Not all CDL schools or transportation companies offering truck driver training are created equal. There are a few things you should look for in a trucking school before you decide to enroll.
What You Need to Know About Truck Driver Training
First, your trucking school should be on the FMCSA registry. This registry was created to list all the schools with educational standards that are FMCSA approved. If your school is not on this registry, you will not be able to earn your CDL.
Second, you should consider the type of training you need, where you want to get your CDL, and the state’s CDL training requirements. You should note that not all CDL schools offer the same training. Some only offer theory training, whereas others offer both theory and on-the-road experience. Also, you might choose to attend a CDL school not located in your state – this can be the case for some company-sponsored training programs. If you are training out of state, read up on the specific state licensing requirements needed.
Lastly, you need to do some research into schools that interest you. Consider what appeals to you in a CDL program. Contact each of these schools and compare the programs they offer.
Where You Can Find CDL Programs
CDL Career Now
Our sister site. We’ve partnered with truck driving schools from across the country who offer quality training near you. Our partner schools meet stringent training requirements. Plus, many of our partner schools can get you on the road in as few as 3-6 weeks! Find a CDL school near you now.
Trucking Companies
There are many trucking companies that offer sponsored truck driver training, meaning you can get your CDL training paid for partially or in full. When you sign up for sponsored training, you’ll sign a contract with that company, usually guaranteeing you a job as soon as you are finished training. You will likely need to work with the company you sign on with for the set period of time as outlined by your contract. Learn more about trucking company-sponsored training here.
Community College
Some community colleges offer CDL training. The biggest appeal of going to a community college over an independent CDL school is the programs may qualify for federal student loans. Programs can last 6-9 months, compared to 3-6 weeks for an independent CDL school. If you want to spend longer in school or want to take advantage of federal student loans, choosing a community college may be the best option for you.
FMCSA Training Provider Registry
The FMCSA has a registry of all the approved CDL schools in their database. Do some digging to ensure the school you choose is FMCSA approved! There are many great CDL schools listed in this large database.
Get Started!
In all, while it can seem daunting to find a quality CDL school, there are many websites you can use to find CDL training. Truck driving is a great career with many opportunities for career advancement. Take the first step and find a great CDL school near you!
