How long does it take to get a CDL?

CDL training programs typically take 3-8 weeks for full-time students. Part-time programs may take 3-6 months. The exact duration depends on the type of CDL (Class A, B, or C) and the training school.

What is ELDT certification?

Entry Level Driver Training (ELDT) is a federal requirement since February 2022. All new CDL applicants must complete training from an FMCSA-registered provider before taking the CDL skills test.

How much does CDL school cost in 2026?

CDL training costs typically range from $3,000 to $10,000 for private schools in 2026. Company-sponsored programs may offer free training in exchange for a work commitment. Financial aid, WIOA grants, and VA benefits can help cover costs.

Can I get paid while training for my CDL?

Yes, many trucking companies offer paid CDL training programs where you earn a salary while learning. These programs typically require a 1-2 year employment commitment after graduation.

What is the difference between Class A and Class B CDL?

A Class A CDL allows you to drive combination vehicles (tractor-trailers) over 26,001 lbs with a towed vehicle over 10,000 lbs. A Class B CDL covers single vehicles over 26,001 lbs like buses, dump trucks, and delivery trucks. Class A offers more job opportunities and typically higher pay.

How do I verify if a CDL school is legitimate?

Verify the school is registered with the FMCSA Training Provider Registry (TPR). All legitimate ELDT providers must be listed. Use our Scam Checker tool to verify schools against the federal registry and check for complaints.

What is ELDT certification?

Entry Level Driver Training (ELDT) is a federal requirement since February 2022. All new CDL applicants must complete training from an FMCSA-registered provider.

How much does CDL training cost in Dallas, TX?

CDL training in Dallas, TX typically costs between $3,000 and $8,000, with an average of $5,000. Costs vary based on program type (private school vs. community college), training length, and included endorsements like Hazmat or Tanker.

How long does it take to get a CDL in Dallas?

Most CDL training programs in Dallas take 3-8 weeks for full-time students. Community college programs may take 8-16 weeks. Part-time and weekend programs are available for working adults and may extend the timeline. After training, you must pass the CDL skills test at your state DMV.

Are there weekend CDL classes in Dallas, TX?

Yes, several CDL schools in the Dallas area offer weekend and evening classes for students who cannot attend full-time programs. These flexible schedules allow working adults to earn their CDL without quitting their current job.

How do I verify a CDL school in Dallas is legitimate?

All legitimate CDL schools must be registered in the FMCSA Training Provider Registry (TPR) at tpr.fmcsa.dot.gov. You can verify any school's ELDT certification status there. Be wary of schools that cannot provide their TPR registration number or promise a CDL in less than 2 weeks.

CDL Schools USA is an independent directory that lists and verifies FMCSA-registered commercial driver's license (CDL) training providers across the United States. This page contains 60 verified training programs serving the Dallas, Texas area.

MANUAL TRANSMISSION

FMCSA VERIFIED 2025

Top Dallas Truck Driving Schools: Manual & Hazmat Approved

Avoid the "E" Restriction. Train on a Manual 10-Speed in Dallas.

Get your Class A CDL in Dallas. Get qualified for Oil & Gas fleets with Hazmat and Manual transmission training. We've identified 60 FMCSA-verified programs in your area.

Quick Stats

60 Training Programs

Manual Transmission (10-Speed)

Hazmat / Tanker Prep

ELDT Compliant

3-8 Week Programs

Pop: 1,341,075

⚠️ Why Dallas Students Should Avoid Automatic-Only Schools

If you plan to work in the Texas Oil & Gas sector, getting an "Automatic-Only" CDL is a career mistake. Many local heavy-haul and tanker fleets require Manual Transmissions. Choose a Dallas school that offers "No Restriction" training to qualify for high-paying Halliburton, Schlumberger, or Texas oil field gigs.

Manual Transmission (10-Speed)

Hazmat / Tanker Prep

Nights & Weekends

Quick Facts: CDL Training in Dallas, TX

CDL License Types

Class A, Class B, Class C

Average Training Cost

$3,000 – $8,000

Program Length

3-8 weeks

Weekend / Evening Options

Available at select schools

FMCSA Registration Required

Yes

Verified Schools

60 CDL Schools Near Dallas

Filter Results:

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Top Picks in Dallas

Editor's Choice

#1 Editor's ChoiceVerified

Hutchins, TX - NPGA

Hutchins, TX

Call Now

#2 Editor's ChoiceVerified

Loos Sports Complex - Dallas Independent School District

Addison, TX

Call Now

#3 Editor's ChoiceVerified

Wilmer

Wilmer, TX

Call Now

Hutchins, TX - NPGA

Hutchins, TX

11.6 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Loos Sports Complex - Dallas Independent School District

Addison, TX

11.8 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Wilmer

Wilmer, TX

13 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Sunnyvale ISD

Sunnyvale, TX

14 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Greyhound Lines - Richardson

Richardson, TX

14.1 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Red Oak Independent School District

Red Oak, TX

19 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Crandall ISD

Crandall, TX

22.4 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Midlothian Independent School District Transportation Training Department

Midlothian, TX

23 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Lovejoy ISD

Lucas, TX

24.9 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Midlothian, TX

27.6 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

533010 - Little Elm

Little Elm, TX

28.4 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

EVERMAN ISD Transportation

Everman, TX

30.6 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Get Your CDL Quick

Royse City, TX

30.8 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Ancora for McLane North Texas

Fort Worth, TX

31.3 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Ben E Keith Co - BFW

Fort Worth, TX

31.5 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Town of Northlake

Northlake, TX

34.2 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Ennis I S D

Ennis, TX

34.6 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Millis Training Institute Alvarado, TX

Alvarado, TX

34.8 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Great Southwestern Construction, Inc

Alvarado, TX

35.2 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

ARCWOOD TRANSPORT LLC

Alvarado, TX

35.2 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Showing 20 of 48 schools

CDL Training in Dallas, Texas

<p>Dallas offers TX verified CDL training programs. Browse by city below to find schools near you, compare tuition costs, and read reviews from graduates.</p>

Why Get CDL Training Near Dallas?

Local Training: Train close to home with familiar roads and traffic patterns
Job Placement: Many local trucking companies hire graduates directly
Financial Aid: Schools in Texas often qualify for WIOA grants and veteran benefits
ELDT Compliance: All listed schools meet federal ELDT requirements effective February 2022

CDL Training Costs in Texas

CDL training in Texas typically ranges from $3,000 to $8,000 for private schools, with community colleges offering programs from $2,000 to $5,000. Many trucking companies also offer paid CDL training programs with a 1-2 year employment commitment.

View all CDL schools in Texas

Trucking Jobs Near Dallas

Get hired after you complete your CDL training

$45,000 - $75,000

Average annual salary for CDL drivers in Texas

2,500+

Open trucking positions in Texas

Top employers hiring near Dallas: Amazon, Walmart, UPS, FedEx, Werner Enterprises, Schneider National, Swift Transportation, and regional carriers.

Job types available: Local delivery, regional routes, OTR (Over-the-Road), dedicated routes, tanker, flatbed, and refrigerated transport.

Browse CDL Jobs Get Paid to Train

Compare CDL Schools in Dallas

Side-by-side comparison of top training programs

Filter:

⚙️ Transmission:

Showing 15 schools

School Name	City	Program Types	Key Features	Contact
12653 Joshua FMCSA Verified	Joshua	Class AClass B	Weekend ClassesEvening ClassesVA Approved	View Details
3105 - Pilot Point - TX - National Express FMCSA Verified	Pilot Point	Class AClass BTanker	Manual Trans.Evening ClassesVA Approved	View Details
533006 - Boyd FMCSA Verified	Boyd	Class A	Manual Trans.Weekend Classes	View Details
533010 - Little Elm FMCSA Verified	Little Elm	Class AClass BHazmatTanker	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesEvening ClassesVA Approved	View Details
Aledo Independent School District FMCSA Verified	Aledo	Class AClass BTanker	Manual Trans.VA Approved	View Details
Alvarado Independent School District FMCSA Verified	Alvarado	Class AClass BHazmatTanker	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesEvening Classes	View Details
Ancora for McLane North Texas FMCSA Verified	Fort Worth	Class A	Manual Trans.Evening ClassesVA Approved	View Details
Andrews Distributing - Ennis FMCSA Verified	Ennis	Class AClass B	Manual Trans.Weekend Classes	View Details
ARCWOOD TRANSPORT LLC FMCSA Verified	Alvarado	Class AClass BHazmat	Weekend Classes	View Details
Azle ISD FMCSA Verified	Azle	Class A	Manual Trans.Weekend Classes	View Details
Ben E Keith Co - BFW FMCSA Verified	Fort Worth	Class AClass BHazmat	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesEvening ClassesVA Approved	View Details
Blue Ridge ISD FMCSA Verified	Blue Ridge	Class ATanker	Evening Classes	View Details
Caddo Mills ISD FMCSA Verified	Caddo Mills	Class AClass BHazmat	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesEvening ClassesVA Approved	View Details
City of Farmers Branch FMCSA Verified	Farmers Branch	Class AClass BHazmat	Weekend Classes	View Details
City of River Oaks FMCSA Verified	River Oaks	Class AClass BHazmatTanker	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesEvening Classes	View Details

Tuition Costs in Dallas

Avg. Private School

$6,995

Avg. Public School

$3,500

Price Range

$2,500 - $8,000

High competition in Dallas/Houston drives prices down slightly.

Nearby Cities

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Take our free quiz to get matched with schools that fit your needs, budget, and schedule.

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DOT Physicals Near Dallas

Required for your CDL medical card

Walgreens Healthcare Clinic - Grand Prairie

6088 Corporate Way, Grand Prairie

(254) 272-2825

4.3

$102-$160

Walk-ins OK

Walgreens Healthcare Clinic - Garland

5285 Professional Dr, Garland

(281) 923-5290

4.2

$83-$146

Walk-ins OK

Concentra Urgent Care

9800 N Central Expy, Dallas

(214) 265-3400

$75-$125

Walk-ins OK

View All 44 Clinics in Dallas All Locations

💡 Pro Tip: Get your DOT physical before starting CDL training. The exam costs ${55-150} and is valid for up to 2 years.

CDL Testing & DPS in Dallas

39200 Lyndon B Johnson Fwy, Dallas, TX 75232

(214) 861-2000

Schedule your CDL knowledge and road tests at the Dallas Mega Center. DFW metro - full CDL and hazmat services

Visit Dallas CDL DPS

Oil Field Prep Training in Other Texas Cities

Explore CDL schools with oil field prep and hazmat / tanker training in nearby Texas cities.

Manual Transmission (10-Speed)

Hazmat / Tanker Prep

Nights & Weekends

View All Texas CDL Schools

Frequently Asked Questions About CDL Training in Dallas

How long does CDL training take in Dallas?

CDL training programs in Dallas, TX typically take 3-8 weeks for full-time students. Part-time programs may take 3-6 months. Company-sponsored programs often run 4-6 weeks with guaranteed job placement upon completion.

How much does CDL school cost in Texas?

CDL training costs in Texas range from $3,000-$10,000 for private schools, $1,500-$5,000 at community colleges, and FREE through company-sponsored programs (with employment commitment). Many schools accept WIOA grants, GI Bill benefits, and offer payment plans.

Can I get a CDL in Dallas without quitting my job?

Yes, several CDL schools in the Dallas area offer weekend and evening classes for working adults. These flexible schedules allow you to earn your CDL while keeping your current job. Weekend programs typically take 8-16 weeks to complete.

How do I know if a CDL school in Dallas is legitimate?

All legitimate CDL schools must be registered in the FMCSA Training Provider Registry (TPR) at tpr.fmcsa.dot.gov. You can verify any school there. Be wary of schools that promise a CDL in less than 2 weeks or cannot provide their TPR registration number. The FMCSA removed over 550 non-compliant providers in 2025-2026 alone.

Do I need ELDT training to get a CDL?

Yes, as of February 2022, all first-time CDL applicants must complete Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) from an FMCSA-registered training provider before taking the CDL skills test. All schools listed on CDL Schools USA are ELDT-compliant. The ELDT requirement includes both theory instruction (30+ hours) and behind-the-wheel training.

Can I get financial aid for CDL school in Texas?

Yes, several funding options exist for CDL training in Texas: WIOA (Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act) grants, Pell Grants at eligible community colleges, VA benefits for veterans, and company-sponsored training programs. Contact individual schools to learn about their specific financial aid options.

Is Texas a good state to start a CDL career?

Texas is one of the best states for new CDL drivers. It moves more freight than any other state, I-35 is the primary NAFTA trade corridor, and the energy sector (Permian Basin, Gulf Coast refineries) creates year-round demand for hazmat and tanker drivers. Texas CDL drivers average $56,800/year with experienced oil field haulers earning $85,000+. Texas also has no state income tax, meaning higher take-home pay.

What CDL endorsements pay the most in Texas?

In Texas, the highest-paying CDL endorsements are: Hazmat + Tanker (HN combination) for refinery and chemical hauling along the Gulf Coast ($70K-$85K), X endorsement for oversized loads in the oil fields ($65K-$80K), and TWIC card for Port of Houston container drayage ($60K-$75K). Many Dallas CDL schools offer endorsement training bundled with Class A programs.

This page lists FMCSA-verified CDL schools in Texas, including training programs in Dallas and surrounding cities. All listed programs meet Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) requirements.

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