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 7 verified training programs serving the Waterloo, Iowa area.

FMCSA VERIFIED 2025

CDL Schools in Waterloo, IA

Are you looking for commercial driver training in Waterloo?We have identified 7 FMCSA-verified programs serving the Waterloo area (Pop: 67,314).

Quick Stats

7 Training Programs
ELDT Compliant
3-8 Week Programs
Pop: 67,314

Quick Facts: CDL Training in Waterloo, IA

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
7

Local CDL training answer

How should students compare CDL schools in Waterloo, IA?

Students comparing CDL schools in Waterloo, IA 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 7 training programsserving the Waterloo area and is intended to help students request information without exposing private school contact data publicly.

7 CDL Schools Near Waterloo

Independence Community School

Independence, IA
21.6 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified
+1 XXX-XXX-XXXX

Protected from bots

Northeast Iowa Community College

New Hampton, IA
37.1 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified
+1 XXX-XXX-XXXX

Protected from bots

Meskwaki Settlement School

Tama, IA
37.8 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified
+1 XXX-XXX-XXXX

Protected from bots

West Union Iowa Dept. of Transportation

West Union, IA
42.3 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified
+1 XXX-XXX-XXXX

Protected from bots

Hawkeye Community College

Waterloo, IA
In Waterloo
+1 XXX-XXX-XXXX

Protected from bots

CDL4All, LLC

Waterloo, IA
In Waterloo
+1 XXX-XXX-XXXX

Protected from bots

CDL Training in Waterloo, Iowa

Waterloo, Iowa offers 7 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 Waterloo?

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

CDL Training Costs in Iowa

CDL training in Iowa 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 Iowa

Trucking Jobs Near Waterloo

Get hired after you complete your CDL training

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

Top employers hiring near Waterloo: 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 Waterloo

Side-by-side comparison of top training programs

⚙️ Transmission:
Showing 7 schools
School Name
City
Program TypesKey FeaturesContact
CDL4All, LLC
FMCSA Verified
Waterloo
Class AClass B
Manual Trans.VA Approved
Manchester
Class AClass BHazmat
Manual Trans.
View Details
Hawkeye Community College
FMCSA Verified
Waterloo
Class AClass B
Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesEvening Classes
Independence
Class AHazmatTanker
Evening ClassesVA Approved
View Details
Tama
Class A
Weekend ClassesVA Approved
View Details
New Hampton
Class AClass B
Manual Trans.Weekend Classes
View Details
West Union
Class AHazmat
Manual Trans.Evening Classes
View Details

Tuition Costs in Waterloo

Avg. Private School
$4,500
Avg. Public School
$3,000
Price Range
$2,600 - $5,800

Strong community college system.

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More in Iowa

DOT Physicals Near Waterloo

Required for your CDL medical card

Summit Chiropractic and Physical Therapy

40 Brookeridge Dr, Waterloo
(319) 232-2100
5

Summit Chiropractic and Physical Therapy

1104 220th St, Jesup
(319) 827-2223
4.9

UnityPoint Health at Work - Waterloo Region - Occupational Medicine

7024 Nordic Dr, Cedar Falls
(319) 266-3127
3.9
View All 7 Clinics in WaterlooAll 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 & DOT MVD in Waterloo

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

Find DOT MVD Office

Required Online Compliance Training

Before driving for a fleet operating out of Waterloo, 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 Waterloo

How long does CDL training take in Waterloo?
CDL training programs in Waterloo, IA 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 Iowa?
CDL training costs in Iowa 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 Waterloo without quitting my job?
Yes, several CDL schools in the Waterloo 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 Waterloo 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 Iowa?
Yes, several funding options exist for CDL training in Iowa: 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 Waterloo?
The CDL driver job outlook near Waterloo, IA is strong. The American Trucking Associations reports a shortage of 80,000+ drivers nationally, with Iowa 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 Waterloo?
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 Waterloo 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 Iowa, including training programs in Waterloo 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 Iowa

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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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Related Resources

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