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 Mena, AR?

CDL training in Mena, AR 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 Mena?

Most CDL training programs in Mena 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 Mena, AR?

Yes, several CDL schools in the Mena 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 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'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 93 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 93 FMCSA-verified programs serving the Mena area (Pop: 20,000).

Quick Stats

93 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

93 CDL Schools Near Mena

CDL Training Market in Mena, AR (2026 Report)

Market Snapshot

Active Schools4
ELDT Verified4
Average Tuition$3,500
Starting From$3,500
Weekend TrainingAvailable

Aspiring truck drivers in Mena have access to 4 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.

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Top Picks in Mena

Editor's Choice

#1 Editor's ChoiceVerified

ENGLAND SCHOOL DISTRICT

England, AR

Call Now

#2 Editor's ChoiceVerified

Central Transport - 722

Little Rock, AR

Call Now

#3 Editor's ChoiceVerified

Little Rock, AR

14.5 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Showing 20 of 78 schools

CDL Training in Mena, Arkansas

<div class="space-y-4"> Mena, AR offers 93 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 AR 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 Mena 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 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.

View all CDL schools in Arkansas

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.

Browse CDL Jobs Get Paid to Train

Compare CDL Schools in Mena

Side-by-side comparison of top training programs

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⚙️ Transmission:

Showing 15 schools

School Name	City	Program Types	Key Features	Contact
160 Driving Academy - Little Rock Classroom FMCSA Verified	North Little Rock	Class A	VA Approved	View Details
160 Driving Academy - Little Rock Yard FMCSA Verified	North Little Rock	Class A	Manual Trans.Weekend Classes	View Details
20923 Little Rock FMCSA Verified	Little Rock	Class AClass BHazmat	Manual Trans.Weekend Classes	View Details
4L"s CDL School FMCSA Verified	Vilonia	Class AHazmat	Manual Trans.Weekend Classes	View Details
ACI FMCSA Verified	Little Rock	Class AHazmatTanker	Manual Trans.Evening ClassesVA Approved	View Details
ADA Forestry Greenbrier FMCSA Verified	Greenbrier	Class AClass B	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesEvening ClassesVA Approved	View Details
AECI FMCSA Verified	Little Rock	Class ATanker	Manual Trans.Evening Classes	View Details
ARCWOOD TRANSPORT LLC FMCSA Verified	Benton	Class A	Weekend ClassesEvening ClassesVA Approved	View Details
ArDOT (Central complex and District 6) FMCSA Verified	Little Rock	Class AHazmat		View Details
Arkansas Game and Fish Commission FMCSA Verified	Lonoke	Class A	Manual Trans.Evening Classes	View Details
Arkansas State Police FMCSA Verified	Little Rock	Class ATanker	Evening Classes	View Details
Barnhart Crane Little Rock - BTW FMCSA Verified	Little Rock	Class ATanker	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesEvening Classes	View Details
Beebe Public School District FMCSA Verified	Beebe	Class AClass B	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesVA Approved	View Details
Beebe Public Schools FMCSA Verified	Beebe	Class AHazmat	Manual Trans.VA Approved	View Details
Benton School District FMCSA Verified	Benton	Class AClass BTanker	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesEvening ClassesVA Approved	View Details

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).

Nearby Cities

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DOT Physicals Near Mena

Required for your CDL medical card

MedPro Occupational Health - West Little Rock

4260 Commerce Blvd, Little Rock

(479) 205-4022

$112-$173

Walk-ins OK

CHI St. Vincent Urgent Care

2 St Vincent Cir, Little Rock

(501) 552-3000

4.6

$70-$135

Baptist Health Urgent Care

9601 Baptist Health Dr, Little Rock

(501) 202-2000

4.5

$70-$135

Walk-ins OK

View All 19 Clinics in Mena 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 Mena

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 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.

This page lists FMCSA-verified CDL schools in Arkansas, including training programs in Mena 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 Arkansas

📋

Guide

CDL Schools in Mena, AR

Quick Stats

Quick Facts: CDL Training in Mena, AR

93 CDL Schools Near Mena

CDL Training Market in Mena, AR (2026 Report)

Market Snapshot

Top Picks in Mena

ENGLAND SCHOOL DISTRICT

Central Transport - 722

Superior Success Comprehensive educational service

ENGLAND SCHOOL DISTRICT

Central Transport - 722

ACI

Superior Success Comprehensive educational service

Pulaski County Special School

LRA

Blue Bell Creameries - Little Rock

Transco Lines, Inc

Maverick Driving Academy

160 Driving Academy - Little Rock Yard

McConnell & Son Inc

O'Connor Distributing

WorldLink Truck Driving Academy

PWNA-North Little Rock

North Little Rock School District

North Little Rock, AR- NPGA

Ivory Gaston CDL Training PCSSD

AECI

MasTec Network Solutions Little Rock, Arkansas

20923 Little Rock

CDL Training in Mena, Arkansas

Why Get CDL Training Near Mena?

CDL Training Costs in Arkansas

Trucking Jobs Near Mena

Compare CDL Schools in Mena

Tuition Costs in Mena

Nearby Cities

Need Help Choosing?

More in Arkansas

DOT Physicals Near Mena

MedPro Occupational Health - West Little Rock

CHI St. Vincent Urgent Care

Baptist Health Urgent Care

CDL Testing & Driver Services in Mena

Frequently Asked Questions About CDL Training in Mena

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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