CDL-A classes near me
Are you someone who's just starting their journey in the trucking industry? We've got you covered! This page is designed to provide valuable information and insights about CDL-A classes, helping you make informed decisions about your vocational education. CDL-A classes can have varying costs; most classes start at $3,000$4,500 and can go as high as $12,000. Most schools offer financial assistance to help students with the fees and costs of attending classes. Let's dive in and explore more CDL-A-related topics below!
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Learn more about the CDL-A certification
What is a CDL license?
A Commercial Driver's License (CDL) is a type of license required to operate large commercial vehicles such as trucks and buses. Getting a CDL license means you need to pass both written and practical exams, which test your knowledge and skills in safely operating these vehicles.
CDL licenses are categorized into 3 different classes, each representing the type and size of vehicle one is qualified to drive. A CDL license is crucial for individuals looking for a job in the transportation industry, and most opportunities are open to licensed people.
What are the different types of CDL licenses?
When it comes to commercial driving, there are 3 types of CDL licenses that you should know about. These licenses are categorized based on the type of vehicle being operated and the cargo being transported. These types are Class A, Class B, and Class C CDL licenses. Lets further understand their differences below:
- Class A CDL: A Class A CDL allows drivers to operate combination vehicles, such as tractor-trailers, with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 26,001 pounds or more.
- Class B CDL: Class B CDL holders can drive single vehicles with a GVWR of 26,001 pounds or more, as well as towed vehicles weighing less than 10,000 pounds. School buses, city buses, and the like are included in this category.
- Class C CDL: Class C CDLs are for drivers operating vehicles designed to transport 16 or more passengers or hazardous materials.
By understanding the different CDL license types, you can now choose the one that best suits your career goals and driving aspirations!
How long does it take to get a CDL-A license?
The duration of the program varies depending on the type of vocational program you choose. On average, it takes around 312 weeks to complete a CDL-A training program. The length of your training also varies depending on whether you attend a full-time or part-time program.The training hours for CDL-A are usually 160 hours, and these are spent on classroom lectures and practical driving tests.
How much does it cost to get a CDL-A license?
When choosing a CDL class, it is essential to factor in the expenses. On average, the cost of a CDL-A license ranges from $3,000 to $7,000, depending on your location and the school you choose. This typically covers the cost of classroom instruction, behind-the-wheel training, and necessary materials. Additionally, some programs may include fees for the CDL permit, written exams, and road tests. While the cost may seem significant, it is important to remember that this is an investment for your future!
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CDL-A jobs
CDL-A jobs offer a wide range of exciting career opportunities for individuals with a Commercial Driver's license. Here are some sample job roles you can land when you get a CDL-A license!
- Transportation Supervisor: Oversee the efficient movement of goods, coordinate schedules, and ensure safety compliance with safety regulations.
- Long-Haul Cargo Truck Driver: Transport goods over long distances, experience new places, and enjoy the freedom of the open road!
- Owner/Operator: Run your own trucking business, take charge of your schedule, and maximize your earning potential.
With a CDL-A license, you can explore these and a whole lot more careers in the transportation industry.
How much does a CDL driver make?
You are probably wondering how much you can potentially earn as a CDL driver. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), as of May 2022, the mean hourly wage for CDL drivers is $25.52, with a mean annual wage of $53,090. Moreover, the BLS projects a 4 percent growth in employment for CDL drivers from 2022 to 2032, which is about as fast as the average for all occupations. This suggests that there will be plenty of job opportunities in this field in the coming years, and its always a fact that the transportation of goods is becoming more evident nowadays due to the influence of online shopping and the like!
CDL-A Classes by City
On Dreambound, there are 414 CDL-A programs, 42 upcoming classes, and the average class length is 3 months.
Dreambound is your most trusted platform for finding classes throughout the country! Aside from truck driving schools, you may find classes in healthcare, tech, and other industries via our user-friendly platform! Ana Morales, a happy user of Dreambound, shares her experience with us "This is my first time using Dreambound, and I just wanted to share how much I enjoy the website. They help you connect with people quickly, so you don't have to wait long. I also appreciate how easy it is to access the classes you're interested in."
In order to help you find CDL-A classes, at Dreambound we've gathered the most comprehensive list of CDL-A classes in the US. Below, you can find a list of CDL-A classes, organized by city. If you don't see your city listed, you can always search by zipcode.
How to Become a Truck Driver
We know taking the first step to becoming a truck driver can be scary. That's why we're trying to demystify the process by writing guides on how to become a truck driver. Since state processes or requirements may vary, we've written separate guides for each state:
Vduani Martinez is a part of the Growth team at Dreambound. She creates and fixes workflows and automation to guarantee seamless operations. On top of that, she manages databases to ensure all information is up to date. Vduani is a licensed Electronics Engineer who loves coffee and is a travel enthusiast. Out of the office, she enjoys going on road trips and discovering new cafes and restaurants.