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.

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.

How much does CDL training cost in Lexington, KY?

CDL training in Lexington, KY 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 Lexington?

Most CDL training programs in Lexington 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 Lexington, KY?

Yes, several CDL schools in the Lexington 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 Lexington 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 123 verified training programs serving the Lexington, Kentucky area.

FMCSA VERIFIED 2025

CDL Schools in Lexington, KY

Are you looking for commercial driver training in Lexington?We have identified 123 FMCSA-verified programs serving the Lexington area (Pop: 323,780).

Quick Stats

123 Training Programs

ELDT Compliant

3-8 Week Programs

Pop: 323,780

Quick Facts: CDL Training in Lexington, KY

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

123

123 CDL Schools Near Lexington

CDL Training Market in Lexington, KY (2026 Report)

Market Snapshot

Active Schools35
ELDT Verified35
Average Tuition$3,500
Starting From$3,500
Weekend TrainingAvailable

Aspiring truck drivers in Lexington have access to 35 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 Lexington 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 Lexington

Editor's Choice

#1 Editor's ChoiceVerified

Fire Dept. Headquarters

Lexington, KY

Call Now

#2 Editor's ChoiceVerified

Fayette County Public Schools

Lexington, KY

Call Now

#3 Editor's ChoiceVerified

Lexington, KY

3.2 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Showing 20 of 97 schools

CDL Training in Lexington, Kentucky

<div class="space-y-4"> Lexington, KY offers 123 FMCSA-verified CDL training programs for aspiring commercial drivers in 2026. Whether you're seeking a Class A CDL for tractor-trailer operation or a Class B CDL for straight trucks, the programs below are all registered in the federal Training Provider Registry (TPR)—the only database that counts for ELDT certification. CDL drivers in KY earn competitive salaries with strong job security. The national driver shortage continues to push starting pay higher, with many carriers offering signing bonuses of $5,000-$15,000 for new CDL holders. Training typically takes 4-8 weeks for full-time students, with weekend and evening options available at select Lexington schools. Compare tuition costs, program length, and specializations below. Look for schools that offer hazmat endorsement training, tanker certification, and job placement assistance—these add immediate earning potential to your CDL. Read our guide on <a href="/blog/is-cdl-school-worth-it-2026" class="text-blue-600 hover:underline">whether CDL school is worth it in 2026</a> for a detailed cost-benefit analysis. </div>

Why Get CDL Training Near Lexington?

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

CDL Training Costs in Kentucky

CDL training in Kentucky 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 Kentucky

Trucking Jobs Near Lexington

Get hired after you complete your CDL training

$45,000 - $75,000

Average annual salary for CDL drivers in Kentucky

2,500+

Open trucking positions in Kentucky

Top employers hiring near Lexington: 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 Lexington

Side-by-side comparison of top training programs

Filter:

⚙️ Transmission:

Showing 15 schools

School Name	City	Program Types	Key Features	Contact
Butler FMCSA Verified	Butler	Class AClass B	Manual Trans.Weekend Classes	View Details
160 Driving Academy - Lexington Classroom FMCSA Verified	Lexington	Class AHazmatTanker	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesEvening Classes	View Details
160 Driving Academy - Lexington Yard FMCSA Verified	Lexington	Class AClass BTanker	VA Approved	View Details
A.R.M. Safety FMCSA Verified	Lexington	Class AHazmat	Manual Trans.Evening Classes	View Details
Able and Ready Expedited Freight Courier FMCSA Verified	Cynthiana	Class AClass B	Weekend ClassesVA Approved	View Details
Ancora for McLane Cumberland, KY FMCSA Verified	Nicholasville	Class AClass BHazmatTanker	Weekend ClassesVA Approved	View Details
Asplundh Tree Expert LLC (Nicholasville KY) FMCSA Verified	Nicholasville	Class AClass B	Evening ClassesVA Approved	View Details
ATS Construction FMCSA Verified	Lexington	Class AHazmatTanker	Manual Trans.	View Details
Averitt Express Inc. LEX FMCSA Verified	Lexington	Class AHazmat	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesEvening Classes	View Details
Bartlett Tree Experts Lexington, KY FMCSA Verified	Lexington	Class AHazmatTanker	Weekend ClassesEvening Classes	View Details
Bath County Public Schools FMCSA Verified	Owingsville	Class A	Manual Trans.	View Details
Berea Board of Education FMCSA Verified	Berea	Class ATanker	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesEvening ClassesVA Approved	View Details
Berea community school FMCSA Verified	Berea	Class AClass BTanker	Weekend Classes	View Details
BGCAP FMCSA Verified	Frankfort	Class AClass BHazmat	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesEvening Classes	View Details
Big A Trucking LLC FMCSA Verified	Turners Station	Class AClass BHazmat	Manual Trans.Weekend Classes	View Details

Tuition Costs in Lexington

Avg. Private School

$4,800

Avg. Public School

$3,200

Price Range

$2,800 - $6,200

Louisville is a major logistics hub.

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 Lexington

Required for your CDL medical card

CVS MinuteClinic

2389 Richmond Rd, Lexington

(866) 389-2727

$89-$139

Walk-ins OK

UK HealthCare Urgent Care

1000 S Limestone St, Lexington

(859) 323-5000

4.2

$70-$135

Walk-ins OK

QuickMed Urgent Care - South Lexington

8859 Washington Blvd, Lexington

(859) 621-3266

$84-$149

View All 19 Clinics in Lexington All Locations

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

CDL Testing & Driver Licensing in Lexington

141 Leestown Ctr Way, Lexington, KY 40511

(859) 255-2931

Schedule your CDL knowledge and road tests at the Lexington Driver Licensing. CDL testing services

Visit Lexington CDL Driver Licensing

Frequently Asked Questions About CDL Training in Lexington

How long does CDL training take in Lexington?

CDL training programs in Lexington, KY 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 Kentucky?

CDL training costs in Kentucky 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 Lexington without quitting my job?

Yes, several CDL schools in the Lexington 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 Lexington 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 Kentucky?

Yes, several funding options exist for CDL training in Kentucky: 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 Lexington?

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

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 Lexington 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 Kentucky, including training programs in Lexington 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 Kentucky

📋

Guide

CDL Schools in Lexington, KY

Quick Stats

Quick Facts: CDL Training in Lexington, KY

123 CDL Schools Near Lexington

CDL Training Market in Lexington, KY (2026 Report)

Market Snapshot

Top Picks in Lexington

Fire Dept. Headquarters

Fayette County Public Schools

Lexington, KY - NPGA

Fire Dept. Headquarters

Lexington, KY - NPGA

Bartlett Tree Experts Lexington, KY

Lextran

Lexington Fire and Emergency Services

A.R.M. Safety

160 Driving Academy - Lexington Yard

Community Action Council

Train 4 Less Lexington

Parks and Recreation

Streets and Roads

Bluegrass Community and Technical College

Central Transport - 405

PWNA-Lexington

Community Corrections

ATS Construction

CITCO Water

Fleet Services

160 Driving Academy - Lexington Classroom

Clays Mill Baptist Church

CDL Training in Lexington, Kentucky

Why Get CDL Training Near Lexington?

CDL Training Costs in Kentucky

Trucking Jobs Near Lexington

Compare CDL Schools in Lexington

Tuition Costs in Lexington

Nearby Cities

Need Help Choosing?

More in Kentucky

DOT Physicals Near Lexington

CVS MinuteClinic

UK HealthCare Urgent Care

QuickMed Urgent Care - South Lexington

CDL Testing & Driver Licensing in Lexington

Frequently Asked Questions About CDL Training in Lexington

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