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 114 verified training programs serving the Santa Monica, California area.

FMCSA VERIFIED 2025

CDL Schools in Santa Monica, CA

Are you looking for commercial driver training in Santa Monica?We have identified 114 FMCSA-verified programs serving the Santa Monica area (Pop: 10,000).

Quick Stats

114 Training Programs
ELDT Compliant
3-8 Week Programs
Pop: 10,000

Quick Facts: CDL Training in Santa Monica, 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
114

Local CDL training answer

How should students compare CDL schools in Santa Monica, CA?

Students comparing CDL schools in Santa Monica, 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 114 training programsserving the Santa Monica area and is intended to help students request information without exposing private school contact data publicly.

114 CDL Schools Near Santa Monica

Top Picks in Santa Monica

Editor's Choice
#1 Editor's ChoiceVerified

Holy Martyrs Armenian Ferrahian School

Encino, CA

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#2 Editor's ChoiceVerified

van nuys high school

Van Nuys, CA

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#3 Editor's ChoiceVerified

Chayka Truck Driving LLC

Van Nuys, CA

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Holy Martyrs Armenian Ferrahian School

Encino, CA
10.8 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified
+1 XXX-XXX-XXXX

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van nuys high school

Van Nuys, CA
12.7 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified
+1 XXX-XXX-XXXX

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Chayka Truck Driving LLC

Van Nuys, CA
12.9 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified
+1 XXX-XXX-XXXX

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MUSE GLOBAL SCHOOL

Calabasas, CA
13.5 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified
+1 XXX-XXX-XXXX

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Side job

Santa Monica, LA
14.4 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verifiedclass_a_theoryclass_a_behind_the_wheel_rangeclass_a_behind_the_wheel_public_roadclass_b_theory
+1 XXX-XXX-XXXX

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Southern States ELDT

Santa Monica, LA
14.4 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verifiedclass_b_theoryclass_b_behind_the_wheel_rangeclass_b_behind_the_wheel_public_roadpassenger_theory
+1 XXX-XXX-XXXX

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The academy

Santa Monica, LA
14.4 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verifiedclass_a_theoryclass_a_behind_the_wheel_rangeclass_a_behind_the_wheel_public_roadclass_b_theory
+1 XXX-XXX-XXXX

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Brian Tackett - Independent Instructor

Santa Monica, LA
14.4 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verifiedclass_a_theoryclass_a_behind_the_wheel_rangeclass_a_behind_the_wheel_public_roadclass_b_theory

1st Premier Trucking Academy

Santa Monica, LA
14.4 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verifiedclass_a_theoryclass_a_behind_the_wheel_rangeclass_a_behind_the_wheel_public_roadclass_b_theory
+1 XXX-XXX-XXXX

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Blue Goose Community Development

Santa Monica, LA
14.4 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verifiedclass_a_behind_the_wheel_rangeclass_a_behind_the_wheel_public_roadclass_b_behind_the_wheel_rangeclass_b_behind_the_wheel_public_road
+1 XXX-XXX-XXXX

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Southeast Transportation Safety, LLC

Santa Monica, LA
14.4 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verifiedclass_a_theoryclass_a_behind_the_wheel_rangeclass_a_behind_the_wheel_public_roadclass_b_theory
+1 XXX-XXX-XXXX

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Bullett Xpress LLC

Santa Monica, LA
14.4 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verifiedclass_a_theoryclass_a_behind_the_wheel_rangeclass_a_behind_the_wheel_public_roadclass_b_theory
+1 XXX-XXX-XXXX

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CDL future trucking academy (On site training)

Santa Monica, LA
14.4 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verifiedclass_a_theoryclass_a_behind_the_wheel_rangeclass_a_behind_the_wheel_public_roadclass_b_theory
+1 XXX-XXX-XXXX

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1 Mile At A Time Trucking & Training LLC

Santa Monica, LA
14.4 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verifiedclass_a_theoryclass_a_behind_the_wheel_rangeclass_a_behind_the_wheel_public_roadclass_b_theory
+1 XXX-XXX-XXXX

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ELDT Academy, LLC - Travelling CDL Instructors

Santa Monica, LA
14.4 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verifiedclass_a_theoryclass_a_behind_the_wheel_rangeclass_a_behind_the_wheel_public_roadclass_b_theory
+1 XXX-XXX-XXXX

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Marcus Safe Start

Santa Monica, LA
14.4 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verifiedclass_b_theoryclass_b_behind_the_wheel_rangeclass_b_behind_the_wheel_public_roadpassenger_theory
+1 XXX-XXX-XXXX

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ELDT Solutions - On Site CDL Training

Santa Monica, LA
14.4 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verifiedclass_a_theoryclass_a_behind_the_wheel_rangeclass_a_behind_the_wheel_public_roadclass_b_theory
+1 XXX-XXX-XXXX

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Elvira's Trucking Academy

Santa Monica, LA
14.4 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verifiedclass_a_theoryclass_a_behind_the_wheel_rangeclass_a_behind_the_wheel_public_roadclass_b_theory
+1 XXX-XXX-XXXX

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Cheapest ELDT only 2500 for CDL

Santa Monica, LA
14.4 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verifiedclass_a_theoryclass_a_behind_the_wheel_rangeclass_a_behind_the_wheel_public_roadclass_b_theory
+1 XXX-XXX-XXXX

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Eclipse DOT

Santa Monica, LA
14.4 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verifiedclass_a_theoryclass_a_behind_the_wheel_rangeclass_a_behind_the_wheel_public_roadclass_b_theory
+1 XXX-XXX-XXXX

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Showing 20 of 102 schools

CDL Training in Santa Monica, California

Santa Monica, California has 114 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 Santa Monica, 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 Santa Monica?

  • 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 Santa Monica

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 Santa Monica: 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 JobsGet Paid to Train

Compare CDL Schools in Santa Monica

Side-by-side comparison of top training programs

⚙️ Transmission:
Showing 15 schools
School Name
City
Program TypesKey FeaturesContact
Class A
View Details
10-4 trucking
FMCSA Verified
Lancaster
Class A
Weekend Classes
160 Driving Academy
FMCSA Verified
Oxnard
Class AClass BHazmat
Class AHazmat
Manual Trans.Weekend Classes
View Details
AGT Trucking School
FMCSA Verified
Canoga Park
Class AClass BTanker
Manual Trans.VA Approved
View Details
AGT Trucking School
FMCSA Verified
Ventura
Class AHazmatTanker
Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesVA Approved
View Details
All In CDL Training
FMCSA Verified
Long Beach
Class A
VA Approved
Allure Entertainment
FMCSA Verified
Los Angeles
Class A
Manual Trans.
America Truck Driving School Santa Ana
FMCSA Verified
Santa Ana
Class AClass BTanker
Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesEvening ClassesVA Approved
Ancora for Long Beach Community College
FMCSA Verified
Long Beach
Class ATanker
Manual Trans.Weekend Classes
Antelope Valley Schools Transportation Agency
FMCSA Verified
Lancaster
Class ATanker
Manual Trans.Weekend Classes
AZTLAN TRUCKING SCHOOL
FMCSA Verified
Los Angeles
Class AClass BHazmat
VA Approved
Banderas Rental LLC
FMCSA Verified
Ontario
Class AClass B
Weekend Classes
Class AHazmat
Weekend ClassesVA Approved
View Details
LONG BEACH
Class AClass B
Manual Trans.
View Details

Tuition Costs in Santa Monica

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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More in California

DOT Physicals Near Santa Monica

Required for your CDL medical card

DOT Exams Culver City

5601 W Slauson Ave Ste 266 Second Floor, Culver City
(424) 228-4638
5

RUMI MEDICAL CLINIC & URGENT CARE

19730 Ventura Blvd Unit 101, Woodland Hills
(747) 247-0909
5

Manchester Urgent Care

6222 W Manchester Ave a2, Los Angeles
(310) 670-0230
4.9
View All 50 Clinics in Santa MonicaAll 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 Santa Monica

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

Find DMV Office

Required Online Compliance Training

Before driving for a fleet operating out of Santa Monica, most employers require current DOT/FMCSA certifications. Complete training online, at your own pace.

DOT Reasonable SuspicionHazmat AwarenessHazmat RecurrentDefensive DrivingHIPAA for CouriersHeat Stress & Slip/TripDry Ice HandlingHOS / ELD ComplianceLithium Battery ShippingBloodborne PathogensCargo SecurementFSMA Sanitary TransportForklift Certification
View All Certification Courses

Frequently Asked Questions About CDL Training in Santa Monica

How long does CDL training take in Santa Monica?
CDL training programs in Santa Monica, 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 Santa Monica without quitting my job?
Yes, several CDL schools in the Santa Monica 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 Santa Monica 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 Santa Monica 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

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Guide

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Salary

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Funding

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Grants

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Protection

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Training

Can You Get a CDL in 2 Weeks? Fast Track Guide

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Related Resources

CDL Practice Tests by StatePaid CDL Training ProgramsFMCSA School Verification GuideTruck Driver Salary by StateVerify a CDL School