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 10 verified training programs serving the Imperial, California area.

FMCSA VERIFIED 2025

CDL Schools in Imperial, CA

Are you looking for commercial driver training in Imperial?We have identified 10 FMCSA-verified programs serving the Imperial area (Pop: 15,000).

Quick Stats

10 Training Programs
ELDT Compliant
3-8 Week Programs
Pop: 15,000

Quick Facts: CDL Training in Imperial, CA

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
10

10 CDL Schools Near Imperial

CDL Training Market in Imperial, CA (2026 Report)

Market Snapshot

  • Active Schools3
  • ELDT Verified3
  • Average Tuition$4,000
  • Starting From$4,000
  • Weekend TrainingAvailable

Aspiring truck drivers in Imperial have access to 3 FMCSA-verified training programs for the 2026 academic year.

The market is competitive, with tuition ranging from an affordable $4,000 up to premium programs around $8,000.

Many schools in Imperial offer flexible scheduling including evening and weekend classes.

Many schools partner with major carriers to offer job placement assistance upon graduation.

*Data verified by CDL Schools USA via the FMCSA Training Provider Registry. Last updated: December 2026.

Top Picks in Imperial

Editor's Choice
#1 Editor's ChoiceVerified

Imperial Irrigation District

Imperial, CA

Call Now
#2 Editor's ChoiceVerified

Imperial Unified School District

Imperial, CA

Call Now
#3 Editor's ChoiceVerified

cdl transport

Heber, CA

Call Now

Imperial Irrigation District

Imperial, CA
0.2 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified

Imperial Unified School District

Imperial, CA
0.3 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified

IPLA

Imperial, CA
1.4 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified

cdl transport

Heber, CA
8.4 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified

PWNA-Brawley

Brawley, CA
9.1 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified

Big Daddi Trucking LLC

Calexico, CA
11.8 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified

Central Transport - 922

Calexico, CA
12.4 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified

Calipatria Unified School District

Calipatria, CA
19.4 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified

CDL Training in Imperial, California

<div class="space-y-4"> <p><strong>Imperial, CA</strong> offers <strong>10 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 CA 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 Imperial 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 Imperial?

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

CDL Training Costs in California

CDL training in California 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 Imperial

Get hired after you complete your CDL training

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

Top employers hiring near Imperial: 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 Imperial

Side-by-side comparison of top training programs

⚙️ Transmission:
Showing 10 schools
School Name
City
Program TypesKey FeaturesContact
Class A
Manual Trans.
Class AClass B
Class AClass B
Weekend ClassesVA Approved
cdl transport
FMCSA Verified
Class A
Manual Trans.Evening Classes
Class AClass BHazmat
Manual Trans.Evening Classes
City of Brawley
FMCSA Verified
Class AClass BHazmat
Weekend Classes
Class AClass BHazmat
Manual Trans.
Class AClass BHazmat
Manual Trans.
IPLA
FMCSA Verified
Class ATanker
Manual Trans.
PWNA-Brawley
FMCSA Verified
Class AClass B
Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesEvening Classes

Tuition Costs in Imperial

Avg. Private School
$7,500
Avg. Public School
$2,800
Price Range
$2,000 - $9,500

Community Colleges in CA are significantly cheaper due to state subsidies.

Need Help Choosing?

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

Get Matched FREE

CDL Testing & DMV in Imperial

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

Find DMV Office

Frequently Asked Questions About CDL Training in Imperial

How long does CDL training take in Imperial?
CDL training programs in Imperial, CA 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 California?
CDL training costs in California 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 Imperial without quitting my job?
Yes, several CDL schools in the Imperial 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 Imperial 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 California?
Yes, several funding options exist for CDL training in California: 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.
Do I need a TWIC card to drive trucks in California?
A TWIC (Transportation Worker Identification Credential) card isn't required for all CDL jobs in California, but it's essential for port trucking. If you want to haul containers from the Port of LA, Port of Long Beach, or Port of Oakland—where drivers earn $75,000-$95,000/year—you'll need TWIC clearance. The application takes 8-12 weeks and costs $125.50, so start the process during CDL training.
What makes California CDL training different?
California CDL training must address unique state requirements: CARB (California Air Resources Board) truck emission regulations, agricultural transport rules for Central Valley hauling, mountain grade driving on I-5 Grapevine and Donner Pass, and urban congestion management for LA/SF metro areas. California also requires the Supplemental Driving Test for certain endorsements. Look for schools that include these California-specific components.