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 Rochester, NH?

CDL training in Rochester, NH 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 Rochester?

Most CDL training programs in Rochester 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 Rochester, NH?

Yes, several CDL schools in the Rochester 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 Rochester 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 200 verified training programs serving the Rochester, New Hampshire area.

FMCSA VERIFIED 2025

CDL Schools in Rochester, NH

Are you looking for commercial driver training in Rochester?We have identified 200 FMCSA-verified programs serving the Rochester area (Pop: 32,492).

Quick Stats

200 Training Programs

ELDT Compliant

3-8 Week Programs

Pop: 32,492

Quick Facts: CDL Training in Rochester, NH

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

200

200 CDL Schools Near Rochester

Filter Results:

Sort by:

Top Picks in Rochester

Editor's Choice

#1 Editor's ChoiceVerified

Somersworth, NH- NPGA

Somersworth, NH

Call Now

#2 Editor's ChoiceVerified

Pike Industries, Inc.

Farmington, NH

Call Now

#3 Editor's ChoiceVerified

Berwick, ME

10.8 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Harding Metals, Inc

Northwood, NH

11.8 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Town of Durham, NH

Durham, NH

12 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Showing 20 of 152 schools

CDL Training in Rochester, New Hampshire

<div class="space-y-4"> Rochester, NH offers 200 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 NH 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 Rochester 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 Rochester?

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

CDL Training Costs in New Hampshire

CDL training in New Hampshire 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 New Hampshire

Trucking Jobs Near Rochester

Get hired after you complete your CDL training

$45,000 - $75,000

Average annual salary for CDL drivers in New Hampshire

2,500+

Open trucking positions in New Hampshire

Top employers hiring near Rochester: 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 Rochester

Side-by-side comparison of top training programs

Filter:

⚙️ Transmission:

Showing 15 schools

School Name	City	Program Types	Key Features	Contact
12504 Moultenborough FMCSA Verified	Moultonborough	Class AClass BHazmat	Manual Trans.Weekend Classes	View Details
12506 Exeter FMCSA Verified	Exeter	Class AClass BHazmat	Manual Trans.VA Approved	View Details
12508 Seacoast Operations FMCSA Verified	North Hampton	Class AClass BHazmatTanker	Manual Trans.Weekend Classes	View Details
160 Driving Academy - Concord Classroom and Yard FMCSA Verified	Concord	Class AClass BTanker	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesVA Approved	View Details
18 Smokey Bear Blvd (Traffic) FMCSA Verified	Concord	Class AClass BHazmat	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesVA Approved	View Details
2 Liberty Lane West Hampton, NH FMCSA Verified	Hampton	Class A	Manual Trans.Evening ClassesVA Approved	View Details
20613 Salem FMCSA Verified	Salem	Class AClass BHazmatTanker	Manual Trans.	View Details
20616 Plaistow FMCSA Verified	Plaistow	Class A	Evening ClassesVA Approved	View Details
20619 Derry FMCSA Verified	Derry	Class AHazmatTanker	Weekend Classes	View Details
313006 - York FMCSA Verified	York	Class AHazmat	Manual Trans.Weekend Classes	View Details
313007 - Wells FMCSA Verified	Wells	Class A	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
33 Smokey Bear Blvd. Concord, NH FMCSA Verified	Concord	Class ATanker	Evening ClassesVA Approved	View Details
403012 - Merrimack FMCSA Verified	Merrimack	Class AHazmatTanker		View Details

Tuition Costs in Rochester

Avg. Private School

$6,800

Avg. Public School

$4,500

Price Range

$3,900 - $8,200

New England pricing.

Nearby Cities

Need Help Choosing?

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

Get Matched FREE

DOT Physicals Near Rochester

Required for your CDL medical card

ConvenientMD Urgent Care

700 Lafayette Rd, Portsmouth

(603) 766-7000

3.7

$70-$135

Walk-ins OK

GoHealth Urgent Care - Dover

6342 Business Park Dr, Dover

(603) 123-5364

$96-$163

Walk-ins OK

Walgreens Healthcare Clinic - Dover

4416 Health Plaza, Dover

(603) 853-8995

4.8

$109-$178

View All 6 Clinics in Rochester 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 & DMV in Rochester

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 Rochester

How long does CDL training take in Rochester?

CDL training programs in Rochester, NH 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 New Hampshire?

CDL training costs in New Hampshire 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 Rochester without quitting my job?

Yes, several CDL schools in the Rochester 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 Rochester 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 New Hampshire?

Yes, several funding options exist for CDL training in New Hampshire: 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 Rochester?

The CDL driver job outlook near Rochester, NH is strong. The American Trucking Associations reports a shortage of 80,000+ drivers nationally, with New Hampshire 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 Rochester?

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 Rochester 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 New Hampshire, including training programs in Rochester 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 New Hampshire

📋

Guide

CDL Schools in Rochester, NH

Quick Stats

Quick Facts: CDL Training in Rochester, NH

200 CDL Schools Near Rochester

Top Picks in Rochester

Somersworth, NH- NPGA

Pike Industries, Inc.

Town of Berwick

Somersworth, NH- NPGA

Pike Industries, Inc.

Town of Berwick

Barrington Fire and Rescue

ELDT United Academy LLC

Barrington Middle School

Town of Farmington

Milton School District

Seaboard Drilling LLC - Somersworth

SAU 61 Farmington

CNC Roadway Solutions

Northeast arbor tec

C&J Bus Lines

Moores Crane Rental Corp

COAST

Index Packaging Inc.

Mike Collins

WM. SHAPLEIGH & SON CONSTRUCTION CO., INC.

Harding Metals, Inc

Town of Durham, NH

CDL Training in Rochester, New Hampshire

Why Get CDL Training Near Rochester?

CDL Training Costs in New Hampshire

Trucking Jobs Near Rochester

Compare CDL Schools in Rochester

Tuition Costs in Rochester

Nearby Cities

Need Help Choosing?

More in New Hampshire

DOT Physicals Near Rochester

ConvenientMD Urgent Care

GoHealth Urgent Care - Dover

Walgreens Healthcare Clinic - Dover

CDL Testing & DMV in Rochester

Frequently Asked Questions About CDL Training in Rochester

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)

Related Resources