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 10 verified training programs serving the Shepherd, Montana area.

FMCSA VERIFIED 2025

CDL Schools in Shepherd, MT

Are you looking for commercial driver training in Shepherd?We have identified 10 FMCSA-verified programs serving the Shepherd area (Pop: 5,000).

Quick Stats

10 Training Programs
ELDT Compliant
3-8 Week Programs
Pop: 5,000

Quick Facts: CDL Training in Shepherd, MT

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
10

Local CDL training answer

How should students compare CDL schools in Shepherd, MT?

Students comparing CDL schools in Shepherd, MT 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 10 training programsserving the Shepherd area and is intended to help students request information without exposing private school contact data publicly.

10 CDL Schools Near Shepherd

CDL Training Market in Shepherd, MT (2026 Report)

Market Snapshot

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

Aspiring truck drivers in Shepherd 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 Shepherd 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.

Top Picks in Shepherd

Editor's Choice
#1 Editor's ChoiceVerified

Shepherd School Dist #37

Shepherd, MT

Call Now
#2 Editor's ChoiceVerified

Columbus Public Schools

Columbus, MT

Call Now
#3 Editor's ChoiceVerified

Little Big Horn College

Crow Agency, MT

Call Now

Shepherd School Dist #37

Shepherd, MT
In Shepherd
FMCSA ELDT Verified
+1 XXX-XXX-XXXX

Protected from bots

Columbus Public Schools

Columbus, MT
48.6 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified
+1 XXX-XXX-XXXX

Protected from bots

Little Big Horn College

Crow Agency, MT
49 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified
+1 XXX-XXX-XXXX

Protected from bots

160 Driving Academy

Billings, MT
9.3 miles away

MDT Billings

Billings, MT
15.8 miles away

Driving Academy

Billings, MT
16.5 miles away
+1 XXX-XXX-XXXX

Protected from bots

Legacy Trucking Academy

Billings, MT
16.9 miles away
+1 XXX-XXX-XXXX

Protected from bots

Sage Truck Driving School- Billings, MT

Billings, MT
17.3 miles away
+1 XXX-XXX-XXXX

Protected from bots

Laurel Public Schools

Laurel, MT
27.5 miles away
+1 XXX-XXX-XXXX

Protected from bots

GTA Truck Driving Institute

Hardin, MT
41.7 miles away
+1 XXX-XXX-XXXX

Protected from bots

CDL Training in Shepherd, Montana

Shepherd, Montana offers 10 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 Shepherd?

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

CDL Training Costs in Montana

CDL training in Montana 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 Shepherd

Get hired after you complete your CDL training

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

Top employers hiring near Shepherd: 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 Shepherd

Side-by-side comparison of top training programs

⚙️ Transmission:
Showing 10 schools
School Name
City
Program TypesKey FeaturesContact
160 Driving Academy
FMCSA Verified
Class AClass BHazmat
Class AClass BTanker
VA Approved
Driving Academy
FMCSA Verified
Class AClass BHazmatTanker
Manual Trans.Evening Classes
GTA Truck Driving Institute
FMCSA Verified
Class AHazmat
Weekend Classes
Laurel Public Schools
FMCSA Verified
Class AHazmatTanker
Weekend ClassesEvening ClassesVA Approved
Legacy Trucking Academy
FMCSA Verified
Class AClass BHazmatTanker
Class ATanker
Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesVA Approved
MDT Billings
FMCSA Verified
Class AClass BHazmat
Weekend ClassesVA Approved
Sage Truck Driving School- Billings, MT
FMCSA Verified
Class AClass BHazmat
Manual Trans.VA Approved
Class AClass BTanker
Manual Trans.Evening Classes

Tuition Costs in Shepherd

Avg. Private School
$5,000
Avg. Public School
$3,300
Price Range
$2,900 - $6,200

Sparse population means fewer school options.

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 Shepherd

Required for your CDL medical card

Stanley Chiropractic Clinic

1120 Broadwater Ave, Billings
4.8

MedWork Services

1625 Old Hardin Rd, Billings
4.7

Fuller Family Medicine

4045 Avenue B, Billings
3.2

💡 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 & MVD in Shepherd

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

Find MVD Office

Frequently Asked Questions About CDL Training in Shepherd

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

Complete CDL Training Guide for Shepherd Area Residents

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

CDL Jobs in Montana

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:

View All Montana Schools

Montana 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