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 Kailua-Kona, Hawaii area.

FMCSA VERIFIED 2025

CDL Schools in Kailua-Kona, HI

Are you looking for commercial driver training in Kailua-Kona?We have identified 12 FMCSA-verified programs serving the Kailua-Kona area (Pop: 14,206).

Quick Stats

12 Training Programs
ELDT Compliant
3-8 Week Programs
Pop: 14,206

Quick Facts: CDL Training in Kailua-Kona, HI

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 Kailua-Kona, HI?

Students comparing CDL schools in Kailua-Kona, HI 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 Kailua-Kona area and is intended to help students request information without exposing private school contact data publicly.

12 CDL Schools Near Kailua-Kona

Top Picks in Kailua-Kona

Editor's Choice
#1 Editor's ChoiceVerified

Safe Drivers Hawaii

Hilo, HI

Call Now
#2 Editor's ChoiceVerified

CCM CDL TRAINING LLC

Paia, HI

Call Now

Safe Drivers Hawaii

Hilo, HI
59.8 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified

808 CDL Services LLC

Keaau, HI
61.7 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified

CCM CDL TRAINING LLC

Paia, HI
91.6 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified

Hawaii CDL & Safety Programs

Kailua-Kona, HI
1.9 miles away

Dependable Hawaiian Express - Big Island, Inc.

Kailua-Kona, HI
4.3 miles away

Hawaii Community College

Kailua-Kona, HI
7 miles away

Hawaii Community College

Hilo, HI
60.5 miles away

H2K Driver Training Services LLC

Hilo, HI
61.5 miles away

Kamahele Tours LLC

Hilo, HI
61.5 miles away

Hawaii CDL Academy

Hilo, HI
61.6 miles away

Ricky T's CDL Services, INC

Kahului, HI
91.7 miles away

UH Maui Collage

Kahului, HI
91.8 miles away

CDL Training in Kailua-Kona, Hawaii

Kailua-Kona, Hawaii 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 Kailua-Kona?

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

CDL Training Costs in Hawaii

CDL training in Hawaii 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 Kailua-Kona

Get hired after you complete your CDL training

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

Top employers hiring near Kailua-Kona: 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 Kailua-Kona

Side-by-side comparison of top training programs

⚙️ Transmission:
Showing 12 schools
School Name
City
Program TypesKey FeaturesContact
808 CDL Services LLC
FMCSA Verified
Class ATanker
Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesEvening ClassesVA Approved
CCM CDL TRAINING LLC
FMCSA Verified
Class A
Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesVA Approved
Class AClass B
Manual Trans.Evening ClassesVA Approved
Class AHazmatTanker
Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesEvening ClassesVA Approved
Class ATanker
Weekend ClassesEvening ClassesVA Approved
Hawaii CDL Academy
FMCSA Verified
Class ATanker
Manual Trans.
Class AClass B
Weekend ClassesEvening ClassesVA Approved
Class AClass B
Weekend ClassesEvening ClassesVA Approved
Kamahele Tours LLC
FMCSA Verified
Class AClass BHazmatTanker
Manual Trans.Evening ClassesVA Approved
Class A
Manual Trans.Weekend Classes
Safe Drivers Hawaii
FMCSA Verified
Class AClass B
Weekend Classes
UH Maui Collage
FMCSA Verified
Class AClass B
Evening ClassesVA Approved

Tuition Costs in Kailua-Kona

Avg. Private School
$8,500
Avg. Public School
$6,000
Price Range
$5,000 - $12,000

Highest costs due to isolation. Limited interstate opportunities.

Need Help Choosing?

Take our free quiz to get matched with schools that fit your needs, budget, and schedule.

Get Matched FREE

DOT Physicals Near Kailua-Kona

Required for your CDL medical card

Kona Urgent Care

75-1028 Henry St, Kailua-Kona
4.8
$70-$135
Walk-ins OK

💡 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 Kailua-Kona

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 Kailua-Kona

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