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 Elizabethton, TN?

CDL training in Elizabethton, 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 Elizabethton?

Most CDL training programs in Elizabethton 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 Elizabethton, TN?

Yes, several CDL schools in the Elizabethton 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 Elizabethton 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 128 verified training programs serving the Elizabethton, Tennessee area.

FMCSA VERIFIED 2025

CDL Schools in Elizabethton, TN

Are you looking for commercial driver training in Elizabethton?We have identified 128 FMCSA-verified programs serving the Elizabethton area (Pop: 5,000).

Quick Stats

128 Training Programs

ELDT Compliant

3-8 Week Programs

Pop: 5,000

Quick Facts: CDL Training in Elizabethton, 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

128

128 CDL Schools Near Elizabethton

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Top Picks in Elizabethton

Editor's Choice

#1 Editor's ChoiceVerified

Applied Scale Technology

Nashville, TN

Call Now

#2 Editor's ChoiceVerified

Gray Line Tennessee

Nashville, TN

Call Now

#3 Editor's ChoiceVerified

Nashville, TN

8.1 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Showing 20 of 103 schools

CDL Training in Elizabethton, Tennessee

<div class="space-y-4"> Elizabethton, TN offers 128 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 Elizabethton 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 Elizabethton?

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 Elizabethton

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 Elizabethton: 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 Elizabethton

Side-by-side comparison of top training programs

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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
Allen County Schools FMCSA Verified	Scottsville	Class A	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesEvening ClassesVA 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

Tuition Costs in Elizabethton

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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DOT Physicals Near Elizabethton

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 Elizabethton 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 Elizabethton

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

Find Driver Services Office

Frequently Asked Questions About CDL Training in Elizabethton

How long does CDL training take in Elizabethton?

CDL training programs in Elizabethton, 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 Elizabethton without quitting my job?

Yes, several CDL schools in the Elizabethton 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 Elizabethton 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 Elizabethton?

The CDL driver job outlook near Elizabethton, 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 Elizabethton?

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 Elizabethton 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 Elizabethton 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 Elizabethton, TN

Quick Stats

Quick Facts: CDL Training in Elizabethton, TN

128 CDL Schools Near Elizabethton

Top Picks in Elizabethton

Applied Scale Technology

Gray Line Tennessee

Hudgins Disposal Inc

Applied Scale Technology

Gray Line Tennessee

Brundage-Bone Concrete Pumping Inc./Nashville

Nashville Inner City Ministry Inc

Old Town Trolley Tours of Nashville

PWNA-Nashville

Rio Grande Fence Company

160 Driving Academy - Nashville Yard

Global Outreach Developments International

NGBU Duke Energy- Nashville

160 Driving Academy - Nashville Classroom

Premier Truck Driver TRaining

BNAR/BNART

Professional Driving Academy Nashville LLC

TransCor

Pope John Paul II High School

Bartlett Tree Experts Nashville TN

1000-Pool Equipment and Supply, Inc

Metro Nashville parks and recreation

Central Transport - 372

CDL Training in Elizabethton, Tennessee

Why Get CDL Training Near Elizabethton?

CDL Training Costs in Tennessee

Trucking Jobs Near Elizabethton

Compare CDL Schools in Elizabethton

Tuition Costs in Elizabethton

Nearby Cities

Need Help Choosing?

More in Tennessee

DOT Physicals Near Elizabethton

Concentra Urgent Care

Concentra Urgent Care

MedPro Occupational Health - South Nashville

CDL Testing & Driver Services in Elizabethton

Frequently Asked Questions About CDL Training in Elizabethton

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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