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.

Do CDL schools provide certification?

Yes, accredited CDL training schools prepare students for their commercial driver license (CDL) certification exam. After completing an ELDT-approved program, students are eligible to take the CDL skills test at their state DMV. CDL Schools USA lists only FMCSA-verified schools that meet federal certification training standards.

What is the difference between CDL certification and CDL training?

CDL training refers to the hands-on instruction and classroom education provided by truck driving schools. CDL certification is the official credential you receive after passing your state CDL skills test. Accredited CDL training programs prepare you for certification by covering required ELDT theory and behind-the-wheel hours.

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 Merced, CA?

CDL training in Merced, CA 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 Merced?

Most CDL training programs in Merced 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 Merced, CA?

Yes, several CDL schools in the Merced 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 Merced 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 Merced, California area.

TWIC ELIGIBLE

FMCSA VERIFIED 2025

Top Merced CDL Schools: Port, Agriculture & Logistics Careers

California's Booming Freight Economy Needs Qualified Drivers in Merced

Get your Class A CDL in Merced. Get qualified for Port of LA/Long Beach intermodal, Central Valley agriculture, and Silicon Valley logistics. We've identified 60 FMCSA-verified programs in your area.

Quick Stats

60 Training Programs

TWIC Card Prep

Intermodal Container

ELDT Compliant

3-8 Week Programs

Pop: 86,333

Why Merced CDL Students Need TWIC Card Eligibility

California's freight economy is the largest in the US. Whether you're hauling agriculture from the Central Valley, tech equipment from Silicon Valley, or containers from the ports, Merced CDL programs offer specialized training for California's unique driving conditions including mountain grades, urban congestion, and agricultural transport regulations.

TWIC Card Prep

Intermodal Container

Agriculture Transport

Quick Facts: CDL Training in Merced, 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

60 CDL Schools Near Merced

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Top Picks in Merced

Editor's Choice

#1 Editor's ChoiceVerified

Atwater Elementary School District

Atwater, CA

Call Now

#2 Editor's ChoiceVerified

Atwater Elementary School District

Atwater, CA

Call Now

#3 Editor's ChoiceVerified

Central Valley Opportunity Center, Inc.

Winton, CA

Call Now

Atwater Elementary School District

Atwater, CA

8 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Atwater Elementary School District

Atwater, CA

8 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Central Valley Opportunity Center, Inc.

Winton, CA

9 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Chowchilla Elementary School District

Chowchilla, CA

17.3 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Anderson Pump Company

Chowchilla, CA

17.6 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Chowchilla Union High School District

Chowchilla, CA

17.7 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Delhi, CA- NPGA

Delhi, CA

18.5 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Xavier Farm Supply

Hilmar, CA

21.2 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Alview-Dairyland Union School District

Chowchilla, CA

21.7 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Robert Morse and Associate's

Catheys Valley, CA

22.4 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Don Pedro Recreation Agency

La Grange, CA

27.6 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Hughson Unified School Di

Hughson, CA

29.2 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Lara Haverly

Keyes, CA

29.2 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

20305 Newman

Newman, CA

29.5 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Messer Americas - Ceres, CA

Ceres, CA

29.6 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Rock Star Luxury Limos LLC.

Ceres, CA

31.2 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Mariposa County Unified School District

Mariposa, CA

31.3 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Firebaugh- Las Deltas Unified School District

Firebaugh, CA

31.5 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

VIVALON

Ceres, CA

32.2 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Ceres Unified School District

Ceres, CA

32.6 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Showing 20 of 47 schools

CDL Training in Merced, California

<p>Merced offers CA 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 Merced?

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.

View all CDL schools in California

Trucking Jobs Near Merced

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 Merced: 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 Merced

Side-by-side comparison of top training programs

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⚙️ Transmission:

Showing 15 schools

School Name	City	Program Types	Key Features	Contact
20305 Newman FMCSA Verified	Newman	Class A	Weekend Classes	View Details
Alview-Dairyland Union School District FMCSA Verified	Chowchilla	Class AClass B		View Details
Anderson Pump Company FMCSA Verified	Chowchilla	Class AClass B	VA Approved	View Details
Atwater Elementary School District FMCSA Verified	Atwater	Class AClass BHazmatTanker	Manual Trans.Evening ClassesVA Approved	View Details
Atwater Elementary School District FMCSA Verified	Atwater	Class A	Evening ClassesVA Approved	View Details
Bass Lake School District FMCSA Verified	Oakhurst	Class AClass B	Manual Trans.Evening ClassesVA Approved	View Details
Big Rig Truck Driving School FMCSA Verified	Ceres	Class AHazmatTanker	Manual Trans.Evening ClassesVA Approved	View Details
Black Oak Casino FMCSA Verified	Tuolumne	Class A	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesEvening Classes	View Details
Busloop FMCSA Verified	Ceres	Class AClass B	Manual Trans.VA Approved	View Details
Butler Amusements FMCSA Verified	Gustine	Class AClass B	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesVA Approved	View Details
Central Valley Opportunity Center, Inc. FMCSA Verified	Winton	Class AClass BHazmat	Manual Trans.Evening Classes	View Details
Ceres Unified School District FMCSA Verified	Ceres	Class AClass B	Manual Trans.Evening ClassesVA Approved	View Details
Chowchilla Elementary School District FMCSA Verified	Chowchilla	Class AHazmat	Manual Trans.	View Details
Chowchilla Union High School District FMCSA Verified	Chowchilla	Class AClass BTanker	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesEvening ClassesVA Approved	View Details
City of Atwater FMCSA Verified	Atwater	Class AClass BHazmat	Weekend ClassesEvening Classes	View Details

Tuition Costs in Merced

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.

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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CDL Testing & DMV in Merced

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 Merced

How long does CDL training take in Merced?

CDL training programs in Merced, 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 Merced without quitting my job?

Yes, several CDL schools in the Merced 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 Merced 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.

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

📚

Essential Reading for CDL Students

Expert guides to help you start your trucking career in California

📋

Guide

Top Merced CDL Schools: Port, Agriculture & Logistics Careers

California's Booming Freight Economy Needs Qualified Drivers in Merced

Quick Stats

Why Merced CDL Students Need TWIC Card Eligibility

Quick Facts: CDL Training in Merced, CA

60 CDL Schools Near Merced

Top Picks in Merced

Atwater Elementary School District

Atwater Elementary School District

Central Valley Opportunity Center, Inc.

Atwater Elementary School District

Atwater Elementary School District

Central Valley Opportunity Center, Inc.

Chowchilla Elementary School District

Anderson Pump Company

Chowchilla Union High School District

Delhi, CA- NPGA

Xavier Farm Supply

Alview-Dairyland Union School District

Robert Morse and Associate's

Don Pedro Recreation Agency

Hughson Unified School Di

Lara Haverly

20305 Newman

Messer Americas - Ceres, CA

Rock Star Luxury Limos LLC.

Mariposa County Unified School District

Firebaugh- Las Deltas Unified School District

VIVALON

Ceres Unified School District

CDL Training in Merced, California

Why Get CDL Training Near Merced?

CDL Training Costs in California

Trucking Jobs Near Merced

Compare CDL Schools in Merced

Tuition Costs in Merced

Nearby Cities

Need Help Choosing?

More in California

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Frequently Asked Questions About CDL Training in Merced

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