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.

Do CDL schools provide certification?

Yes, accredited CDL training schools prepare students for their commercial driver license (CDL) certification exam. After completing an ELDT-approved program, students are eligible to take the CDL skills test at their state DMV. CDL Schools USA lists only FMCSA-verified schools that meet federal certification training standards.

What is the difference between CDL certification and CDL training?

CDL training refers to the hands-on instruction and classroom education provided by truck driving schools. CDL certification is the official credential you receive after passing your state CDL skills test. Accredited CDL training programs prepare you for certification by covering required ELDT theory and behind-the-wheel hours.

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 Raleigh, NC?

CDL training in Raleigh, NC 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 Raleigh?

Most CDL training programs in Raleigh 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 Raleigh, NC?

Yes, several CDL schools in the Raleigh 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 Raleigh 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 54 verified training programs serving the Raleigh, North Carolina area.

FMCSA VERIFIED 2025

CDL Schools in Raleigh, NC

Are you looking for commercial driver training in Raleigh?We have identified 54 FMCSA-verified programs serving the Raleigh area (Pop: 474,069).

Quick Stats

54 Training Programs

ELDT Compliant

3-8 Week Programs

Pop: 474,069

Quick Facts: CDL Training in Raleigh, NC

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

54 CDL Schools Near Raleigh

CDL Training Market in Raleigh, NC (2026 Report)

Market Snapshot

Active Schools7
ELDT Verified7
Average Tuition$3,000
Starting From$3,000
Weekend TrainingAvailable

Aspiring truck drivers in Raleigh have access to 7 FMCSA-verified training programs for the 2026 academic year.

The market is competitive, with tuition ranging from an affordable $3,000 up to premium programs around $6,000.

Many schools in Raleigh 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.

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Top Picks in Raleigh

Editor's Choice

#1 Editor's ChoiceVerified

Charlie’s CDL School LLC

Raleigh, NC

Call Now

#2 Editor's ChoiceVerified

Eclipse DOT

CDL Training in Raleigh, North Carolina

<div class="space-y-4"> Raleigh, NC offers 54 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 NC 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 Raleigh 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 Raleigh?

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

CDL Training Costs in North Carolina

CDL training in North Carolina 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 North Carolina

Trucking Jobs Near Raleigh

Get hired after you complete your CDL training

$45,000 - $75,000

Average annual salary for CDL drivers in North Carolina

2,500+

Open trucking positions in North Carolina

Top employers hiring near Raleigh: 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 Raleigh

Side-by-side comparison of top training programs

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⚙️ Transmission:

Showing 15 schools

School Name	City	Program Types	Key Features	Contact
160 Driving Academy FMCSA Verified	Clayton	Class AClass BHazmat		View Details
160 Driving Academy - Raleigh Classroom FMCSA Verified	Garner	Class AClass B	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesEvening ClassesVA Approved	View Details
1st Premier Trucking Academy FMCSA Verified		Class A	Manual Trans.VA Approved	View Details
A2Z Trucking Academy FMCSA Verified	Wilson	Class AClass BHazmat	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesEvening ClassesVA Approved	View Details
Advanced CDL Solutions LLC FMCSA Verified		Class AClass BHazmat	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesVA Approved	View Details
ALS FMCSA Verified		Class AHazmat		View Details
Best Driving Academy FMCSA Verified	Burlington	Class AClass B	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesVA Approved	View Details
Carolina Trucking Academy LLC FMCSA Verified	Raleigh	Class AHazmatTanker	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesVA Approved	View Details
Charlie’s CDL School LLC FMCSA Verified	Raleigh	Class AClass B	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesVA Approved	View Details
Cheapest ELDT only 2500 for CDL FMCSA Verified		Class AClass BHazmatTanker	Weekend Classes	View Details
Compass CDT LLC FMCSA Verified		Class AClass BHazmat	Weekend Classes	View Details
Durham Public Schools Staff Development Center FMCSA Verified	Durham	Class AClass BTanker	Manual Trans.Evening Classes	View Details
Durham Public Schools Transportation FMCSA Verified	Durham	Class AClass B	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesVA Approved	View Details
East Cary Middle School FMCSA Verified	Cary	Class AClass BHazmatTanker	Evening Classes	View Details
Eclipse DOT FMCSA Verified		Class AClass B	Evening ClassesVA Approved	View Details

Tuition Costs in Raleigh

Avg. Private School

$5,500

Avg. Public School

$3,200

Price Range

$2,600 - $6,800

Community colleges offer excellent value.

Nearby Cities

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DOT Physicals Near Raleigh

Required for your CDL medical card

Walgreens Healthcare Clinic - Raleigh

7905 Tech Center Dr, Raleigh

(336) 494-6513

4.5

$82-$123

Concentra Urgent Care

7024 Knightdale Blvd, Knightdale

(919) 217-3555

4.2

$75-$125

Concentra Urgent Care

2515 Meridian Pkwy, Durham

(919) 484-9900

3.9

$75-$125

Walk-ins OK

View All 48 Clinics in Raleigh 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 & DMV in Raleigh

3101 Mail Service Ctr, Raleigh, NC 27699

(919) 715-7000

Schedule your CDL knowledge and road tests at the Raleigh DMV. State capital - full CDL services

Visit Raleigh CDL DMV

Frequently Asked Questions About CDL Training in Raleigh

How long does CDL training take in Raleigh?

CDL training programs in Raleigh, NC 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 North Carolina?

CDL training costs in North Carolina 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 Raleigh without quitting my job?

Yes, several CDL schools in the Raleigh 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 Raleigh 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 North Carolina?

Yes, several funding options exist for CDL training in North Carolina: 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 Raleigh?

The CDL driver job outlook near Raleigh, NC is strong. The American Trucking Associations reports a shortage of 80,000+ drivers nationally, with North Carolina 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 Raleigh?

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 Raleigh 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 North Carolina, including training programs in Raleigh 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 North Carolina

📋

Guide

CDL Schools in Raleigh, NC

Quick Stats

Quick Facts: CDL Training in Raleigh, NC

54 CDL Schools Near Raleigh

CDL Training Market in Raleigh, NC (2026 Report)

Market Snapshot

Top Picks in Raleigh

Charlie’s CDL School LLC

Eclipse DOT

Cheapest ELDT only 2500 for CDL

Charlie’s CDL School LLC

Eclipse DOT

Cheapest ELDT only 2500 for CDL

1st Premier Trucking Academy

Advanced CDL Solutions LLC

ALS

Compass CDT LLC

G and O Transport LLC

Spencer Summitt, LLC

Kulish III Enterprises

TRCC Transport INC.

Way The Bald Rolls

Student Transport

The CDL Coach

ELDT Academy, LLC - Travelling CDL Instructors

The academy

Safe Smart CDL Training

Fas Trakk Group, LLC

Five Star Driver Training and Safety Consulting

Research Triangle Academy

CDL Training in Raleigh, North Carolina

Why Get CDL Training Near Raleigh?

CDL Training Costs in North Carolina

Trucking Jobs Near Raleigh

Compare CDL Schools in Raleigh

Tuition Costs in Raleigh

Nearby Cities

Need Help Choosing?

More in North Carolina

DOT Physicals Near Raleigh

Walgreens Healthcare Clinic - Raleigh

Concentra Urgent Care

Concentra Urgent Care

CDL Testing & DMV in Raleigh

Frequently Asked Questions About CDL Training in Raleigh

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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