CDL) is your ticket to a rewarding career in trucking. With a national driver shortage, there's never been a better time to enter the industry. CDL training programs can get you on the road in as little as 3-7 weeks.

High Earning Potential

Average starting salary of $50,000-$65,000 with experienced drivers earning $80,000+

Job Security

80,000+ driver shortage means high demand and job stability

Fast Training

Get your CDL in 3-7 weeks with accelerated programs

Financial Aid Available

Grants, loans, and company-sponsored training options

CDL Training

CDL Training Options

Choose the path that works best for your situation

Private CDL Schools

Independent truck driving schools offering comprehensive training programs. Pay upfront or finance your education.

  • No employment commitment
  • Choose any employer after
  • Financial aid available
  • Flexible schedules
3-8 weeks $3,000 - $7,000
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Most Popular

Company-Sponsored Training

Major trucking companies pay for your CDL training in exchange for a work commitment. Start earning faster!

  • Free or low-cost training
  • Guaranteed job placement
  • Earn while you learn
  • Benefits from day one
2-6 weeks Free - $2,000
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Community College Programs

Vocational and technical colleges offering CDL programs with academic credits and comprehensive curriculum.

  • Accredited education
  • Federal financial aid
  • In-depth training
  • Career services
8-16 weeks $2,000 - $5,000
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Find CDL Schools by State

Locate accredited truck driving schools in your area

Popular States:

Texas 45 schools California 52 schools Florida 38 schools Ohio 28 schools Illinois 32 schools Georgia 26 schools Pennsylvania 24 schools North Carolina 22 schools

Featured CDL Training Schools

160 Driving Academy

4.6 (1,250 reviews)

Multiple Locations Nationwide

4-week program

Starting at $4,995

  • Job placement assistance
  • Financial aid available
  • Weekend classes
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Roadmaster Drivers School

4.5 (980 reviews)

12 Locations

3-week program

Starting at $5,495

  • PTDI certified
  • One-on-one training
  • Company partnerships
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SAGE Truck Driving Schools

4.4 (720 reviews)

8 Locations

4-week program

Starting at $4,500

  • Small class sizes
  • Veteran benefits accepted
  • Evening classes available
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HDS Truck Driving Institute

4.3 (540 reviews)

Arizona & New Mexico

4-week program

Starting at $4,200

  • High pass rates
  • Modern equipment
  • Free refresher courses
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CDL Requirements at a Glance

What you need to get your Commercial Driver's License

Age Requirements

  • 21+ for interstate (crossing state lines)
  • 18+ for intrastate (within your state)
  • New federal pilot program allows 18-20 for interstate

Medical Requirements

  • Pass DOT physical examination
  • Meet vision standards (20/40)
  • Meet hearing standards
  • No disqualifying medical conditions

Documentation

  • Valid driver's license
  • Social Security card
  • Proof of residency
  • Birth certificate or passport

Background

  • Clean driving record preferred
  • No DUI/DWI in past 5 years
  • No felony drug offenses
  • Background check for certain endorsements
View Full CDL Requirements Guide

Types of CDL Licenses

Choose the right license class for your career goals

Class A

Combination Vehicles

Required for tractor-trailers, truck and trailer combinations, tanker vehicles, livestock carriers, and flatbeds.

GVWR: 26,001+ lbs Towed: 10,001+ lbs

Vehicles You Can Drive:

  • Semi-trucks / 18-wheelers
  • Tractor-trailers
  • Tank vehicles
  • Flatbed trucks
  • Livestock carriers
Most Common for Trucking Jobs
Class B

Heavy Straight Vehicles

Required for large buses, straight trucks, box trucks, dump trucks with small trailers, and segmented buses.

GVWR: 26,001+ lbs Towed: Under 10,001 lbs

Vehicles You Can Drive:

  • Straight trucks
  • Large buses
  • Box trucks
  • Dump trucks
  • Delivery trucks
Class C

Small Vehicles

Required for vehicles carrying hazardous materials or designed to transport 16+ passengers.

GVWR: Under 26,001 lbs Special: Hazmat or 16+ passengers

Vehicles You Can Drive:

  • Small hazmat vehicles
  • Passenger vans (16+)
  • Small buses
  • Combo vehicles not covered by A or B

CDL Training Financial Aid Options

Don't let cost stop you from starting your trucking career

Federal Financial Aid

Many CDL schools accept FAFSA. Apply for federal grants and loans that you may not have to repay.

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VA Benefits / GI Bill

Veterans can use GI Bill benefits at approved CDL training schools. Post-9/11 GI Bill may cover full tuition.

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Workforce Programs

State workforce development programs and WIOA funding may pay for your CDL training.

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Company Sponsorship

Many trucking companies offer free training in exchange for a work commitment after graduation.

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Payment Plans

Most schools offer flexible payment plans with low or no down payment options.

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Scholarships

Industry scholarships available for aspiring truck drivers. Check with schools for availability.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about CDL training

Most CDL training programs take between 3-7 weeks to complete. This includes classroom instruction, behind-the-wheel training, and preparation for your CDL skills test. Some intensive programs can be completed in as little as 2 weeks, while community college programs may take 8-16 weeks.

CDL training costs typically range from $3,000 to $7,000 at private schools. Community college programs may cost $2,000-$5,000. Company-sponsored programs are often free or very low cost in exchange for a work commitment. Financial aid, grants, and payment plans are available at most schools.

Yes! CDL training programs are designed for people with no prior trucking experience. You'll learn everything from basic vehicle operation to advanced driving techniques. Many trucking companies also hire new CDL holders with no experience and provide additional on-the-job training.

The CDL test has three parts: (1) General Knowledge written test covering rules and regulations, (2) Skills test including pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control (backing, parking), and (3) Road test demonstrating safe driving on public roads. Additional written tests are required for endorsements.

Trucking offers excellent career prospects. There's currently a shortage of over 80,000 drivers, meaning high job security and competitive pay. New drivers can earn $50,000-$65,000 annually, while experienced drivers can make $80,000+. The industry also offers good benefits, flexible schedules (depending on position), and opportunities for advancement.

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Ready to Start Your Trucking Career?

Find CDL training schools near you or explore company-sponsored programs. Your new career is just weeks away.

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