How Much Does CDL School Cost?
If you’re considering a career as a professional truck driver, one of your first steps is earning your Commercial Driver’s License (CDL). While this license opens the door to a vast and rewarding industry, many aspiring drivers wonder: How much does it actually cost to get a CDL?
The answer depends on several factors, including the type of CDL you’re aiming for, your location, the school you choose to enroll in, and any endorsements you’re looking to add on to your license.
Below, we’ll break down average costs, hidden fees, and smart strategies to offset these expenses so you can hit the road with confidence.
Average Costs of CDL Training
Unlike your standard driver’s license, obtaining a CDL requires a bit more leg work — or in this case, bookwork.
While there isn’t a set minimum amount of hours needed to obtain your license set by the FMCSA, most companies may require applicants to have anywhere from 40 to 160 hours of minimum training before they are able to take on new drivers. CDL schools step in to provide that training.
Tuition and Fees
CDL training programs typically range in cost from $3,000 to $10,000. Most programs can last anywhere 3 to 6 weeks, providing both classroom time covering key rules and regulations, and behind-the-wheel training.
- Community Colleges: $3,000 – $6,000
- Private CDL Schools: $5,000 – $10,000
- Company-Sponsored Training: Often free or low-cost upfront (with work commitment following training)
Factors That Could Impact CDL School Costs
- Location: Training costs vary significantly by state and even by city. If you attend a school out of your area, travel and lodging expenses may also impact your overall expense.
- Program Length: Longer, more comprehensive programs generally cost more.
- Type of CDL: Class A licenses tend to be more expensive than Class B and C licenses (learn which license is best suited for your career on our CDL license blog).
- Reputation and Job Placement: Larger schools that have wider networks may charge more for their quality of training and their job placement opportunities.
- Testing Fees: Some schools will include the initial round of written and behind-the-wheel testing in their tuition costs, but for those that may need to retake their exams due to previous failure, additional fees can accrue.
Additional Endorsements and Their Costs
To increase job opportunities and earning potential, many drivers pursue endorsements for specialized types of driving. These endorsements require additional testing and sometimes training alongside the standard CDL training.
Common Endorsements
- Hazardous Materials (HAZMAT – H): $100–$150 (includes background check)
- Tanker (N): $20–$50
- Doubles/Triples (T): $20–$50
- Passenger (P): $20–$50
- School Bus (S): $20–$50
These fees typically cover the written test, additional background checks (especially for HAZMAT), and sometimes fingerprinting. Some schools and companies may even cover the cost of getting some of these endorsements in their tuition fees. Learn more about how to earn CDL endorsements here.
What Options Do Drivers Have to Offset These Costs?
Earning a CDL is a big investment, but fortunately, there are a few ways to reduce or eliminate the cost of training.
- Company-Sponsored Training
Some carriers partner with schools to offer paid CDL training programs or ‘in-house’ CDL training. These typically require a commitment via contract to work for the company for a set period following the completion of training, usually 12 to 24 months. It’s important to note that if you leave the company before the time noted in your contract, you will be responsible for the remaining balance. Be sure to read your contract carefully to understand what you’re agreeing to when you sign up.
- Grants and Scholarships
For eligible Veterans, benefits like your GI Bill may cover full training costs, or provide additional funds while in CDL training. Some state labor departments can also offer CDL training assistance.
- Tuition Reimbursement
If you pay out-of-pocket, many carriers will reimburse part or all of your tuition once you start working. This is typically paid out on a month-to-month basis, or after a certain amount of time worked.
How Does Melton Help with CDL Costs?
At Melton Truck Lines, we understand that the cost of getting a CDL can be a barrier for many aspiring drivers. That’s why we offer support options to help you succeed:
- CDL Training Reimbursement: We reimburse recent CDL graduates up to $10,000 for their training tuition once they’re on their own truck.
- Paid Training: We help bridge the gap between graduation and your first paycheck.
- Paid Travel and Lodging: Coming from outside of Oklahoma? Melton takes care of the costs to get to our training, and the lodging while you’re here.
Getting your CDL is a life changing step that opens up steady income, travel opportunities, and career growth. While the costs can be significant, careful planning and the right support can make this investment worthwhile.
At Melton, you’re more than a driver; you’re part of a team that invests in your future. Learn more about Melton’s flatbed trucking jobs for new drivers here.
Looking for an accredited CDL school near you? Check out our list of the best CDL schools Melton recommends.