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 Traverse City, Michigan area.

FMCSA VERIFIED 2025

CDL Schools in Traverse City, MI

Are you looking for commercial driver training in Traverse City?We have identified 12 FMCSA-verified programs serving the Traverse City area (Pop: 15,569).

Quick Stats

12 Training Programs
ELDT Compliant
3-8 Week Programs
Pop: 15,569

Quick Facts: CDL Training in Traverse City, MI

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 Traverse City, MI?

Students comparing CDL schools in Traverse City, MI 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 Traverse City area and is intended to help students request information without exposing private school contact data publicly.

12 CDL Schools Near Traverse City

Top Picks in Traverse City

Editor's Choice
#1 Editor's ChoiceVerified

Kingsley Area Schools

Kingsley, MI

Call Now
#2 Editor's ChoiceVerified

Glen Lake Community Schools Bus Training

Maple City, MI

Call Now
#3 Editor's ChoiceVerified

Buckley Community Schools

Buckley, MI

Call Now

Kingsley Area Schools

Kingsley, MI
12.2 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified
+1 231-263-5261 ext. 5001

Glen Lake Community Schools Bus Training

Maple City, MI
15.9 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified
+1 231-334-3061

Buckley Community Schools

Buckley, MI
18.2 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified
+1 231-944-5672

Forest Area Community Schools

Fife Lake, MI
18.8 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified
+1 231-369-4191

K.P.S. Bus driver training

Kalkaska, MI
21 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified
+1 231-564-1518

KPSchools

Kalkaska, MI
21.6 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified
+1 231-564-1518

mesick schools

Mesick, MI
25.1 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified
+1 231-885-1201

Mancelona Public Schools

Mancelona, MI
28.6 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified
+1 231-340-0263

North Central Academy

Mancelona, MI
33.7 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified
+1 989-297-6412

Road Warrior Truck Driving School Inc.

Gaylord, MI
46.4 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified
+1 989-448-2336

Pinnacle Truck Driver Training

Cadillac, MI
34.2 miles away
+1 231-468-3170

CDL Training in Traverse City, Michigan

Traverse City, Michigan 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 Traverse City?

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

CDL Training Costs in Michigan

CDL training in Michigan 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 Traverse City

Get hired after you complete your CDL training

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

Top employers hiring near Traverse City: 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 Traverse City

Side-by-side comparison of top training programs

⚙️ Transmission:
Showing 12 schools
School Name
City
Program TypesKey FeaturesContact
Class A
Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesVA Approved
Class A
Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesEvening Classes
Class AClass BTanker
Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesEvening ClassesVA Approved
Class AClass B
Manual Trans.
Kingsley Area Schools
FMCSA Verified
Class AClass BTanker
Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesEvening Classes
KPSchools
FMCSA Verified
Class A
Manual Trans.
Class AHazmat
Weekend ClassesVA Approved
mesick schools
FMCSA Verified
Class AHazmatTanker
Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesVA Approved
North Central Academy
FMCSA Verified
Class AClass BHazmatTanker
Manual Trans.Weekend Classes
Class A
Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesEvening ClassesVA Approved
Class AClass B
Manual Trans.Evening Classes
Class A
Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesEvening Classes

Tuition Costs in Traverse City

Avg. Private School
$5,400
Avg. Public School
$3,600
Price Range
$3,000 - $6,800

Manufacturing state with steady trucking demand.

Need Help Choosing?

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

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CDL Testing & Secretary of State in Traverse City

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

Find Secretary of State Office

Required Online Compliance Training

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

Frequently Asked Questions About CDL Training in Traverse City

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