Top Ways to Pay for CDL Training: Programs, Grants & More – Matrack Insights

If you’re contemplating a career in the trucking industry, obtaining a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) is a fundamental step. However, CDL training can be expensive, posing a barrier for many aspiring truck drivers. The good news is that various funding options are available to help cover the costs.

From federal grants and scholarships to company-sponsored programs and veterans’ benefits, numerous avenues can ease the financial burden of CDL training. This article aims to provide a comprehensive guide on the top ways to pay for your CDL training, offering a detailed look into programs, grants, and other financing methods to help you make an informed decision.

Top 7 Ways to Pay for CDL Training

Company-Sponsored CDL Training Programs

One attractive route for aspiring commercial drivers is enrolling in a company-sponsored CDL training program. These programs are designed as a win-win: the company pays for your CDL training, and in return, you agree to work for the company for a predetermined period, usually around one to two years.

How do They work?

Upon agreement, the company will either pay the training school directly or reimburse you for the fees. Once you’ve completed the training and acquired your CDL, you’ll start your employment with the sponsoring company for the time period agreed upon.

Pros

1. Immediate Employment: These programs virtually guarantee a job once your training is complete.

2. No Upfront Costs: You’re not burdened with initial training expenses, which can be significant.

Cons

1. Limited Freedom: You’re contractually obligated to work for the sponsoring company for the duration of the agreement.

2. Limited Choices: The company often selects the training school, which may not be your top choice.

3. Payback Clauses: If you leave before the contractual period is up, you may be required to pay back the training costs.

Top Large Carriers in the United States with CDL Training Programs

Please note that conditions, availability, and terms of these programs can change, and it’s always a good idea to check with the carriers for the most current information.

 1. Swift Transportation

Swift is one of the biggest trucking companies in the U.S. They offer a paid CDL training program that includes both classroom instruction and behind-the-wheel training. Once you complete the training and obtain your CDL, you’ll be required to work for Swift for a specified period.

 2. Prime Inc.

Prime Inc. offers a paid apprenticeship program that pays trainees while they learn. This program is designed to help aspiring drivers earn their CDL and move on to becoming full-time Prime truck drivers.

 3. Roehl Transport

Roehl operates the GET YOUR CDL™ paid CDL training program. Trainees are considered full-time employees from day one, receiving training pay as they work towards their CDL. Once training is complete, you’ll continue your on-the-job training as a long-haul truck driver with Roehl.

 4. Knight Transportation

Knight offers CDL school tuition reimbursement for new drivers and even has partnerships with some CDL schools. This allows you to get trained, earn your CDL, and then start a driving career with Knight, benefiting from their tuition reimbursement program.

5. Schneider National

Schneider doesn’t directly offer paid CDL training but they do have tuition reimbursement programs and partnerships with truck driving schools. They also offer a wide range of job opportunities for new drivers after getting their CDL.

By attending one of these paid CDL training programs, you can get your foot in the door of the trucking industry without the financial burden of paying for training upfront. Each program has its own set of benefits and commitments, so it’s essential to carefully read the terms and decide which is the best fit for you.

Company-sponsored programs can be a golden ticket into the trucking industry for those who can’t afford the upfront costs of training, but they do come with strings attached. Be sure you understand the terms before signing up.

Grants for CDL Training

Federal Grants

The Pell Grant is one of the most popular federal grants available for CDL training. It’s primarily designed for undergraduate students, but aspiring commercial drivers enrolled in a qualifying CDL program can also apply. The best part about Pell Grants is that they don’t have to be repaid. The amount you can receive varies depending on your financial need, the cost of your training, and other factors. Applying for a Pell Grant involves filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). It’s essential to apply as early as possible since funds are limited and distributed on a first-come, first-serve basis.

Like the Pell Grant, the Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG) is geared toward students with extreme financial need. However, not all schools participate in the program. If you’re considering using an FSEOG for CDL training, make sure the program you choose is eligible for this grant.

State Grants

State grants like the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) are state-specific initiatives aimed at supporting residents in gaining employment skills, including CDL training. These grants can cover a significant portion, if not all, of your training expenses. Eligibility criteria can differ from state to state, so you’ll need to check with your local employment office for details. Like federal grants, state grants usually do not require repayment, making them an attractive option for financing your CDL training.

Scholarships for CDL Training

When you’re considering your options to pay for CDL training, scholarships can provide significant financial assistance. Here are five top scholarships that are either geared toward trucking careers or can be used for CDL training:

1. Women in Trucking Foundation Scholarship: This scholarship is specifically aimed at women who are seeking careers in the trucking industry. It can provide up to $2,000 in financial aid to eligible female students pursuing CDL training.

2. Mike O’Connell Memorial Trucking Scholarship: Offered by the Truckload Carriers Association, this scholarship is aimed at high school graduates who are eager to start a career in truck driving. The scholarship amount can vary, but it usually ranges between $1,000 and $2,000.

3. TruckersReport.com Scholarship Program: This online platform for truck drivers offers a scholarship for those wanting to obtain their CDL. To apply, you usually need to submit an essay on a specified topic related to the trucking industry. The scholarship provides awards ranging from $500 to $1,000.

4. American Trucking Associations (ATA) Scholarship: ATA offers various scholarships through its educational programs and foundations. These scholarships are aimed at those looking to join the trucking industry, including aspiring CDL holders. Award amounts can vary.

5. Pilot Flying J’s Drive Your Success Scholarship Program: This scholarship is offered by one of the largest truck stop chains in the United States. It’s geared towards drivers looking to further their education, including CDL training. Scholarships generally range from $1,000 to $5,000.

Each scholarship has its own set of eligibility criteria, application requirements, and deadlines, so be sure to research each one thoroughly to understand what’s required. With diligent effort and a strong application, you could significantly reduce your tuition burden through these scholarships.

Where to Look for Scholarships for CDL Training

Scholarships can be an excellent way to offset the costs of CDL training. Many local and national trucking associations offer scholarships specifically for aspiring truck drivers. Online platforms like Fastweb and Scholarship also list scholarships related to trucking and vocational training. Sometimes CDL schools themselves offer scholarships, so don’t forget to ask the financial aid office for opportunities.

Tips for Applying

Creating a strong application is crucial for securing a scholarship. Make sure you meet all the eligibility requirements and submit all requested documentation. Pay special attention to essay questions and consider asking someone to proofread your answers. Always adhere to application deadlines; being even a day late could disqualify you from receiving funding.

Student Loans

Federal Loans

Federal student loans can be accessed through FAFSA and typically offer lower interest rates and more flexible repayment options compared to private loans. If you’re enrolled in a qualifying CDL training program, you may be eligible for these federal loans. However, unlike grants and scholarships, loans do have to be repaid, often starting six months after you complete or leave your training program.

Private Loans

Private loans from banks or lending institutions are also an option, but they generally come with higher interest rates and less forgiving repayment terms. The advantage of private loans is that they can fill the financial gaps when federal loans, grants, and scholarships fall short. However, it’s essential to read the terms and conditions carefully and to have a clear repayment strategy in place.

Payment Plans

Many CDL training schools offer flexible payment plans to ease the financial burden on students. These plans often allow you to make monthly payments, sometimes interest-free, for the duration of your training or beyond. The key advantage here is that you can begin your training immediately without worrying about paying the entire tuition upfront. 

However, be cautious when agreeing to a payment plan. Make sure to read the terms carefully, confirm whether there’s interest charged on the payments, and understand any penalties for late or missed payments. Opting for a payment plan means committing to a long-term financial obligation, so budget accordingly.

Online Crowdfunding

In an age where social media is a powerful tool, online crowdfunding platforms like GoFundMe or Kickstarter can be a viable option. Share your story, explain why you’re seeking CDL training, and how it will impact your career and life. A well-articulated campaign can attract contributions from friends, family, and sometimes even strangers. Remember, the key to a successful crowdfunding campaign is transparency and regular updates. Make sure to share your progress and how the funds are being used to keep your backers engaged and willing to support your journey.

Personal Savings

Personal savings offer the most straightforward path to pay for CDL training. You’re not borrowing money, so there’s no interest or need to repay anyone. It may require disciplined saving habits leading up to your training, which can be a valuable lesson in financial management itself. Plus, using your own money can give you a greater sense of ownership and commitment towards your training and future career. The downside? Draining your savings might leave you financially vulnerable in case of emergencies, so weigh this option carefully.

Veterans’ Benefits

If you’re a veteran, you may have access to multiple avenues for funding your CDL training. Programs like the Post-9/11 GI Bill can cover a significant portion, if not all, of your CDL training costs. Many CDL schools are specifically approved for veterans’ benefits and have specialized counselors who can guide you through the application process.

What’s not so well-known is that if you operated commercial vehicles during your military service, you might be eligible for the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) Military Skills Test Waiver Program. This program allows qualified veterans to bypass some of the requirements typically needed to obtain a CDL. For instance, you might be exempt from certain skills tests, which can speed up the process of getting your commercial driver’s license and entering the workforce. This is particularly beneficial if you’re looking to transition quickly from military service to a civilian career in trucking.

So not only can veterans’ benefits help ease the financial burden of CDL training, but prior military experience can also streamline the qualification process. This offers a unique and advantageous pathway for veterans to transition into the trucking industry.

Cost of CDL Training

When you’re gearing up to become a commercial truck driver, it’s critical to factor in the cost of CDL training. The average cost can vary considerably depending on various factors, typically ranging from $3,000 to $7,000. However, in some specialized cases or high-end driving schools, you might even see the price climb up to $10,000 or more.

Factors Affecting the Cost of CDL Training

1. Location: Training in urban areas may cost more due to higher operational expenses for the driving schools.

2. Reputation: Premium schools with top-notch instructors and modern equipment will naturally charge more.

3. Type of CDL: The cost of obtaining a CDL license may vary based on the type of license you are seeking.For example, additional endorsements for handling hazardous materials or passengers can add to the base cost.

CDL Type	Classification	Allows You to Drive	Typical Uses
Class A	Heavy Commercial	Any combination of vehicles with a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of more than 26,000 pounds, where the vehicle being towed is over 10,000 pounds.	Interstate trucking, large goods like machinery and heavy freight
Class B	Heavy Commercial	A single vehicle with a GVWR of more than 26,000 pounds, or any such vehicle towing another not exceeding 10,000 pounds.	Local deliveries, garbage trucks, buses
Class C	Special	Designed to transport 16 or more passengers (including the driver), or hazardous materials in quantities that require placards.	Smaller school buses, passenger vans, and vehicles carrying hazardous materials

4. Duration: Some programs are intensive, lasting just a few weeks, while others could span months. Longer courses may be more expensive.

5. Included Extras: Some schools include additional services like job placement, exam fees, or specialized training modules, and these could affect the overall price.

It’s crucial to get a clear breakdown of what is included in the quoted fee to understand the complete financial commitment you’ll be making. Budget wisely to make this investment in your future career.

Learn more: FMCSA Reduces Cost For Truckers To Upgrade From Class B CDL To Class A

Additional Tips on financing your CDL training

When you’re exploring options to finance your CDL training, there are several additional strategies and tips you can keep in mind:

– Combine Funding Methods: You don’t have to rely on just one source of funding. Combining a small loan with a grant or scholarship can make your financial load easier to manage.

– Early-Bird Discounts: Some CDL training schools offer discounts to students who register and pay a certain percentage of tuition well in advance. 

– Seasonal Promotions: Keep an eye out for seasonal or special promotions that might reduce your tuition fees. Sometimes schools have partnerships with companies in need of drivers and may offer discounts.

– Tax Deductions: Consult with a tax advisor to see if your CDL training costs can be tax-deductible, especially if you are planning to become an owner-operator.

– Work-Study Programs: Some schools offer work-study programs where you can work part-time in a related field to earn money that goes directly towards your tuition.

– Negotiate Payment Terms: If opting for a payment plan, try to negotiate the terms. Even if the school has a standard plan, they might be willing to adjust it to better suit your financial situation.

– Utilize Online Resources: Websites, forums, and social media groups can provide valuable insights and tips from people who have been through CDL training. 

– Consult Trucking Associations: Organizations like the American Trucking Associations often have resources and connections that can assist in finding financial aid options.

– Speak with Current Drivers: Sometimes, the best advice comes from those who’ve been there. Current commercial drivers can offer unique perspectives on how they financed their training.

– Check Employer Partnerships: Some employers have partnerships with CDL schools and will cover part or all of your tuition in exchange for a commitment to work for them for a predetermined period.

– Research Short-Term Commitment Options: Be wary of long-term commitments with companies that sponsor your training. Always read the fine print and understand what you’re getting into. 

By being proactive, doing thorough research, and perhaps even employing a combination of these strategies, you can ease the financial burden of CDL training and take a more assured step toward your new career.

Conclusion

Paying for CDL training is often the first roadblock many aspiring commercial drivers face. But as you can see, there are numerous paths to navigate this financial hurdle. From federal grants and scholarships to company-sponsored programs and personal savings, the options are plentiful. Your career journey might be just a grant, loan, or savings account away. Take your time, weigh your options, and choose the route that makes the most financial and professional sense for you.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What are the average costs of CDL training?

   – Costs can vary widely, ranging from $3,000 to $10,000 depending on the school, location, and type of CDL.

2. Are there scholarships specifically for CDL training?

   – Yes, many trucking associations and some training schools offer scholarships for aspiring commercial drivers.

3. How do company-sponsored CDL programs work?

   – The company pays for your CDL training, and you commit to working for them for a predetermined period.

4. Can veterans use their benefits for CDL training?

   – Yes, many CDL schools accept veterans’ benefits like the Post-9/11 GI Bill.

5. Is online crowdfunding a reliable way to finance CDL training?

   – While not guaranteed, it can be a successful option if you have a compelling story and a strong social network.