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 Mena, Arkansas area.

FMCSA VERIFIED 2025

CDL Schools in Mena, AR

Are you looking for commercial driver training in Mena?We have identified 12 FMCSA-verified programs serving the Mena area (Pop: 20,000).

Quick Stats

12 Training Programs
ELDT Compliant
3-8 Week Programs
Pop: 20,000

Quick Facts: CDL Training in Mena, AR

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

Local CDL training answer

How should students compare CDL schools in Mena, AR?

Students comparing CDL schools in Mena, AR should first confirm that the provider is listed in the FMCSA Training Provider Registry for the CDL class or endorsement they need. Then compare tuition, behind-the-wheel hours, public enrollment status, manual or automatic transmission training, weekend or evening schedules, and whether the program supports WIOA, veteran benefits, job placement, or employer-sponsored training. This page lists 12 training programsserving the Mena area and is intended to help students request information without exposing private school contact data publicly.

12 CDL Schools Near Mena

CDL Training Market in Mena, AR (2026 Report)

Market Snapshot

  • Active Schools3
  • ELDT Verified3
  • Average Tuition$3,500
  • Starting From$3,500
  • Weekend TrainingAvailable

Aspiring truck drivers in Mena have access to 3 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 Mena 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.

Top Picks in Mena

Editor's Choice
#1 Editor's ChoiceVerified

Acorn School

Mena, AR

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#2 Editor's ChoiceVerified

Mena Public Schools

Mena, AR

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#3 Editor's ChoiceVerified

Arkansas Trucking Academy

Mena, AR

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Acorn School

Mena, AR
In Mena
FMCSA ELDT Verified
+1 XXX-XXX-XXXX

Protected from bots

Mena Public Schools

Mena, AR
In Mena
FMCSA ELDT Verified
+1 XXX-XXX-XXXX

Protected from bots

Arkansas Trucking Academy

Mena, AR
In Mena
FMCSA ELDT Verified
+1 XXX-XXX-XXXX

Protected from bots

Manfield Public Schools

Mansfield, AR
33.2 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified
+1 XXX-XXX-XXXX

Protected from bots

De Queen Public Schools

De Queen, AR
38.2 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified
+1 XXX-XXX-XXXX

Protected from bots

Hackett Public Schools

Hackett, AR
42.9 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified
+1 XXX-XXX-XXXX

Protected from bots

Hackett Public School

Hackett, AR
42.9 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified
+1 XXX-XXX-XXXX

Protected from bots

Booneville Public School

Booneville, AR
43 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified
+1 XXX-XXX-XXXX

Protected from bots

Arkansas Trucking Academy

Nashville, AR
48.2 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified
+1 XXX-XXX-XXXX

Protected from bots

Nashville Public Schools

Nashville, AR
48.5 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified
+1 XXX-XXX-XXXX

Protected from bots

Kiamichi Technology Center - Talihina

Talihina, OK
49.7 miles away
+1 XXX-XXX-XXXX

Protected from bots

CDL Training in Mena, Arkansas

Mena, Arkansas offers 12 FMCSA-verified CDL training programs for aspiring commercial drivers in 2026. Whether you need a Class A CDL for tractor-trailers or a Class B CDL for straight trucks, compare the programs below by tuition, training length, public enrollment status, and available endorsements. Full-time CDL training often takes 4-8 weeks, while part-time, evening, and weekend options may take longer. Before enrolling, confirm the provider is listed in the FMCSA Training Provider Registry and ask whether the school offers job placement, manual transmission training, WIOA or veteran funding support, and behind-the-wheel practice that matches your target CDL class.

Why Get CDL Training Near Mena?

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

CDL Training Costs in Arkansas

CDL training in Arkansas 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.

Trucking Jobs Near Mena

Get hired after you complete your CDL training

$45,000 - $75,000
Average annual salary for CDL drivers in Arkansas
2,500+
Open trucking positions in Arkansas

Top employers hiring near Mena: 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.

Compare CDL Schools in Mena

Side-by-side comparison of top training programs

⚙️ Transmission:
Showing 12 schools
School Name
City
Program TypesKey FeaturesContact
Acorn School
FMCSA Verified
Class AClass BTanker
Manual Trans.Evening ClassesVA Approved
Class A
Manual Trans.Evening Classes
Class AClass BTanker
Evening ClassesVA Approved
Class AClass B
Manual Trans.Evening ClassesVA Approved
Class A
Manual Trans.
Dierks Public Schools
FMCSA Verified
Class A
Weekend ClassesEvening Classes
Hackett Public School
FMCSA Verified
Class AHazmat
Manual Trans.Weekend Classes
Class AClass BTanker
VA Approved
Kiamichi Technology Center - Talihina
FMCSA Verified
Class AClass BTanker
Manual Trans.Weekend Classes
Class A
Manual Trans.Weekend Classes
Mena Public Schools
FMCSA Verified
Class A
Manual Trans.Evening Classes
Class AClass B
Manual Trans.VA Approved

Tuition Costs in Mena

Avg. Private School
$4,400
Avg. Public School
$2,800
Price Range
$2,400 - $5,600

Home to many trucking companies (JB Hunt, ABF).

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CDL Testing & Driver Services in Mena

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

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Frequently Asked Questions About CDL Training in Mena

How long does CDL training take in Mena?
CDL training programs in Mena, AR 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 Arkansas?
CDL training costs in Arkansas 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 Mena without quitting my job?
Yes, several CDL schools in the Mena 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 Mena 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 Arkansas?
Yes, several funding options exist for CDL training in Arkansas: 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 Mena?
The CDL driver job outlook near Mena, AR is strong. The American Trucking Associations reports a shortage of 80,000+ drivers nationally, with Arkansas 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 Mena?
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 Mena CDL schools offer both options. If unsure, get the Class A, it qualifies you for Class B jobs too.