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 Taft, CA?

CDL training in Taft, CA 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 Taft?

Most CDL training programs in Taft 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 Taft, CA?

Yes, several CDL schools in the Taft 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 Taft 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 62 verified training programs serving the Taft, California area.

FMCSA VERIFIED 2025

CDL Schools in Taft, CA

Are you looking for commercial driver training in Taft?We have identified 62 FMCSA-verified programs serving the Taft area (Pop: 20,000).

Quick Stats

62 Training Programs

ELDT Compliant

3-8 Week Programs

Pop: 20,000

Quick Facts: CDL Training in Taft, CA

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

62 CDL Schools Near Taft

CDL Training Market in Taft, CA (2026 Report)

Market Snapshot

Active Schools4
ELDT Verified4
Average Tuition$4,000
Starting From$4,000
Weekend TrainingAvailable

Aspiring truck drivers in Taft have access to 4 FMCSA-verified training programs for the 2026 academic year.

The market is competitive, with tuition ranging from an affordable $4,000 up to premium programs around $8,000.

Many schools in Taft 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 Taft

Editor's Choice

#1 Editor's ChoiceVerified

Taft Union High School District

Taft, CA

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#2 Editor's ChoiceVerified

Taft City School District

Taft, CA

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#3 Editor's ChoiceVerified

Bakersfield, CA

28.8 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Showing 20 of 47 schools

CDL Training in Taft, California

<div class="space-y-4"> Taft, CA offers 62 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 CA 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 Taft 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 Taft?

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

CDL Training Costs in California

CDL training in California 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 California

Trucking Jobs Near Taft

Get hired after you complete your CDL training

$45,000 - $75,000

Average annual salary for CDL drivers in California

2,500+

Open trucking positions in California

Top employers hiring near Taft: 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 Taft

Side-by-side comparison of top training programs

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⚙️ Transmission:

Showing 15 schools

School Name	City	Program Types	Key Features	Contact
DWR- SJFD FMCSA Verified	Bakersfield	Class AClass BHazmat	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesEvening Classes	View Details
160 Driving Academy - Bakersfield Classroom FMCSA Verified	Bakersfield	Class A	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesEvening Classes	View Details
160 Driving Academy - Bakersfield Yard FMCSA Verified	Wasco	Class AClass B	Weekend ClassesEvening ClassesVA Approved	View Details
7041 - Bakersfield, CA FMCSA Verified	Bakersfield	Class AClass BTanker	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesEvening ClassesVA Approved	View Details
AB TRUCK TRAINING FMCSA Verified	Bakersfield	Class AHazmat	Manual Trans.	View Details
Advance Beverage Company FMCSA Verified	Bakersfield	Class A	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesEvening ClassesVA Approved	View Details
Advanced Career Institute Bakersfield Ca FMCSA Verified	Bakersfield	Class A	Weekend ClassesEvening ClassesVA Approved	View Details
ALDACO TRUCK SCHOOL FMCSA Verified	Wasco	Class AHazmat	Weekend ClassesEvening ClassesVA Approved	View Details
ANTELOPE TRUCK DRIVING SCHOOL 2 FMCSA Verified	Santa Margarita	Class AHazmat	Manual Trans.Weekend Classes	View Details
arvin transit FMCSA Verified	Arvin	Class AClass BHazmat	Manual Trans.	View Details
Associated Builders and Contractors Training Academy FMCSA Verified	Bakersfield	Class AClass B	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesEvening ClassesVA Approved	View Details
Bakersfield City School District FMCSA Verified	Bakersfield	Class ATanker	Manual Trans.	View Details
Bakersfield Truck Driving School FMCSA Verified	Bakersfield	Class AClass B	Weekend ClassesEvening Classes	View Details
C&J Well Services, LLC FMCSA Verified	Bakersfield	Class AClass BHazmatTanker	Manual Trans.	View Details
Casing Specialties FMCSA Verified	Bakersfield	Class AClass BHazmatTanker	Manual Trans.VA Approved	View Details

Tuition Costs in Taft

Avg. Private School

$7,500

Avg. Public School

$2,800

Price Range

$2,000 - $9,500

Community Colleges in CA are significantly cheaper due to state subsidies.

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CDL Testing & DMV in Taft

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

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Frequently Asked Questions About CDL Training in Taft

How long does CDL training take in Taft?

CDL training programs in Taft, CA 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 California?

CDL training costs in California 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 Taft without quitting my job?

Yes, several CDL schools in the Taft 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 Taft 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 California?

Yes, several funding options exist for CDL training in California: 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.

Do I need a TWIC card to drive trucks in California?

A TWIC (Transportation Worker Identification Credential) card isn't required for all CDL jobs in California, but it's essential for port trucking. If you want to haul containers from the Port of LA, Port of Long Beach, or Port of Oakland—where drivers earn $75,000-$95,000/year—you'll need TWIC clearance. The application takes 8-12 weeks and costs $125.50, so start the process during CDL training.

What makes California CDL training different?

California CDL training must address unique state requirements: CARB (California Air Resources Board) truck emission regulations, agricultural transport rules for Central Valley hauling, mountain grade driving on I-5 Grapevine and Donner Pass, and urban congestion management for LA/SF metro areas. California also requires the Supplemental Driving Test for certain endorsements. Look for schools that include these California-specific components.

This page lists FMCSA-verified CDL schools in California, including training programs in Taft and surrounding cities. All listed programs meet Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) requirements.

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Essential Reading for CDL Students

Expert guides to help you start your trucking career in California

📋

Guide

CDL Schools in Taft, CA

Quick Stats

Quick Facts: CDL Training in Taft, CA

62 CDL Schools Near Taft

CDL Training Market in Taft, CA (2026 Report)

Market Snapshot

Top Picks in Taft

Taft Union High School District

Taft City School District

General Production Service of CA Inc

Taft Union High School District

Taft City School District

General Production Service of CA Inc

Maricopa Unified School District

Panama-Buena Vista Union School District

C&J Well Services, LLC

Rosedale Union School District

F & J Transportation

The Truck Master School - Bakersfield

Advance Beverage Company

Advanced Career Institute Bakersfield Ca

Casing Specialties

Fruitvale School District

Ten-West Towing

Greenfield Union School District

Economy Truck School

On the move trucking school

UNION TRUCK SCHOOL

DWR- SJFD

AB TRUCK TRAINING

CDL Training in Taft, California

Why Get CDL Training Near Taft?

CDL Training Costs in California

Trucking Jobs Near Taft

Compare CDL Schools in Taft

Tuition Costs in Taft

Nearby Cities

Need Help Choosing?

More in California

CDL Testing & DMV in Taft

Frequently Asked Questions About CDL Training in Taft

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