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 Sidney, MT?

CDL training in Sidney, MT 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 Sidney?

Most CDL training programs in Sidney 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 Sidney, MT?

Yes, several CDL schools in the Sidney 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 Sidney 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 16 verified training programs serving the Sidney, Montana area.

FMCSA VERIFIED 2025

CDL Schools in Sidney, MT

Are you looking for commercial driver training in Sidney?We have identified 16 FMCSA-verified programs serving the Sidney area (Pop: 6,351).

Quick Stats

16 Training Programs

ELDT Compliant

3-8 Week Programs

Pop: 6,351

Quick Facts: CDL Training in Sidney, 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

16 CDL Schools Near Sidney

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Top Picks in Sidney

Editor's Choice

#1 Editor's ChoiceVerified

Baker Energy Services

Alexander, ND

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#2 Editor's ChoiceVerified

BXL Inc

Savage, MT

Call Now

#3 Editor's ChoiceVerified

Glendive, MT

49.8 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

CDL Training in Sidney, Montana

<div class="space-y-4"> Sidney, MT offers 16 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 MT 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 Sidney 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 Sidney?

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.

View all CDL schools in Montana

Trucking Jobs Near Sidney

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 Sidney: 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 Sidney

Side-by-side comparison of top training programs

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⚙️ Transmission:

Showing 15 schools

School Name	City	Program Types	Key Features	Contact
Badger Drilling and Well FMCSA Verified	Culbertson	Class AClass BHazmat	Manual Trans.Evening Classes	View Details
Badlands Electric Inc FMCSA Verified	Watford City	Class ATanker	Manual Trans.Weekend Classes	View Details
Baker Energy Services FMCSA Verified	Alexander	Class AHazmatTanker	VA Approved	View Details
Brockton, MT- NPGA FMCSA Verified	Brockton	Class A	Manual Trans.VA Approved	View Details
BXL Inc FMCSA Verified	Savage	Class AClass BHazmatTanker	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesEvening ClassesVA Approved	View Details
CCBCHC-Glendive FMCSA Verified	Glendive	Class AHazmat	Weekend ClassesEvening Classes	View Details
Froid, MT- NPGA FMCSA Verified	Froid	Class AClass BTanker	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesVA Approved	View Details
Glendive Public Schools FMCSA Verified	Glendive	Class A	Manual Trans.Evening Classes	View Details
Iba Drilling Company, Inc. FMCSA Verified	Glendive	Class A	Manual Trans.Evening Classes	View Details
Lonestar Oilfield Services LLC FMCSA Verified	Watford City	Class AHazmat	Manual Trans.VA Approved	View Details
Mann Energy llc FMCSA Verified	Watford City	Class AHazmatTanker	Manual Trans.	View Details
MDT Glendive FMCSA Verified	Glendive	Class ATanker	Weekend Classes	View Details
olson transport FMCSA Verified	Culbertson	Class ATanker	Evening ClassesVA Approved	View Details
RTC Networks-WC FMCSA Verified	Watford City	Class ATanker	Manual Trans.Weekend Classes	View Details
Train 4 Less Glendive FMCSA Verified	Glendive	Class ATanker	Manual Trans.Weekend Classes	View Details

Tuition Costs in Sidney

Avg. Private School

$5,000

Avg. Public School

$3,300

Price Range

$2,900 - $6,200

Sparse population means fewer school options.

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CDL Testing & MVD in Sidney

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

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Frequently Asked Questions About CDL Training in Sidney

How long does CDL training take in Sidney?

CDL training programs in Sidney, 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 Sidney without quitting my job?

Yes, several CDL schools in the Sidney 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 Sidney 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 Sidney?

The CDL driver job outlook near Sidney, 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 Sidney?

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 Sidney 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 Montana, including training programs in Sidney 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 Montana

📋

Guide

CDL Schools in Sidney, MT

Quick Stats

Quick Facts: CDL Training in Sidney, MT

16 CDL Schools Near Sidney

Top Picks in Sidney

Baker Energy Services

BXL Inc

Badger Drilling and Well

Baker Energy Services

BXL Inc

Badger Drilling and Well

olson transport

RTC Networks-WC

Watford

Mann Energy llc

Iba Drilling Company, Inc.

Froid, MT- NPGA

Brockton, MT- NPGA

Lonestar Oilfield Services LLC

Train 4 Less Glendive

Glendive Public Schools

MDT Glendive

CCBCHC-Glendive

CDL Training in Sidney, Montana

Why Get CDL Training Near Sidney?

CDL Training Costs in Montana

Trucking Jobs Near Sidney

Compare CDL Schools in Sidney

Tuition Costs in Sidney

Nearby Cities

Need Help Choosing?

More in Montana

CDL Testing & MVD in Sidney

Frequently Asked Questions About CDL Training in Sidney

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)

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