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CDL & Trucking Schools & Programs
Heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers earn a median salary of $53,090 per year (BLS, OEWS, May 2024), with top earners making over $79,600 annually. CDL and trucking programs prepare students to safely operate commercial vehicles, pass the federal CDL exam, and launch a career in freight transportation. With over 239,000 annual job openings projected through 2032 and a persistent industry-wide driver shortage, qualified CDL holders are among the most in-demand workers in the American economy.
CDL & Trucking Salary Snapshot
U.S.237,600 openings/yr
What Is a CDL & Trucking Program?
A CDL and trucking program trains students to operate Class A and Class B commercial motor vehicles in compliance with federal and state regulations. Training covers vehicle inspection, basic vehicle control, road driving, backing maneuvers, and trip planning. Programs are designed to prepare students for the CDL skills test and written knowledge exams administered by the state DMV. All training providers must be registered with the FMCSA’s Training Provider Registry (TPR) under the Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) rule that took effect in February 2022. Graduates typically pursue careers as long-haul truckers, regional drivers, dedicated route drivers, or local delivery operators.
What You’ll Learn
- Pre-trip and post-trip vehicle inspection procedures (per FMCSA requirements)
- Straight-line backing, offset backing, and parallel parking with a trailer
- Coupling and uncoupling tractor-trailer combinations
- Shifting patterns for manual and automated transmissions in heavy trucks
- Highway driving, lane changes, merging, and mountain driving techniques
- Hours of service (HOS) regulations and electronic logging device (ELD) compliance
- Cargo securement, weight distribution, and hazardous materials awareness
- Map reading, trip planning, and fuel management strategies
- Defensive driving techniques and accident avoidance procedures
- Basic vehicle maintenance checks and roadside troubleshooting
How Long Does Training Take?
CDL training programs are among the shortest vocational programs available. Intensive full-time programs typically run 3 to 6 weeks. More comprehensive programs at community colleges or technical schools may take 8 to 12 weeks and often include additional endorsement training (such as HazMat or tanker). Some carrier-sponsored programs offer free training in exchange for a driving commitment of 6 to 12 months. Tuition at private truck driving schools typically ranges from approximately $3,000 to $10,000, while community college programs may cost between $1,500 and $5,000. The FMCSA’s ELDT rule requires a minimum standard of behind-the-wheel instruction from an approved training provider before a student can take the CDL skills test. Check with individual schools for current pricing and financial aid options.
Admissions & Requirements
- Must be at least 18 years old for intrastate (within one state) CDL, or 21 for interstate (across state lines) operation
- Valid non-commercial driver’s license with a clean driving record
- DOT physical examination and medical certificate (DOT medical card)
- Must pass a DOT drug screening (pre-employment and random testing throughout career)
- No disqualifying criminal convictions (varies by employer and FMCSA regulations)
- High school diploma or GED preferred but not always required
Licensing & Certification
A Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) is a federal requirement to operate any vehicle over 26,001 lbs (Class A) or passenger/specialty vehicles (Class B and C). The CDL exam includes a general knowledge written test, a pre-trip inspection test, and a behind-the-wheel skills test. State CDL testing fees typically range from $50 to $150. Additional endorsements are available for specific cargo types: HazMat (H), Tanker (N), Doubles/Triples (T), and Passenger (P). The HazMat endorsement requires a TSA background check costing approximately $85. CDL holders must maintain a valid DOT medical certificate, which requires a physical exam every two years (or more frequently for certain conditions). Requirements are federally standardized but administered by each state’s DMV.
Career Outlook & Salary
According to the BLS, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (May 2024), heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers earn a median annual wage of $53,090. The top 10% of earners make more than $79,635 per year, while entry-level drivers (bottom 10%) start around $31,854. The occupation employs approximately 2,018,500 workers nationwide, making it one of the largest occupational categories in the country. The BLS projects about 4% employment growth through 2032, which is about average, with an estimated 239,200 openings each year. The high number of annual openings is driven by retirements, turnover, and persistent demand for freight transportation. States with major distribution hubs and freight corridors, such as Texas, California, and Pennsylvania, tend to have the highest concentration of driving jobs. Experienced drivers with clean records, HazMat endorsements, or specialized hauling skills often earn well above the median.
Where You’ll Work
CDL holders work across a wide range of freight and transportation settings. Common employers include long-haul trucking carriers, regional and local delivery companies, private fleet operations for retailers and manufacturers, tanker and flatbed specialty haulers, and government agencies. Work conditions involve extended time on the road for over-the-road drivers, while regional and local positions typically offer more predictable schedules with regular home time. The work involves sitting for long periods, loading dock interactions, and navigating varied weather and traffic conditions.
Online vs In-Person Options
CDL training requires extensive behind-the-wheel practice and cannot be completed online. The written knowledge portion (general knowledge, air brakes, combination vehicles) can sometimes be studied through online prep courses, but the actual driving skills must be trained in person at a facility with trucks and a driving range. The FMCSA ELDT rule requires documented behind-the-wheel training hours from a registered training provider. When choosing a program, look for adequate drive time per student and a low student-to-truck ratio.
Browse by Location
- View all locations: CDL & Trucking by state
CDL & Trucking Salary by State
| State | Median annual | Top 10% annual |
|---|---|---|
| Alabama | $50,120 | $75,070 |
| Alaska | $64,890 | $81,050 |
| Arizona | $53,690 | $74,970 |
| Arkansas | $49,520 | $84,200 |
| California | $59,950 | $80,310 |
| Colorado | $60,260 | $80,150 |
| Connecticut | $58,700 | $73,550 |
| Delaware | $58,510 | $74,010 |
| District of Columbia | $63,610 | $90,170 |
| Florida | $50,000 | $75,910 |
| Georgia | $56,570 | $78,480 |
| Hawaii | $59,320 | $71,330 |
| Idaho | $53,260 | $71,520 |
| Illinois | $59,790 | $84,770 |
| Indiana | $60,090 | $78,880 |
| Iowa | $55,080 | $79,290 |
| Kansas | $56,940 | $78,800 |
| Kentucky | $55,590 | $93,030 |
| Louisiana | $48,770 | $71,540 |
| Maine | $51,930 | $66,720 |
| Maryland | $57,180 | $77,340 |
| Massachusetts | $60,630 | $75,220 |
| Michigan | $55,140 | $72,690 |
| Minnesota | $61,090 | $80,860 |
| Mississippi | $50,700 | $81,560 |
| Missouri | $50,540 | $77,080 |
| Montana | $59,060 | $73,700 |
| Nebraska | $57,940 | $92,890 |
| Nevada | $60,900 | $78,480 |
| New Hampshire | $58,620 | $73,050 |
| New Jersey | $64,720 | $89,130 |
| New Mexico | $48,360 | $65,060 |
| New York | $60,520 | $90,150 |
| North Carolina | $49,580 | $73,040 |
| North Dakota | $58,970 | $78,070 |
| Ohio | $58,080 | $79,890 |
| Oklahoma | $51,920 | $77,710 |
| Oregon | $61,180 | $82,680 |
| Pennsylvania | $58,540 | $76,660 |
| Rhode Island | $59,710 | $74,840 |
| South Carolina | $51,810 | $75,360 |
| South Dakota | $56,880 | $80,600 |
| Tennessee | $55,610 | $80,000 |
| Texas | $53,070 | $78,470 |
| Utah | $59,580 | $77,270 |
| Vermont | $56,360 | $70,770 |
| Virginia | $54,500 | $77,590 |
| Washington | $63,760 | $88,710 |
| West Virginia | $49,040 | $70,900 |
| Wisconsin | $57,380 | $74,580 |
| Wyoming | $60,270 | $82,610 |
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2024.
Career Guide
Ready to learn more about what truck drivers do day-to-day, salary expectations, and advancement opportunities?
FAQs
How much does CDL training cost?
CDL training costs typically range from $3,000 to $10,000 at private truck driving schools. Community college programs may cost less, often between $1,500 and $5,000. Some major trucking carriers offer company-sponsored training at no upfront cost in exchange for a commitment to drive for them for a set period, usually 6 to 12 months. Financial aid, workforce development grants, and GI Bill benefits may also help cover costs depending on the program and your eligibility.
What is the difference between Class A, Class B, and Class C CDL?
A Class A CDL allows you to operate combination vehicles with a gross combination weight rating (GCWR) over 26,001 lbs, including tractor-trailers. A Class B CDL covers single vehicles over 26,001 lbs, such as dump trucks, buses, and large straight trucks. A Class C CDL covers smaller specialty vehicles designed to transport 16+ passengers or hazardous materials. Most trucking career programs focus on the Class A CDL because it qualifies drivers for the widest range of commercial driving jobs.
What are the FMCSA Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) requirements?
Since February 2022, all first-time CDL applicants must complete training from an FMCSA-registered training provider before taking the CDL skills test. The ELDT rule requires both theory (classroom or online) and behind-the-wheel training, with the provider certifying completion in the Training Provider Registry (TPR). This applies to new Class A and Class B CDL applicants as well as anyone adding a HazMat, Passenger, or School Bus endorsement. There is no set minimum hour requirement, but training must cover all required topics and demonstrate proficiency.
What is the job outlook for truck drivers?
The BLS projects approximately 239,200 annual job openings for heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers through 2032, one of the highest totals of any occupation. Employment growth of about 4% is projected over that period. The consistently high number of openings is driven by retirements, driver turnover, and growing freight demand from e-commerce and supply chain expansion. Drivers with clean safety records and endorsements like HazMat or tanker tend to have the strongest job prospects.
Can I get my CDL if I have a criminal record?
Having a criminal record does not automatically disqualify you from obtaining a CDL, but certain convictions may affect your eligibility. Felony drug and alcohol offenses, for example, can result in CDL disqualification under FMCSA regulations. Individual employers also have their own hiring standards, and some are more lenient than others. The HazMat endorsement requires a TSA background check that may disqualify applicants with certain criminal histories. Consult your state DMV and prospective employers for specific guidance.
How soon can I start working after getting my CDL?
Many CDL graduates begin working within days or weeks of earning their license. The trucking industry’s ongoing driver shortage means that carriers actively recruit from training schools, and some programs include job placement assistance. Company-sponsored training programs typically transition graduates directly into driving positions upon completion. Your specific timeline may depend on the carrier’s orientation process, which usually lasts one to two weeks.
What kind of schedule do long-haul truck drivers have?
Long-haul (over-the-road) truck drivers may spend two to three weeks on the road before returning home for a few days. Regional drivers typically cover shorter routes and may be home several nights per week or every weekend. Local delivery drivers usually work set daily shifts and return home each night. Federal hours-of-service rules limit drivers to 11 hours of driving within a 14-hour window after 10 consecutive hours off duty, with a mandatory 30-minute break.
Salary data reflects U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) for May 2024. Actual salaries vary by location, experience, and employer. Program availability and tuition costs vary by school.
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Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, District of Columbia, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin, Wyoming
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