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CDL Training in California

California has the second-highest number of truck drivers in the nation, totaling more than 179,000 in 2020. To become a truck driver in California, you must first earn your commercial driver’s license (CDL). This requires steps outlined by the California Department of Motor Vehicles, monitored by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration.

Read on to learn about earning your CDL Class A in California. This includes information about finding training, locating scholarships and financial aid, and discovering organizations that provide resources.

CDL A Requirements in California

To earn a CDL Class A license in California, the DMV requires applicants to complete several steps and pass exams.

Step 1: Complete a CDL Training Program

Depending on your schedule and CDL training course, you may have to swap steps one and two. Some CDL schools require you to have your driving permit before attending. Meanwhile, others help you study for your commercial learner’s permit (CLP) tests.

Step 2: Apply for a Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP)

Applicants 18 years of age or older with a valid California driver’s license can apply for a CLP. In addition to a Commercial Driver’s License Application, requirements include:

  • A 10-year history record check
  • Medical Examination Report (MER) and Medical Examiner’s Certificate (MEC)
  • Acceptable identity document
  • Document proving California residency
  • Proof of Social Security number
  • Vision exam
  • Application fee ($82) for first-time applicants.

After you pass your knowledge tests, you’ll receive your CLP. Then, you’ll need to wait at least 14 days to take the skills-based road test. When driving with a CLP, applicants must be accompanied by a driver who holds a CDL.

A CLP is only valid for 180 days from the date of issuance and is limited to the tank (T), passenger (P), and school bus (S) endorsements—although permit drivers must have empty tanks and no passengers while operating a commercial vehicle.

Step 3: Pass the Skills Test

After holding your permit for at least two weeks, you can take your skills test, which includes a vehicle inspection, basic controls skills test, and road test. You must have an appointment to take your skills test, so make sure to schedule well in advance on the California DMV site. You need to bring the type of vehicle for the Class of license you’re testing for with you.

What Disqualifies You From Getting a CDL in California?

Several driving-related actions and behaviors can disqualify you from earning a CDL in California, including crimes like driving under the influence, committing a felony, and leaving the scene of an accident. These can change, so make sure to review the state pages for the latest information and guidance. California’s DMV currently outlines several disqualifications, including:

  • Driving under the influence of alcohol or controlled substance
  • Leaving the scene of an accident
  • Committing a felony while driving a CMV
  • Driving with a suspended or revoked CDL
  • Excessive or reckless driving
  • Driving a CMV without a CDL
  • Violating out-of-service orders
  • Violating railroad-highway grade crossings
  • Traffic violations in personal vehicle
  • Violating hands-free and texting laws

CDL Training Classes in California

A comprehensive CDL training program introduces students to safe driving and transportation protocols, state laws and requirements, and scenarios drivers may encounter on the job. Curricula may vary across different CDL schools, but all should adequately prepare students for the licensure exam. Some topics you may encounter include:

  • Industry regulations and requirements
  • Pre-trip inspections
  • Driving conditions and hazard awareness
  • Trip planning
  • Lab-vehicle systems
  • Hauling hazardous materials
  • Coupling and uncoupling
  • Backing
  • Interstate, highway, city, and mountain driving

As of February 7, 2022, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires anyone planning to get their CDL Class A or B to attend a training program listed on their Training Provider Registry.

How Much Does CDL Training Cost in California?

The cost of CDL training programs in California can vary substantially—from free to several thousand dollarsl. At the lowest end of the out-of-pocket cost spectrum, individuals can choose company-paid CDL training in exchange for working with the employer for a set amount of time after earning their CDL.

College of the Redwoods is a more expensive option, charging $4,295 for its truck driving training program. A mid-grade option in terms of cost is Truck Driver Academy. Students who make a one-time payment owe $3,000 for their CDL training, while those using a payment plan owe $3,500.

When looking at prospective programs, remember community colleges typically charge less than independent private schools.

How Long Does It Take to Get a Class A CDL in California?

Most CDL training programs in California take between six and eight weeks. After completing these programs or while enrolled, students apply for a commercial learner’s permit (CLP) and pass the knowledge test. You must then hold your CLP for at least 14 days before taking the skills test.

How to Pay for Truck Driving School in California

Future truck drivers who want to minimize their out-of-pocket costs can apply for scholarships and research other financial aid resources to help them avoid substantial debt.

In terms of scholarships, two great options include the $1,000 Women in Trucking Foundation Scholarship and the $6,200 TCA Scholarship made possible by the Truckload Carriers Association.

The California Trucking Association (CTA) also offers the TUFSOB scholarship to students looking to attend college or trade school. While all ages qualify, a CTA member company must sponsor applicants.

Not all independent truck driving schools and CDL programs qualify for federal financial aid. So, some students turn to private loans. However, before going down this path, exhaust all other options to avoid years of high-interest debt.

Many programs provide veterans’ assistance, accept employer tuition reimbursement, or cover CDL training costs in exchange for work.

How to Choose the Best CDL Training Program

Before investing time and money into a CDL training program, find the best options for your needs.

When considering a program, look at things like Google and Yelp reviews to see what others say about their experience. Also, attempt to contact alumni to ask about their training and whether they would recommend the school.

Finances understandably play a big role in decision-making. So, it’s worth asking about payment plans, school-funded financial aid, and refund policies.

Other helpful questions to ask include the CDL knowledge and skills exams pass rates, where alumni get truck driving jobs in California, how long it takes them to find work, and if the program offers any career resources.

Resources for Truck Driving Students in California

California Department of Motor Vehicles
The California DMV handles all CDL license processes for initial licenses and renewals. Further, the department provides information on the various steps and requirements for becoming a CDL driver.

California Trucking Association
Founded in 1934, the California Trucking Association advocates for its members and the industry within the state. Members can take advantage of events, networking, continuing education, discounts, a career center, and legal resources.

California Trucking Network
This Facebook group lets California truck drivers ask questions, share news, and converse with others in similar occupations.

California Trucking Jobs
This regularly updated page provides information on trucking jobs available in the Golden State. Plus, users can access information on current openings and hiring requirements.

Women In Trucking
Women truck drivers make up a growing minority in the industry. Therefore, it’s important for truckers who identify as women to have a place to can find resources and support. Members gain access to virtual events, networking groups, and community.

Western States Trucking Association
WSTA represents truckers in several western states, including California. Some of the benefits of joining include access to health benefits and insurance, equipment financing, scholarships, and a tire program. Additionally, members gain access to chapter meetings.

Truck Driving Schools Near Me


California Truck Driving Schools

160 Driving Academy - Fresno

160 Driving Academy - Anaheim

160 Driving Academy - San Bernardino

160 Driving Academy - Oceanside

A-1 Truck Driver Training - Hayward

A1 Truck Driving School - Fresno

AB Truck Training School - Bakersfield

Above and Beyond Trucking School - Sacramento

Abylex CDL - Sacramento

Academy of Truck Driving - Oakland

Advance Bus and Truck Driving School - Lodi

Advance School of Driving - Fontana

Advanced Career Institute - Bakersfield

Advanced Career Institute - Fresno

Advanced Career Institute - Merced

Advanced Career Institute - Visalia

America Truck Driving School - Santa Ana

America Truck Driving School - Compton

America Truck Driving School - Riverside

America Truck Driving School - Escondido

American Truck & Bus Driving School - Hayward

American Truck Schools - Redding

Aztlan Trucking School - Los Angeles

Bay Area Class "B" Truck School - Oakland

CA CDL Services - Lodi

California Truck Driving Academy - Santa Ana

Camino Real Career School - La Puente

Center for Employment Training - Soledad

Center for Employment Training - Santa Maria

Center for Employment Training - El Centro

Central California Truck Driving School - Modesto

Coast To Coast Trucking School - San Jose

Coastal Trucking Institute - Salinas

Commercial Drivers Learning Center - Sacramento

Commercial Trucking School - Santa Clarita

CTDS Commercial Truck Driving School - Modesto

Dashmesh Truck Driving School & Services - Fresno

Disciples Truck Driving Academy - Sacramento

Dolphin Trucking School - Commerce

Domestic Truck Driving School - Fremont

Domestic Truck Driving School - Newark

Easy CDL Truck Driving School - Sylmar

Easy Truck Rental for CDL and Towing - Sacramento

Economy Truck School - Bakersfield

Edison Truck Driving School - El Monte

El Monte Truck Driving - Baldwin Park

Five Rivers Truck School - Fresno

Golden Pacific Truck Driving School - Bakersfield

Golden State Truck School - Merced

Green Valley Truck School - Ceres

GSF Truck & Bus Driving Schools - Sylmar

Hi Desert Truck & Bus Driving - Lancaster

Hi Desert Truck & Bus Driving - Sun Valley

Imperial Valley Rop - El Centro

International Truck Driving School - Fremont

International Truck Driving School - Hayward

J&R Trucking School - Modesto

JGC Truck Driving Training - Santa Rosa

Jiffy's Truck School - Redding

Las Americas Truck Driving School - San Bernardino

Maatson Trucking School - Ventura

Major Express - Fresno

Michaels Transportation Service - Sacramento

Mid California Truck Driving School - Fresno

MTS Training Academy - Vallejo

National Truck Driving School - San Leandro

Nirup School of Truck Driving - Sacramento

P. Steve Ramirez Vocational Training Centers - Fresno

Patterson Unified School District - Patterson

Performance Trucking Academy - Stockton

Pilot Trucking School - Fontana

Prime Truck Driving School - Fresno

Punjab Truck Driving School - Fresno

San Jose Trucking School - San Jose

School of Trucking - San Leandro

Sergio Trucking School - Simi Valley

Skyway Trucking School - Hesperia

Stockton ASET Center - Stockton

Stockton Truck Driving School - Stockton

Sunrise Truck Driving School - Fresno

TGA Truck Driving School - Montebello

Toro School of Truck Driving - Bellflower

Toro School of Truck Driving - Los Angeles

Truck Driver Academy - Baldwin Park

Truck Driving Academy - Olivehurst

Truck Nation School - Fresno

Truck Nation School - Salida

Union Truck Driving School - Bakersfield

United Truck Driving School - Fresno

United Truck Driving School - Riverside

United Truck Driving School - San Diego

Universal Trucking School - Upland

West Coast Truck School - Fresno

West Hills College - Coalinga

Western Pacific Truck School - Modesto

Western Pacific Truck School - Sacramento

Western Pacific Truck School - Stockton

Western Truck School - Bakersfield

Western Truck School - West Sacramento

Western Truck School - Santee

William M. Maguy School - Visalia

Yuba Sutter Truck Driving School Inc - Yuba City