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 Tavares, FL?

CDL training in Tavares, FL 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 Tavares?

Most CDL training programs in Tavares 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 Tavares, FL?

Yes, several CDL schools in the Tavares 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 Tavares 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 43 verified training programs serving the Tavares, Florida area.

FMCSA VERIFIED 2025

CDL Schools in Tavares, FL

Are you looking for commercial driver training in Tavares?We have identified 43 FMCSA-verified programs serving the Tavares area (Pop: 20,000).

Quick Stats

43 Training Programs

ELDT Compliant

3-8 Week Programs

Pop: 20,000

Quick Facts: CDL Training in Tavares, FL

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

43 CDL Schools Near Tavares

CDL Training Market in Tavares, FL (2026 Report)

Market Snapshot

Active Schools4
ELDT Verified4
Average Tuition$3,500
Starting From$3,500
Weekend TrainingAvailable

Aspiring truck drivers in Tavares have access to 4 FMCSA-verified training programs for the 2026 academic year.

The market is competitive, with tuition ranging from an affordable $3,500 up to premium programs around $7,000.

Many schools in Tavares 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.

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Top Picks in Tavares

Editor's Choice

#1 Editor's ChoiceVerified

Fast-Pass Trucking Training

Tallahassee, FL

Call Now

#2 Editor's ChoiceVerified

Red Hills Landworks, LLC

Tallahassee, FL

Call Now

#3 Editor's ChoiceVerified

Boston, GA

28.1 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Showing 20 of 37 schools

CDL Training in Tavares, Florida

<div class="space-y-4"> Tavares, FL offers 43 FMCSA-verified CDL training programs 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. CDL drivers in FL 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 Tavares schools. 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. </div>

Why Get CDL Training Near Tavares?

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

CDL Training Costs in Florida

CDL training in Florida 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 Florida

Trucking Jobs Near Tavares

Get hired after you complete your CDL training

$45,000 - $75,000

Average annual salary for CDL drivers in Florida

2,500+

Open trucking positions in Florida

Top employers hiring near Tavares: 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 Tavares

Side-by-side comparison of top training programs

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⚙️ Transmission:

Showing 15 schools

School Name	City	Program Types	Key Features	Contact
Bartlett Tree Experts Tallahassee FL FMCSA Verified	Tallahassee	Class AClass BTanker	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesEvening Classes	View Details
Blue Bell Creameries - Tallahassee FMCSA Verified	Thomasville	Class AClass BHazmatTanker	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesEvening Classes	View Details
Brooks County Schools FMCSA Verified	Quitman	Class AClass BHazmatTanker	Evening Classes	View Details
CDL MENTORS TRUCK DRIVING SCHOOL of FLORIDA FMCSA Verified	Quincy	Class AClass BTanker	Evening Classes	View Details
Central Transport - 323 FMCSA Verified	Tallahassee	Class AClass B	Weekend ClassesEvening ClassesVA Approved	View Details
City of Tallahassee - Fleet Management FMCSA Verified	Tallahassee	Class AClass BHazmat	Manual Trans.Evening ClassesVA Approved	View Details
City of Tallahassee - StarMetro FMCSA Verified	Tallahassee	Class ATanker	Manual Trans.VA Approved	View Details
Decatur County Schools FMCSA Verified	Bainbridge	Class ATanker	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesVA Approved	View Details
Driving Academy FMCSA Verified	Quincy	Class AClass BHazmatTanker	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesEvening Classes	View Details
Fast-Pass Trucking Training FMCSA Verified	Tallahassee	Class AClass BTanker		View Details
Fast-Pass Trucking Training FMCSA Verified	Donalsonville	Class ATanker	Weekend Classes	View Details
Gadsden Technical College FMCSA Verified	Quincy	Class AClass B	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesEvening ClassesVA Approved	View Details
Georgia Department of Correction FMCSA Verified	Pelham	Class AClass B	Manual Trans.Evening ClassesVA Approved	View Details
Georgia Trucking School FMCSA Verified	Quitman	Class AClass BHazmat	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesEvening ClassesVA Approved	View Details
GFC R3 South FMCSA Verified	Camilla	Class ATanker	Manual Trans.Evening ClassesVA Approved	View Details

Tuition Costs in Tavares

Avg. Private School

$6,500

Avg. Public School

$3,200

Price Range

$2,800 - $7,500

Florida has many 'CDL Mills' – warn users about unaccredited schools.

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DOT Physicals Near Tavares

Required for your CDL medical card

WorkMed Occupational Health - North Tallahassee

5611 Market St, Tallahassee

(727) 837-6298

$115-$200

Walk-ins OK

Physicians Immediate Care - West Tallahassee

2319 First St, Tallahassee

(561) 170-6105

4.8

$92-$152

Walk-ins OK

TruckDoc Medical - South Tallahassee

4511 Second St, Tallahassee

(954) 198-9063

4.3

$85-$161

Walk-ins OK

View All 9 Clinics in Tavares 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 & FLHSMV in Tavares

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

Find FLHSMV Office

Frequently Asked Questions About CDL Training in Tavares

How long does CDL training take in Tavares?

CDL training programs in Tavares, FL 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 Florida?

CDL training costs in Florida 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 Tavares without quitting my job?

Yes, several CDL schools in the Tavares 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 Tavares 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 Florida?

Yes, several funding options exist for CDL training in Florida: 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.

Why is Florida good for new CDL drivers?

Florida offers several unique advantages for CDL drivers: no state income tax (higher take-home pay), year-round work with no seasonal slowdowns, three major ports (PortMiami, Port Everglades, JAXPORT) creating container hauling demand, constant construction creating flatbed/dump truck jobs, and tourism logistics requiring dedicated freight service. CDL drivers in Florida average $54,600/year, with port drivers earning up to $78,000.

What types of trucking jobs are available near Tavares?

The Tavares, FL area offers diverse trucking jobs: regional LTL freight along I-95/I-75, port drayage from Florida's major ports, construction hauling (Florida's building boom shows no signs of slowing), refrigerated transport for Florida's agriculture and food service industry, and tourism logistics supporting theme parks, resorts, and cruise lines. Many positions offer home-daily or home-weekly schedules.

This page lists FMCSA-verified CDL schools in Florida, including training programs in Tavares 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 Florida

📋

Guide

CDL Schools in Tavares, FL

Quick Stats

Quick Facts: CDL Training in Tavares, FL

43 CDL Schools Near Tavares

CDL Training Market in Tavares, FL (2026 Report)

Market Snapshot

Top Picks in Tavares

Fast-Pass Trucking Training

Red Hills Landworks, LLC

Tallahassee Community College - Transportation & Logistics Center of Excellence

Fast-Pass Trucking Training

Red Hills Landworks, LLC

Tallahassee Community College - Transportation & Logistics Center of Excellence

Central Transport - 323

Bartlett Tree Experts Tallahassee FL

Miller's Tree Service

PWNA-Tallahasse

Training Academy and Consultant Services, LLC

Leon County Schools Transportation

Miller's Tree Service, LLC.

TLHR

Monticello, FL - NPGA

Thomas R. Willis

Hawkins inc. Thomasville GA

Thomasville City School

Grady County Board of Education

Blue Bell Creameries - Tallahassee

Thomas County Schools

Gadsden Technical College

WildFire Motorsports LLC

CDL Training in Tavares, Florida

Why Get CDL Training Near Tavares?

CDL Training Costs in Florida

Trucking Jobs Near Tavares

Compare CDL Schools in Tavares

Tuition Costs in Tavares

Nearby Cities

Need Help Choosing?

More in Florida

DOT Physicals Near Tavares

WorkMed Occupational Health - North Tallahassee

Physicians Immediate Care - West Tallahassee

TruckDoc Medical - South Tallahassee

CDL Testing & FLHSMV in Tavares

Frequently Asked Questions About CDL Training in Tavares

Essential Reading for CDL Students

How to Get Your CDL in 2026: Complete Step-by-Step Guide

CDL First Year Salary 2026: The Reality Check

How to Pay for CDL School (7 Options)

WIOA Grants: Free CDL Training for Unemployed

CDL School Scams to Avoid in 2026

Can You Get a CDL in 2 Weeks? Fast Track Guide

The Truth About "Free" Company-Sponsored CDL Training

Why Students Fail the CDL Road Test (And How to Pass)

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