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.

How much does CDL training cost in Downey, CA?

CDL training in Downey, 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 Downey?

Most CDL training programs in Downey 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 Downey, CA?

Yes, several CDL schools in the Downey 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 Downey 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 135 verified training programs serving the Downey, California area.

FMCSA VERIFIED 2025

CDL Schools in Downey, CA

Are you looking for commercial driver training in Downey?We have identified 135 FMCSA-verified programs serving the Downey area (Pop: 111,126).

Quick Stats

135 Training Programs

ELDT Compliant

3-8 Week Programs

Pop: 111,126

Quick Facts: CDL Training in Downey, 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

135

Local CDL training answer

How should students compare CDL schools in Downey, CA?

Students comparing CDL schools in Downey, CA 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 135 training programsserving the Downey area and is intended to help students request information without exposing private school contact data publicly.

135 CDL Schools Near Downey

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Top Picks in Downey

Editor's Choice

#1 Editor's ChoiceVerified

SIMMONS TRUCKING SCHOOL INC

Bell Gardens, CA

Call Now

#2 Editor's ChoiceVerified

Toro School of Truck Driving

Bellflower, CA

Call Now

#3 Editor's ChoiceVerified

Downey, LA

10.1 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verifiedclass_a_theoryclass_a_behind_the_wheel_rangeclass_a_behind_the_wheel_public_roadclass_b_theory

Showing 20 of 125 schools

CDL Training in Downey, California

Downey, California has 135 FMCSA-verified CDL training programs serving students in 2026. California handles over 40% of all US containerized imports through the Port of Los Angeles and Port of Long Beach. Average CDL driver salary in California is about $62,400 per year, with experienced drivers reaching $95,000. The ports, agriculture & tech logistics sector creates critical demand for qualified CDL holders near Downey, and major freight corridors such as I-5/I-10/I-15 freight corridors connect graduates to local, regional, and long-haul work. Every school listed on this page is tied to FMCSA Training Provider Registry review, which matters because ELDT completion must come from a registered provider before a first-time CDL applicant can take the skills test.

Why Get CDL Training Near Downey?

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 Downey

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 Downey: 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 Downey

Side-by-side comparison of top training programs

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Showing 15 schools

School Name	City	Program Types	Key Features	Contact
1 Mile At A Time Trucking & Training LLC FMCSA Verified		Class A		View Details
10-4 trucking FMCSA Verified	Lancaster	Class A	Weekend Classes	View Details
160 Driving Academy - San Bernardino - Classroom FMCSA Verified	San Bernardino	Class AClass BHazmatTanker	Manual Trans.VA Approved	View Details
160 Driving Academy - San Bernardino - Yard FMCSA Verified	San Bernardino	Class AClass BTanker	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesVA Approved	View Details
1st Premier Trucking Academy FMCSA Verified		Class AHazmat	Manual Trans.Weekend Classes	View Details
A & B Interstate 215, LLC FMCSA Verified	San Bernardino	Class ATanker	VA Approved	View Details
A.B.C. Schooling LLC FMCSA Verified	Perris	Class AClass BHazmat	Manual Trans.	View Details
AGT Trucking School FMCSA Verified	Canoga Park	Class AClass BTanker	Manual Trans.VA Approved	View Details
All In CDL Training FMCSA Verified	Long Beach	Class A	VA Approved	View Details
Allure Entertainment FMCSA Verified	Los Angeles	Class A	Manual Trans.	View Details
America Truck Driving School Riverside FMCSA Verified	Riverside	Class AClass BHazmat	Evening ClassesVA Approved	View Details
America Truck Driving School Santa Ana FMCSA Verified	Santa Ana	Class AClass BTanker	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesEvening ClassesVA Approved	View Details
American Tech Logistics FMCSA Verified	Bloomington	Class ATanker	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesVA Approved	View Details
Ancora for Long Beach Community College FMCSA Verified	Long Beach	Class ATanker	Manual Trans.Weekend Classes	View Details
Antelope Valley Schools Transportation Agency FMCSA Verified	Lancaster	Class ATanker	Manual Trans.Weekend Classes	View Details

Tuition Costs in Downey

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.

Nearby Cities

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DOT Physicals Near Downey

Required for your CDL medical card

Industrial Medicine Associates - Anaheim

1490 Executive Blvd, Anaheim

(714) 463-6535

4.8

$85-$152

Walk-ins OK

Physicians Immediate Care - Central Long Beach

7003 Clinic Way, Long Beach

(916) 233-2939

4.7

$56-$113

Walk-ins OK

CareNow Urgent Care - Central Los Angeles

3198 Lincoln Ave, Los Angeles

(916) 636-6790

4.7

$113-$186

Walk-ins OK

View All 50 Clinics in Downey All Locations

💡 Pro Tip: Get your DOT physical before starting CDL training. The exam typically costs $55-$150 and is valid for up to 2 years.

CDL Testing & DMV in Downey

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

Find DMV Office

Frequently Asked Questions About CDL Training in Downey

How long does CDL training take in Downey?

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

Yes, several CDL schools in the Downey 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 Downey 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 Downey 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 California

📋

Guide

CDL Schools in Downey, CA

Quick Stats

Quick Facts: CDL Training in Downey, CA

How should students compare CDL schools in Downey, CA?

135 CDL Schools Near Downey

Top Picks in Downey

SIMMONS TRUCKING SCHOOL INC

Toro School of Truck Driving

College of Instrument Technology-Office

SIMMONS TRUCKING SCHOOL INC

College of Instrument Technology-Office

Brea Olinda Unified School District

Elvira's Trucking Academy

Winn Parish School Board

Side job

Southern States ELDT

Brian Tackett - Independent Instructor

1st Premier Trucking Academy

The academy

Blue Goose Community Development

Marcus Safe Start

CDL future trucking academy (On site training)

Southeast Transportation Safety, LLC

1 Mile At A Time Trucking & Training LLC

ELDT Academy, LLC - Travelling CDL Instructors

Odoms Transport LLC

Bullett Xpress LLC

ELDT Solutions - On Site CDL Training

Eclipse DOT

CDL Training in Downey, California

Why Get CDL Training Near Downey?

CDL Training Costs in California

Trucking Jobs Near Downey

Compare CDL Schools in Downey

Tuition Costs in Downey

Nearby Cities

Need Help Choosing?

More in California

DOT Physicals Near Downey

Industrial Medicine Associates - Anaheim

Physicians Immediate Care - Central Long Beach

CareNow Urgent Care - Central Los Angeles

CDL Testing & DMV in Downey

Frequently Asked Questions About CDL Training in Downey

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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