At-a-Glance Comparison
| Feature | Roadmaster | 160 Academy |
|---|---|---|
| School Type | Private (Werner-owned) | Private (Independent) |
| Total Locations | 9 states | 35+ locations in 17 states |
| Program Length | 3-4 weeks | 4-6 weeks |
| Tuition Cost | $5,500-7,000 | $6,000-8,500 |
| Average Class Size | 8-12 students | 6-10 students |
| Job Placement Rate | 95%+ (many go to Werner) | 98%+ claimed |
| CDL Pass Rate | ~92% | ~95% |
Company Overview
Understanding the ownership and business model helps you know what to expect.
About Roadmaster
- Founded in 1996, now owned by Werner Enterprises
- Strong pipeline to Werner driving jobs
- Locations in FL, GA, TN, OH, IN, OK, CA, TX, AZ
- PTDI-certified curriculum
- Focus on over-the-road trucking preparation
About 160 Driving Academy
- Founded in 2009, independent operation
- One of the fastest-growing CDL schools
- Locations across 17+ states
- Partners with 100+ trucking companies
- Focus on speed-to-employment
🏢 Company Verdict
Roadmaster offers a clear path to Werner employment, which is great if Werner is your target. 160 Driving Academy offers more flexibility and carrier options but less direct placement guarantee.
Cost & Financing Comparison
CDL training is a significant investment. Here's how the costs compare.
Roadmaster Costs
- Tuition: $5,500-$7,000 depending on location
- Werner tuition reimbursement program available
- Work 1 year for Werner = they pay your tuition
- Third-party financing available
- Some locations offer VA benefits
160 Driving Academy Costs
- Tuition: $6,000-$8,500 depending on location
- Multiple financing partners (Climb Credit, etc.)
- Payment plans available (varies by location)
- Some employer reimbursement partnerships
- GI Bill accepted at most locations
💰 Cost Verdict
Roadmaster is generally cheaper upfront, and their Werner reimbursement program can make it essentially free. However, you're committing to Werner for a year. 160 offers more flexibility but at a higher price point.
Training Quality Comparison
What matters most: how well they prepare you to pass the CDL test and become a safe driver.
Roadmaster Training
- 160+ hours of training (3-4 weeks)
- PTDI-certified instructors
- Modern automatic transmission trucks
- Strong focus on backing maneuvers
- Practice on dedicated training range
160 Driving Academy Training
- 160-200 hours of training (4-6 weeks)
- Mix of classroom and behind-the-wheel
- Both manual and automatic available
- Job placement assistance included
- Refresher courses available if needed
🎓 Training Verdict
160 Driving Academy offers slightly more comprehensive training with longer programs and manual transmission options. Roadmaster focuses on efficiency and Werner-specific preparation.
Locations & Accessibility
Finding a convenient training location matters for your schedule and budget.
Roadmaster Locations
- Phoenix, AZ
- Fontana, CA (Los Angeles area)
- Jacksonville, FL
- Tampa, FL
- Columbus, GA
- Indianapolis, IN
- Columbus, OH
- Oklahoma City, OK
- Memphis, TN
- Dallas/Fort Worth, TX
160 Driving Academy Locations (Partial List)
- Multiple locations in Texas
- Chicago, IL area
- Florida locations
- Ohio locations
- Georgia locations
- North Carolina
- Tennessee
- Kentucky
- Alabama
- ...and 8+ more states
📍 Locations Verdict (160 Academy Wins)
160 Driving Academy wins on accessibility with 35+ locations in 17 states. If you're not near a Roadmaster location, 160 likely has something closer to you.
What Real Students Say
Aggregated from r/Truckers, Indeed, and Google Reviews
Common Roadmaster Feedback
"Got my CDL in 3 weeks and started at Werner making $1,100/week immediately. School was professional and instructors knew their stuff."
"Felt like a Werner recruiting pipeline. If you don't want Werner, you're kind of on your own for job placement."
Common 160 Academy Feedback
"They helped me get interviews with 5 different companies. Ended up at Schneider which was my first choice."
"Bit more expensive than I expected. The 6 weeks felt long. Some instructors better than others depending on location."
The Final Verdict
Choose Roadmaster If...
- You want to work for Werner Enterprises
- You prefer a shorter, more intensive program
- You want potential free training through reimbursement
- There's a location convenient to you
- You prefer training on modern automatic trucks
Choose 160 Driving Academy If...
- You want flexibility in choosing your employer
- You prefer a longer, more thorough program
- You want to train on manual transmission
- The nearest Roadmaster is too far
- You value having multiple carrier options
Overall Verdict: It Depends!
Both are legitimate, quality CDL schools. Choose Roadmaster if Werner is your target and free training appeals to you. Choose 160 Driving Academy if flexibility and carrier choice matter more than saving on tuition.
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