How much does CDL training cost in Paola, KS?

CDL training in Paola, KS 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 Paola?

Most CDL training programs in Paola 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 Paola, KS?

Yes, several CDL schools in the Paola 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 Paola 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 28 verified training programs serving the Paola, Kansas area.

FMCSA VERIFIED 2025

CDL Schools in Paola, KS

Name: CDL Schools in Paola, KS
Creator: CDL Schools USA
License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Are you looking for commercial driver training in Paola?We have identified 28 FMCSA-verified programs serving the Paola area (Pop: 20,000).

Quick Stats

28 Training Programs

ELDT Compliant

3-8 Week Programs

Pop: 20,000

Quick Facts: CDL Training in Paola, KS

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

Local CDL training answer

How should students compare CDL schools in Paola, KS?

Students comparing CDL schools in Paola, KS 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 28 training programsserving the Paola area and is intended to help students request information without exposing private school contact data publicly.

28 CDL Schools Near Paola

CDL Training Market in Paola, KS (2026 Report)

Market Snapshot

Active Schools1
ELDT Verified1
Average Tuition$3,500
Starting From$3,500
Weekend TrainingAvailable

Aspiring truck drivers in Paola have access to 1 FMCSA-verified training programs for the 2026 academic year.

The market is competitive, with tuition ranging from an affordable $3,500 up to premium programs around $7,200.

Many schools in Paola 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.

Filter Results:

Sort by:

Top Picks in Paola

Editor's Choice

#1 Editor's ChoiceVerified

Kansas Central School Bus - Paola

Paola, KS

Call Now

#2 Editor's ChoiceVerified

USD 416 Louisburg Public Schools

Louisburg, KS

Gardner, KS

14.7 miles away

+1 XXX-XXX-XXXX

Protected from bots

Kingdom Trucking Academy LLC.

Overland Park, KS

25.8 miles away

+1 XXX-XXX-XXXX

Protected from bots

DLTS

Leawood, KS

26.8 miles away

+1 XXX-XXX-XXXX

Protected from bots

Zeta Driving School

Lenexa, KS

27.7 miles away

+1 XXX-XXX-XXXX

Protected from bots

Zeta Commercial Driving School

Kansas City, MO

31.8 miles away

+1 XXX-XXX-XXXX

Protected from bots

20Twenty Training Center

Kansas City, MO

32.3 miles away

160 Driving Academy - Kansas City MO - Classroom

Kansas City, MO

33.7 miles away

Empire Trucking Academy

Raytown, MO

36.1 miles away

+1 XXX-XXX-XXXX

Protected from bots

ARES CDL INSTITUTE

Kansas City, KS

36.9 miles away

+1 XXX-XXX-XXXX

Protected from bots

Wilson's industries LLC

Raytown, MO

37.2 miles away

+1 XXX-XXX-XXXX

Protected from bots

Apex CDL Institute

Kansas City, KS

37.7 miles away

+1 XXX-XXX-XXXX

Protected from bots

Showing 20 of 27 schools

CDL Training in Paola, Kansas

Paola, Kansas offers 28 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 Paola?

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

CDL Training Costs in Kansas

CDL training in Kansas 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 Kansas

Trucking Jobs Near Paola

Get hired after you complete your CDL training

$45,000 - $75,000

Average annual salary for CDL drivers in Kansas

2,500+

Open trucking positions in Kansas

Top employers hiring near Paola: 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 Paola

Side-by-side comparison of top training programs

Filter:

⚙️ Transmission:

Showing 15 schools

School Name	City	Program Types	Key Features	Contact
160 Driving Academy FMCSA Verified	Independence	Class AClass BHazmat
160 Driving Academy - Kansas City MO - Classroom FMCSA Verified	Kansas City	Class AClass B	Manual Trans.Weekend Classes
20Twenty Training Center FMCSA Verified	Kansas City	Class AClass B	Manual Trans.
Apex CDL Institute FMCSA Verified	Kansas City	Class ATanker	Manual Trans.Evening Classes
ARES CDL INSTITUTE FMCSA Verified	Kansas City	Class AClass BHazmat	Manual Trans.Evening ClassesVA Approved
CDL Pros FMCSA Verified	Independence	Class AClass B	VA Approved
DLTS FMCSA Verified	Leawood	Class AClass BTanker	Manual Trans.
Dwayne Peaslee Technical Training Center FMCSA Verified	Lawrence	Class AClass BHazmat	Weekend ClassesEvening ClassesVA Approved	View Details
East Lynne School FMCSA Verified	East Lynne	Class AClass BTanker	Manual Trans.Weekend Classes	View Details
Empire Trucking Academy FMCSA Verified	Raytown	Class AHazmat	Manual Trans.Weekend Classes
Empowering Empires LLC FMCSA Verified	Leavenworth	Class AClass BHazmatTanker	VA Approved
Eudora Schools USD #491 FMCSA Verified	Eudora	Class AClass B	Manual Trans.Weekend Classes	View Details
Fort Osage School District FMCSA Verified	Independence	Class AClass BHazmat	Evening Classes
Grain Valley R-5 Schools FMCSA Verified	Grain Valley	Class A	Manual Trans.Evening ClassesVA Approved	View Details
Huddleston Machinery Moving, Inc. FMCSA Verified	Kansas City	Class A	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesEvening ClassesVA Approved

Tuition Costs in Paola

Avg. Private School

$4,400

Avg. Public School

$2,800

Price Range

$2,500 - $5,800

Very affordable Midwest training.

Nearby Cities

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 Paola

Required for your CDL medical card

KC Chiropractic Health Center

1011 E 151st St, Olathe

(913) 325-0720

Elite Chiropractic

301 Ames St, Baldwin City

(785) 594-1191

CareNow Urgent Care - Olathe - North

11963 S Black Bob Rd, Olathe

(913) 738-1480

4.5

View All 16 Clinics in Paola 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 & Division of Vehicles in Paola

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

Find Division of Vehicles Office

Required Online Compliance Training

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

DOT Reasonable Suspicion Hazmat Awareness Hazmat Recurrent Defensive Driving HIPAA for Couriers Heat Stress & Slip/Trip Dry Ice Handling HOS / ELD Compliance Lithium Battery Shipping Bloodborne Pathogens Cargo Securement FSMA Sanitary Transport Forklift Certification

View All Certification Courses

Frequently Asked Questions About CDL Training in Paola

How long does CDL training take in Paola?

CDL training programs in Paola, KS 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 Kansas?

CDL training costs in Kansas 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 Paola without quitting my job?

Yes, several CDL schools in the Paola 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 Paola 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 Kansas?

Yes, several funding options exist for CDL training in Kansas: 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 Paola?

The CDL driver job outlook near Paola, KS is strong. The American Trucking Associations reports a shortage of 80,000+ drivers nationally, with Kansas 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 Paola?

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 Paola CDL schools offer both options. If unsure, get the Class A, it qualifies you for Class B jobs too.

Complete CDL Training Guide for Paola Area Residents

While CDL training options directly in Paola are limited, there are excellent opportunities throughout Kansas and nearby areas. Here's everything you need to know to start your trucking career.

CDL Jobs in Kansas

Average Salary

$45,000 - $65,000

Key Industries

manufacturing, logistics, and distribution

In-Demand Specializations

Over-the-road (OTR)
Regional routes
Local delivery

Major Routes

Interstate highways

Top Employers

National carriers, regional trucking companies, Amazon, FedEx

Funding Options

WIOA grants through local workforce development

Nearby Cities with More Options

Consider these nearby cities with more FMCSA-verified CDL schools:

All Kansas CDL Schools

Browse all cities

View All Kansas Schools

Boost Your Earnings

After getting your CDL, consider these additional certifications to increase your earning potential:

☢️

Hazmat Endorsement Training

Get your hazardous materials endorsement

+$5,000-$10,000/yr

🛡️

Commercial Defensive Driving

Reduce points and insurance premiums

Lower insurance

📦

Cargo Securement Certification

Essential training for flatbed hauling

+$3,000-$8,000/yr

🏥

HIPAA for Medical Couriers

Certification for medical transport drivers

+$4,000-$7,000/yr

Find Your Perfect School

Kansas CDL Requirements: What You Need to Know

Be at least 18 years old (21 for interstate)
Hold a valid driver's license
Pass a DOT physical examination
Complete ELDT from an FMCSA-registered provider
Pass CDL knowledge and skills tests

3-8

Weeks to complete

View Full Requirements

Can't Afford CDL School?

Many trucking companies offer FREE CDL training with employment commitment.

View Paid Training Programs

This page lists FMCSA-verified CDL schools in Kansas, including training programs in Paola 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 Kansas

📋

Guide

CDL Schools in Paola, KS

Quick Stats

Quick Facts: CDL Training in Paola, KS

How should students compare CDL schools in Paola, KS?

28 CDL Schools Near Paola

CDL Training Market in Paola, KS (2026 Report)

Market Snapshot

Top Picks in Paola

Kansas Central School Bus - Paola

USD 416 Louisburg Public Schools

Eudora Schools USD #491

Kansas Central School Bus - Paola

USD 416 Louisburg Public Schools

Eudora Schools USD #491

Pleasanton Schools

Dwayne Peaslee Technical Training Center

East Lynne School

Grain Valley R-5 Schools

McLouth School Dist#342

MO-KAN Teamsters Apprenticeship & Training Fund

JCCC

Kingdom Trucking Academy LLC.

DLTS

Zeta Driving School

Zeta Commercial Driving School

20Twenty Training Center

160 Driving Academy - Kansas City MO - Classroom

Empire Trucking Academy

ARES CDL INSTITUTE

Wilson's industries LLC

Apex CDL Institute

CDL Training in Paola, Kansas

Why Get CDL Training Near Paola?

CDL Training Costs in Kansas

Trucking Jobs Near Paola

Compare CDL Schools in Paola

Tuition Costs in Paola

Nearby Cities

Need Help Choosing?

More in Kansas

DOT Physicals Near Paola

KC Chiropractic Health Center

Elite Chiropractic

CareNow Urgent Care - Olathe - North

CDL Testing & Division of Vehicles in Paola

Required Online Compliance Training

Frequently Asked Questions About CDL Training in Paola

Complete CDL Training Guide for Paola Area Residents

CDL Jobs in Kansas

Nearby Cities with More Options

Boost Your Earnings

Kansas CDL Requirements: What You Need to Know

Can't Afford CDL School?

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)

Related Resources