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 Williston, ND?

CDL training in Williston, ND 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 Williston?

Most CDL training programs in Williston 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 Williston, ND?

Yes, several CDL schools in the Williston 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 Williston 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 12 verified training programs serving the Williston, North Dakota area.

FMCSA VERIFIED 2025

CDL Schools in Williston, ND

Are you looking for commercial driver training in Williston?We have identified 12 FMCSA-verified programs serving the Williston area (Pop: 29,160).

Quick Stats

12 Training Programs

ELDT Compliant

3-8 Week Programs

Pop: 29,160

Quick Facts: CDL Training in Williston, ND

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

12 CDL Schools Near Williston

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Top Picks in Williston

Editor's Choice

#1 Editor's ChoiceVerified

Baker Energy Services

Alexander, ND

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#2 Editor's ChoiceVerified

Ray Public Schools

Ray, ND

Call Now

#3 Editor's ChoiceVerified

Culbertson, MT

46.4 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

CDL Training in Williston, North Dakota

<div class="space-y-4"> Williston, ND offers 12 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 ND 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 Williston 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 Williston?

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

CDL Training Costs in North Dakota

CDL training in North Dakota 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 North Dakota

Trucking Jobs Near Williston

Get hired after you complete your CDL training

$45,000 - $75,000

Average annual salary for CDL drivers in North Dakota

2,500+

Open trucking positions in North Dakota

Top employers hiring near Williston: 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 Williston

Side-by-side comparison of top training programs

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Showing 12 schools

School Name	City	Program Types	Key Features	Contact
Badger Drilling and Well FMCSA Verified	Culbertson	Class AClass BHazmat	Manual Trans.Evening Classes	View Details
Badlands Electric Inc FMCSA Verified	Watford City	Class ATanker	Manual Trans.Weekend Classes	View Details
Baker Energy Services FMCSA Verified	Alexander	Class AHazmatTanker	VA Approved	View Details
Froid, MT- NPGA FMCSA Verified	Froid	Class AClass BTanker	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesVA Approved	View Details
Lonestar Oilfield Services LLC FMCSA Verified	Watford City	Class AHazmat	Manual Trans.VA Approved	View Details
Mann Energy llc FMCSA Verified	Watford City	Class AHazmatTanker	Manual Trans.	View Details
olson transport FMCSA Verified	Culbertson	Class ATanker	Evening ClassesVA Approved	View Details
Ray Public Schools FMCSA Verified	Ray	Class AHazmat	Manual Trans.	View Details
RTC Networks-WC FMCSA Verified	Watford City	Class ATanker	Manual Trans.Weekend Classes	View Details
Sheridan Electric Cooperative Inc FMCSA Verified	Medicine Lake	Class AClass B	Weekend ClassesVA Approved	View Details
Tioga Public School FMCSA Verified	Tioga	Class ATanker	Manual Trans.VA Approved	View Details
Watford FMCSA Verified	Watford City	Class AClass B	VA Approved	View Details

Tuition Costs in Williston

Avg. Private School

$4,600

Avg. Public School

$3,100

Price Range

$2,800 - $5,800

Oil field jobs drive demand.

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CDL Testing & DOT in Williston

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

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Frequently Asked Questions About CDL Training in Williston

How long does CDL training take in Williston?

CDL training programs in Williston, ND 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 North Dakota?

CDL training costs in North Dakota 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 Williston without quitting my job?

Yes, several CDL schools in the Williston 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 Williston 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 North Dakota?

Yes, several funding options exist for CDL training in North Dakota: 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 Williston?

The CDL driver job outlook near Williston, ND is strong. The American Trucking Associations reports a shortage of 80,000+ drivers nationally, with North Dakota 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 Williston?

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 Williston 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 North Dakota, including training programs in Williston and surrounding cities. All listed programs meet Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) requirements.

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Essential Reading for CDL Students

Expert guides to help you start your trucking career in North Dakota

📋

Guide

CDL Schools in Williston, ND

Quick Stats

Quick Facts: CDL Training in Williston, ND

12 CDL Schools Near Williston

Top Picks in Williston

Baker Energy Services

Ray Public Schools

Lonestar Oilfield Services LLC

Baker Energy Services

Ray Public Schools

Lonestar Oilfield Services LLC

RTC Networks-WC

Watford

Mann Energy llc

Tioga Public School

Badger Drilling and Well

Froid, MT- NPGA

olson transport

CDL Training in Williston, North Dakota

Why Get CDL Training Near Williston?

CDL Training Costs in North Dakota

Trucking Jobs Near Williston

Compare CDL Schools in Williston

Tuition Costs in Williston

Nearby Cities

Need Help Choosing?

More in North Dakota

CDL Testing & DOT in Williston

Frequently Asked Questions About CDL Training in Williston

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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