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 12 verified training programs serving the Payson, Arizona area.

FMCSA VERIFIED 2025

CDL Schools in Payson, AZ

Are you looking for commercial driver training in Payson?We have identified 12 FMCSA-verified programs serving the Payson area (Pop: 15,710).

Quick Stats

12 Training Programs
ELDT Compliant
3-8 Week Programs
Pop: 15,710

Quick Facts: CDL Training in Payson, AZ

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
12

12 CDL Schools Near Payson

Top Picks in Payson

Editor's Choice
#1 Editor's ChoiceVerified

Pine Strawberry School

Pine, AZ

Call Now
#2 Editor's ChoiceVerified

USDA Forest Service/Coconino NF/Mogollon Rim RD (Blue Ridge)

Happy Jack, AZ

Call Now
#3 Editor's ChoiceVerified

USDA Forest Service/COCONINO NF/Mogollon Rim Ranger District (Happy Jack)

Happy Jack, AZ

Call Now

Pine Strawberry School

Pine, AZ
13.2 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified

USDA Forest Service/Coconino NF/Mogollon Rim RD (Blue Ridge)

Happy Jack, AZ
27.4 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified

USDA Forest Service/COCONINO NF/Mogollon Rim Ranger District (Happy Jack)

Happy Jack, AZ
35.6 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified

Beaver Creek School

Rimrock, AZ
38.6 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified

USDA Forest Service/Tonto NF/Cave Creek RD

Scottsdale, AZ
39.3 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified

USDA Forest Service/Tonto NF/Tonto Basin RD

Roosevelt, AZ
40.3 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified

Heber/Overgaard unified School District #6

Heber, AZ
44.4 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified

USDA Forest Service/ASNF/BLACK MESA RD

Overgaard, AZ
45.1 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified

Cave Creek Unified

Scottsdale, AZ
47.1 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified

CDL Training in Payson, Arizona

<div class="space-y-4"> <p><strong>Payson, AZ</strong> offers <strong>12 FMCSA-verified CDL training programs</strong> for aspiring commercial drivers in 2026. Whether you're seeking a Class A CDL for tractor-trailer operation or a Class B CDL for straight trucks, the programs below are all registered in the federal Training Provider Registry (TPR)—the only database that counts for ELDT certification.</p> <p>CDL drivers in AZ earn competitive salaries with strong job security. The national driver shortage continues to push starting pay higher, with many carriers offering signing bonuses of $5,000-$15,000 for new CDL holders. Training typically takes 4-8 weeks for full-time students, with weekend and evening options available at select Payson schools.</p> <p>Compare tuition costs, program length, and specializations below. Look for schools that offer hazmat endorsement training, tanker certification, and job placement assistance—these add immediate earning potential to your CDL. Read our guide on <a href="/blog/is-cdl-school-worth-it-2026" class="text-blue-600 hover:underline">whether CDL school is worth it in 2026</a> for a detailed cost-benefit analysis.</p> </div>

Why Get CDL Training Near Payson?

  • 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 Arizona often qualify for WIOA grants and veteran benefits
  • ELDT Compliance: All listed schools meet federal ELDT requirements effective February 2022

CDL Training Costs in Arizona

CDL training in Arizona 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.

Trucking Jobs Near Payson

Get hired after you complete your CDL training

$45,000 - $75,000
Average annual salary for CDL drivers in Arizona
2,500+
Open trucking positions in Arizona

Top employers hiring near Payson: 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.

Compare CDL Schools in Payson

Side-by-side comparison of top training programs

⚙️ Transmission:
Showing 12 schools
School Name
City
Program TypesKey FeaturesContact
Beaver Creek School
FMCSA Verified
Class AClass B
Manual Trans.VA Approved
Class ATanker
Manual Trans.Evening ClassesVA Approved
Cave Creek Unified
FMCSA Verified
Class AHazmat
Manual Trans.Evening Classes
Class ATanker
Manual Trans.
Class AClass BTanker
Weekend ClassesEvening ClassesVA Approved
Class AClass BHazmat
Manual Trans.VA Approved
Class ATanker
Manual Trans.Evening ClassesVA Approved
Class ATanker
Manual Trans.
Class ATanker
Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesEvening ClassesVA Approved
Class AClass BHazmatTanker
Manual Trans.VA Approved
Class AClass B
Manual Trans.VA Approved
Class AClass BHazmat

Tuition Costs in Payson

Avg. Private School
$6,200
Avg. Public School
$3,800
Price Range
$3,200 - $7,500

Phoenix has many schools competing.

Need Help Choosing?

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

Get Matched FREE

CDL Testing & MVD in Payson

Schedule your CDL knowledge and skills tests through your local MVD office. Find testing locations, wait times, and required documents.

Find MVD Office

Frequently Asked Questions About CDL Training in Payson

How long does CDL training take in Payson?
CDL training programs in Payson, AZ 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 Arizona?
CDL training costs in Arizona 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 Payson without quitting my job?
Yes, several CDL schools in the Payson 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 Payson 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 Arizona?
Yes, several funding options exist for CDL training in Arizona: 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.
What is the job outlook for CDL drivers near Payson?
The CDL driver job outlook near Payson, AZ is strong. The American Trucking Associations reports a shortage of 80,000+ drivers nationally, with Arizona experiencing above-average demand. Starting salaries for new CDL graduates typically range from $45,000-$55,000, with experienced drivers earning $65,000-$80,000. Many carriers offer signing bonuses of $5,000-$15,000 for qualified CDL holders.
Should I get a Class A or Class B CDL in Payson?
The choice depends on your career goals. A Class A CDL allows you to drive any commercial vehicle including tractor-trailers (18-wheelers)—this opens the most job opportunities and highest pay. A Class B CDL limits you to straight trucks, buses, and dump trucks but is sufficient for local delivery, waste management, and transit jobs. Most Payson CDL schools offer both options. If unsure, get the Class A—it qualifies you for Class B jobs too.