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 Shreveport, LA?

CDL training in Shreveport, LA 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 Shreveport?

Most CDL training programs in Shreveport 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 Shreveport, LA?

Yes, several CDL schools in the Shreveport 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 Shreveport 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 17 verified training programs serving the Shreveport, Louisiana area.

HAZMAT CERTIFIED

FMCSA VERIFIED 2025

Shreveport CDL Schools: Oil Field & Hazmat Certification

Energy Sector Training in Shreveport – Hazmat & Tanker Endorsements Available

Get your Class A CDL in Shreveport. Start your career in the energy sector with Tanker and Hazmat endorsed training. We've identified 17 FMCSA-verified programs in your area.

Quick Stats

17 Training Programs

Hazmat Certification

Tanker Endorsement

ELDT Compliant

3-8 Week Programs

Pop: 187,593

🛢️ Why Shreveport Drivers Need Hazmat & Tanker Endorsements

Louisiana's petrochemical industry is booming in 2026. The highest-paying jobs in Shreveport require Hazmat and Tanker endorsements – not just a basic CDL. Local fleets servicing refineries, chemical plants, and offshore supply need drivers qualified for hazardous materials transport. Don't settle for OTR trucking wages when energy sector jobs pay 30-50% more.

Hazmat Certification

Tanker Endorsement

Corporate Fleet Training

Quick Facts: CDL Training in Shreveport, LA

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

17 CDL Schools Near Shreveport

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Top Picks in Shreveport

Editor's Choice

#1 Editor's ChoiceVerified

Fam Enterprise

Bossier City, LA

Call Now

#2 Editor's ChoiceVerified

Waskom ISD

Waskom, TX

Call Now

#3 Editor's ChoiceVerified

Arcadia, LA

48.3 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

CDL Training in Shreveport, Louisiana

<p>Shreveport offers LA 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 Shreveport?

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

CDL Training Costs in Louisiana

CDL training in Louisiana 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 Louisiana

Trucking Jobs Near Shreveport

Get hired after you complete your CDL training

$45,000 - $75,000

Average annual salary for CDL drivers in Louisiana

2,500+

Open trucking positions in Louisiana

Top employers hiring near Shreveport: 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 Shreveport

Side-by-side comparison of top training programs

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⚙️ Transmission:

Showing 15 schools

School Name	City	Program Types	Key Features	Contact
3081 - Linden-Kildare - TX - National Express FMCSA Verified	Linden	Class AClass B	Weekend ClassesEvening ClassesVA Approved	View Details
Ancora for TSTC Marshall, TX FMCSA Verified	Marshall	Class ATanker	Manual Trans.Evening Classes	View Details
Beckville ISD FMCSA Verified	Beckville	Class A	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesVA Approved	View Details
Bienville Parish School Board FMCSA Verified	Arcadia	Class AHazmat	Manual Trans.Weekend Classes	View Details
Bill & Ralph's Inc. FMCSA Verified	Sarepta	Class A	Manual Trans.Evening Classes	View Details
Blue Dragon CDL Consulting LLC FMCSA Verified	Marshall	Class AHazmatTanker	Manual Trans.VA Approved	View Details
Claiborne Parish School Board FMCSA Verified	Homer	Class A	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesEvening Classes	View Details
DeSoto Parish Transportation FMCSA Verified	Mansfield	Class AHazmat		View Details
Fam Enterprise FMCSA Verified	Bossier City	Class AClass BHazmatTanker	Manual Trans.VA Approved	View Details
Marshall ISD FMCSA Verified	Marshall	Class AClass BTanker	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesEvening Classes	View Details
Northwest Louisiana Technical Community College FMCSA Verified	Minden	Class AClass BHazmatTanker	Manual Trans.Evening Classes	View Details
PWNA-Minden FMCSA Verified	Minden	Class AClass B	Evening ClassesVA Approved	View Details
Queen City ISD FMCSA Verified	Queen City	Class ATanker		View Details
Red River Bus CDL Training FMCSA Verified	Coushatta	Class AClass B	Weekend ClassesEvening Classes	View Details
Texas State Technical College (M) FMCSA Verified	Marshall	Class A	Manual Trans.	View Details

Tuition Costs in Shreveport

Avg. Private School

$5,400

Avg. Public School

$3,400

Price Range

$2,900 - $6,800

Oil and gas industry drives specialty hauling demand.

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DOT Physicals Near Shreveport

Required for your CDL medical card

Concentra Urgent Care - North Bossier City

7048 Washington Blvd, Bossier City

(985) 414-2589

4.3

$123-$184

Walk-ins OK

Walgreens Healthcare Clinic - South Shreveport

5094 Health Plaza, Shreveport

(337) 588-4282

4.9

$116-$185

Walk-ins OK

AFC Urgent Care - Shreveport

9996 Wellness Blvd, Shreveport

(985) 401-9554

4.6

$60-$137

Walk-ins OK

View All 10 Clinics in Shreveport 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 & OMV in Shreveport

3519 Knight St, Shreveport, LA 71105

(318) 865-4917

Schedule your CDL knowledge and road tests at the Shreveport OMV. Northwest LA - CDL services

Visit Shreveport CDL OMV

Energy Sector Prep Training in Other Louisiana Cities

Explore CDL schools with energy sector prep and hazmat certified training in nearby Louisiana cities.

Hazmat Certification

Tanker Endorsement

Corporate Fleet Training

View All Louisiana CDL Schools

Frequently Asked Questions About CDL Training in Shreveport

How long does CDL training take in Shreveport?

CDL training programs in Shreveport, LA 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 Louisiana?

CDL training costs in Louisiana 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 Shreveport without quitting my job?

Yes, several CDL schools in the Shreveport 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 Shreveport 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 Louisiana?

Yes, several funding options exist for CDL training in Louisiana: 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 Shreveport?

The CDL driver job outlook near Shreveport, LA is strong. The American Trucking Associations reports a shortage of 80,000+ drivers nationally, with Louisiana 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 Shreveport?

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 Shreveport CDL schools offer both options. If unsure, get the Class A—it qualifies you for Class B jobs too.

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

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