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 Portland, ME?

CDL training in Portland, ME 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 Portland?

Most CDL training programs in Portland 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 Portland, ME?

Yes, several CDL schools in the Portland 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 Portland 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 186 verified training programs serving the Portland, Maine area.

FMCSA VERIFIED 2025

CDL Schools in Portland, ME

Are you looking for commercial driver training in Portland?We have identified 186 FMCSA-verified programs serving the Portland area (Pop: 68,408).

Quick Stats

186 Training Programs

ELDT Compliant

3-8 Week Programs

Pop: 68,408

Quick Facts: CDL Training in Portland, ME

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

186

186 CDL Schools Near Portland

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Top Picks in Portland

Editor's Choice

#1 Editor's ChoiceVerified

Dirt Direct LLC

Scarborough, ME

Call Now

#2 Editor's ChoiceVerified

Scarborough, ME- NPGA

Scarborough, ME

Call Now

#3 Editor's ChoiceVerified

Yarmouth, ME

11.1 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Ware-Butler

Gorham, ME

12.1 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Quick Drain Services

Old Orchard Beach, ME

12.2 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Showing 20 of 138 schools

CDL Training in Portland, Maine

<div class="space-y-4"> Portland, ME offers 186 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 ME 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 Portland 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 Portland?

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

CDL Training Costs in Maine

CDL training in Maine 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 Maine

Trucking Jobs Near Portland

Get hired after you complete your CDL training

$45,000 - $75,000

Average annual salary for CDL drivers in Maine

2,500+

Open trucking positions in Maine

Top employers hiring near Portland: 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 Portland

Side-by-side comparison of top training programs

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Showing 15 schools

School Name	City	Program Types	Key Features	Contact
313006 - York FMCSA Verified	York	Class AHazmat	Manual Trans.Weekend Classes	View Details
313007 - Wells FMCSA Verified	Wells	Class A	Weekend Classes	View Details
313008 - Lewiston FMCSA Verified	Lewiston	Class AClass BHazmatTanker	Manual Trans.Weekend Classes	View Details
313010 - Kezar Falls FMCSA Verified	Parsonsfield	Class AClass B	Evening Classes	View Details
313011 - Sanford FMCSA Verified	Sanford	Class AClass BHazmat	Manual Trans.Evening Classes	View Details
403017 - Portsmouth FMCSA Verified	Portsmouth	Class ATanker	Weekend ClassesEvening Classes	View Details
Acton Fire Rescue FMCSA Verified	Acton	Class AClass BHazmatTanker	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesEvening ClassesVA Approved	View Details
Ancora for Ryder Lewiston, ME FMCSA Verified	Lewiston	Class AClass B	Weekend ClassesEvening ClassesVA Approved	View Details
Arbo Transport Co. Inc. FMCSA Verified	Portsmouth	Class A	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesEvening ClassesVA Approved	View Details
Barrington Fire and Rescue FMCSA Verified	Barrington	Class AClass BTanker	Manual Trans.VA Approved	View Details
Barrington Middle School FMCSA Verified	Barrington	Class AClass BHazmat	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesVA Approved	View Details
Bartlett Tree Experts Scarborough ME (Portland) FMCSA Verified	Scarborough	Class AClass BTanker	Evening Classes	View Details
Bartlett Tree Experts Wolfeboro NH FMCSA Verified	Wolfeboro	Class AClass BTanker	Manual Trans.Evening ClassesVA Approved	View Details
Bath Iron Works washington st FMCSA Verified	Bath	Class AClass BTanker	Weekend ClassesEvening Classes	View Details
Biddeford Public Works FMCSA Verified	Biddeford	Class A	Weekend ClassesEvening ClassesVA Approved	View Details

Tuition Costs in Portland

Avg. Private School

$6,200

Avg. Public School

$4,200

Price Range

$3,600 - $7,500

Limited options in rural areas.

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DOT Physicals Near Portland

Required for your CDL medical card

Patient First - North South Portland

4725 Park Ave, South Portland

(207) 269-6957

4.1

$65-$152

Walk-ins OK

Concentra Urgent Care

1 Maine Mall Rd, South Portland

(207) 774-7900

4.1

$75-$125

Walk-ins OK

MedNow Urgent Care

9 Fundy Rd, Falmouth

(207) 805-1234

4.1

$70-$135

Walk-ins OK

View All 21 Clinics in Portland 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 & BMV in Portland

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

Find BMV Office

Frequently Asked Questions About CDL Training in Portland

How long does CDL training take in Portland?

CDL training programs in Portland, ME 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 Maine?

CDL training costs in Maine 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 Portland without quitting my job?

Yes, several CDL schools in the Portland 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 Portland 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 Maine?

Yes, several funding options exist for CDL training in Maine: 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 Portland?

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

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 Portland 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 Maine, including training programs in Portland 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 Maine

📋

Guide

CDL Schools in Portland, ME

Quick Stats

Quick Facts: CDL Training in Portland, ME

186 CDL Schools Near Portland

Top Picks in Portland

Dirt Direct LLC

Scarborough, ME- NPGA

PAF Transportation

Scarborough, ME- NPGA

PAF Transportation

Northeast Technical Institute [S]

Cape Elizabeth School department

Falmouth School Dept

Northeast Technical Institute [S - Yard]

Custom Coach of New England

Glidden Excavating & Paving Inc.

Thirsty Turf irrigation INC

Nappi Distributors

Bartlett Tree Experts Scarborough ME (Portland)

Town of Scarborough

Coastal Inc.

Lake Region Energy

Gorham School Transportation

Gorham School Transportation-Bus Depot

Yarmouth School Department

Town of Yarmouth Maine - PW Highway Garage

Ware-Butler

Quick Drain Services

CDL Training in Portland, Maine

Why Get CDL Training Near Portland?

CDL Training Costs in Maine

Trucking Jobs Near Portland

Compare CDL Schools in Portland

Tuition Costs in Portland

Nearby Cities

Need Help Choosing?

More in Maine

DOT Physicals Near Portland

Patient First - North South Portland

Concentra Urgent Care

MedNow Urgent Care

CDL Testing & BMV in Portland

Frequently Asked Questions About CDL Training in Portland

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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