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 Nashville, TN?

CDL training in Nashville, TN 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 Nashville?

Most CDL training programs in Nashville 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 Nashville, TN?

Yes, several CDL schools in the Nashville 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 Nashville 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 130 verified training programs serving the Nashville, Tennessee area.

FMCSA VERIFIED 2025

CDL Schools in Nashville, TN

Are you looking for commercial driver training in Nashville?We have identified 130 FMCSA-verified programs serving the Nashville area (Pop: 689,447).

Quick Stats

130 Training Programs

ELDT Compliant

3-8 Week Programs

Pop: 689,447

Quick Facts: CDL Training in Nashville, TN

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

130

130 CDL Schools Near Nashville

CDL Training Market in Nashville, TN (2026 Report)

Market Snapshot

Active Schools38
ELDT Verified38
Average Tuition$3,500
Starting From$3,500
Weekend TrainingAvailable

Aspiring truck drivers in Nashville have access to 38 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 $7,200.

Many schools in Nashville 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 Nashville

Editor's Choice

#1 Editor's ChoiceVerified

PWNA-Nashville

Nashville, TN

Call Now

#2 Editor's ChoiceVerified

Nashville Inner City Ministry Inc

Nashville, TN

Call Now

#3 Editor's ChoiceVerified

Nashville, TN

5.8 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Showing 20 of 105 schools

CDL Training in Nashville, Tennessee

<div class="space-y-4"> Nashville, TN offers 130 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 TN 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 Nashville 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 Nashville?

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

CDL Training Costs in Tennessee

CDL training in Tennessee 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 Tennessee

Trucking Jobs Near Nashville

Get hired after you complete your CDL training

$45,000 - $75,000

Average annual salary for CDL drivers in Tennessee

2,500+

Open trucking positions in Tennessee

Top employers hiring near Nashville: 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 Nashville

Side-by-side comparison of top training programs

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⚙️ Transmission:

Showing 15 schools

School Name	City	Program Types	Key Features	Contact
1000-Pool Equipment and Supply, Inc FMCSA Verified	Nashville	Class AHazmatTanker	Manual Trans.	View Details
160 Driving Academy - Nashville Classroom FMCSA Verified	Nashville	Class ATanker	Manual Trans.VA Approved	View Details
160 Driving Academy - Nashville Yard FMCSA Verified	Nashville	Class A	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesVA Approved	View Details
7057 - Nashville Transit - TN - National Express FMCSA Verified	Antioch	Class AHazmat	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesVA Approved	View Details
7060 - Nashville - TN - National Express FMCSA Verified	Antioch	Class AClass BTanker	Manual Trans.	View Details
Adams Bus Services, LLC FMCSA Verified	Christiana	Class AClass BTanker	Manual Trans.	View Details
Alexanders Mobility Services TN FMCSA Verified	Nashville	Class AHazmat		View Details
Alison Brown FMCSA Verified	Murfreesboro	Class AClass B	Manual Trans.VA Approved	View Details
Amanda Bagley FMCSA Verified	Readyville	Class ATanker	Evening ClassesVA Approved	View Details
American Machinery Movers FMCSA Verified	Burns	Class A	Weekend ClassesVA Approved	View Details
Ancora for AT&T Nashville, TN FMCSA Verified	Nashville	Class AHazmatTanker	Weekend Classes	View Details
Ancora for Schwan's Lebanon, TN FMCSA Verified	Lebanon	Class AHazmat	Manual Trans.Weekend Classes	View Details
Applied Scale Technology FMCSA Verified	Nashville	Class AHazmatTanker	Weekend Classes	View Details
Bartlett Tree Experts Nashville TN FMCSA Verified	Nashville	Class AHazmat	Manual Trans.Evening ClassesVA Approved	View Details
Bedford County Department of Education FMCSA Verified	Shelbyville	Class AClass BTanker	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesVA Approved	View Details

Tuition Costs in Nashville

Avg. Private School

$5,300

Avg. Public School

$3,400

Price Range

$2,900 - $6,500

Nashville and Memphis are trucking hubs.

Nearby Cities

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

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DOT Physicals Near Nashville

Required for your CDL medical card

Concentra Urgent Care

321 21st Ave N, Nashville

(615) 327-9200

$75-$125

Walk-ins OK

Concentra Urgent Care

501 Union St, Nashville

(615) 244-3555

4.7

$75-$125

Walk-ins OK

MedPro Occupational Health - South Nashville

2980 Market St, Nashville

(901) 467-8664

4.6

$96-$162

View All 14 Clinics in Nashville 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 & Driver Services in Nashville

3030 Dickerson Pike, Nashville, TN 37207

(615) 251-5166

Schedule your CDL knowledge and road tests at the Nashville Driver Services. State capital - full CDL services

Visit Nashville CDL Driver Services

Frequently Asked Questions About CDL Training in Nashville

How long does CDL training take in Nashville?

CDL training programs in Nashville, TN 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 Tennessee?

CDL training costs in Tennessee 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 Nashville without quitting my job?

Yes, several CDL schools in the Nashville 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 Nashville 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 Tennessee?

Yes, several funding options exist for CDL training in Tennessee: 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 Nashville?

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

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 Nashville 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 Tennessee, including training programs in Nashville 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 Tennessee

📋

Guide

CDL Schools in Nashville, TN

Quick Stats

Quick Facts: CDL Training in Nashville, TN

130 CDL Schools Near Nashville

CDL Training Market in Nashville, TN (2026 Report)

Market Snapshot

Top Picks in Nashville

PWNA-Nashville

Nashville Inner City Ministry Inc

Metro Nashville parks and recreation

PWNA-Nashville

Nashville Inner City Ministry Inc

Metro Nashville parks and recreation

Premier Truck Driver TRaining

Rio Grande Fence Company

TransCor

160 Driving Academy - Nashville Classroom

Bartlett Tree Experts Nashville TN

Old Town Trolley Tours of Nashville

Applied Scale Technology

Brundage-Bone Concrete Pumping Inc./Nashville

1000-Pool Equipment and Supply, Inc

Professional Driving Academy Nashville LLC

Gray Line Tennessee

Ancora for AT&T Nashville, TN

Metro Water Services

Cambria Company LLC

HC Transport Nashville

The Oak Hill School

BNAR/BNART

CDL Training in Nashville, Tennessee

Why Get CDL Training Near Nashville?

CDL Training Costs in Tennessee

Trucking Jobs Near Nashville

Compare CDL Schools in Nashville

Tuition Costs in Nashville

Nearby Cities

Need Help Choosing?

More in Tennessee

DOT Physicals Near Nashville

Concentra Urgent Care

Concentra Urgent Care

MedPro Occupational Health - South Nashville

CDL Testing & Driver Services in Nashville

Frequently Asked Questions About CDL Training in Nashville

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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