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.

How much does CDL training cost in Trenton, NJ?

CDL training in Trenton, NJ 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 Trenton?

Most CDL training programs in Trenton 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 Trenton, NJ?

Yes, several CDL schools in the Trenton 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 Trenton 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 152 verified training programs serving the Trenton, New Jersey area.

FMCSA VERIFIED 2025

CDL Schools in Trenton, NJ

Are you looking for commercial driver training in Trenton?We have identified 152 FMCSA-verified programs serving the Trenton area (Pop: 90,871).

Quick Stats

152 Training Programs

ELDT Compliant

3-8 Week Programs

Pop: 90,871

Quick Facts: CDL Training in Trenton, NJ

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

152

Local CDL training answer

How should students compare CDL schools in Trenton, NJ?

Students comparing CDL schools in Trenton, NJ 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 152 training programsserving the Trenton area and is intended to help students request information without exposing private school contact data publicly.

152 CDL Schools Near Trenton

CDL Training Market in Trenton, NJ (2026 Report)

Market Snapshot

Active Schools4
ELDT Verified4
Average Tuition$3,500
Starting From$3,500
Weekend TrainingAvailable

Aspiring truck drivers in Trenton have access to 4 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 Trenton 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 Trenton

Editor's Choice

#1 Editor's ChoiceVerified

Safe Smart CDL Training

Trenton, NJ

class_a_theoryclass_a_behind_the_wheel_rangeclass_a_behind_the_wheel_public_road

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#2 Editor's ChoiceVerified

Kulish III Enterprises

CDL Training in Trenton, New Jersey

Trenton, New Jersey has 152 FMCSA-verified CDL training programs serving students in 2026. The Port Newark-Elizabeth complex is the busiest port on the East Coast, and NJ Turnpike is the most heavily traveled freight corridor in America. Average CDL driver salary in New Jersey is about $61,200 per year, with experienced drivers reaching $85,000. The port & last-mile sector creates high demand for qualified CDL holders near Trenton, and major freight corridors such as NJ Turnpike/I-78/I-80 connect graduates to local, regional, and long-haul work. Every school listed on this page is tied to FMCSA Training Provider Registry review, which matters because ELDT completion must come from a registered provider before a first-time CDL applicant can take the skills test.

Why Get CDL Training Near Trenton?

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

CDL Training Costs in New Jersey

CDL training in New Jersey 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 New Jersey

Trucking Jobs Near Trenton

Get hired after you complete your CDL training

$45,000 - $75,000

Average annual salary for CDL drivers in New Jersey

2,500+

Open trucking positions in New Jersey

Top employers hiring near Trenton: 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 Trenton

Side-by-side comparison of top training programs

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⚙️ Transmission:

Showing 15 schools

School Name	City	Program Types	Key Features	Contact
1 Mile At A Time Trucking & Training LLC FMCSA Verified		Class A	Manual Trans.VA Approved	View Details
160 Driving Academy FMCSA Verified	Pennsauken Township	Class AClass BHazmat		View Details
160 Driving Academy FMCSA Verified	Bethlehem	Class AClass BHazmat		View Details
160 Driving Academy FMCSA Verified	Stockertown	Class AClass BHazmat		View Details
160 Driving Academy - Bethlehem Yard FMCSA Verified	Stockertown	Class ATanker	Manual Trans.Evening Classes	View Details
160 Driving Academy - Brookdale Classroom FMCSA Verified	Lincroft	Class AClass BTanker	Manual Trans.Weekend Classes	View Details
160 Driving Academy - Brookdale Yard FMCSA Verified	Freehold	Class A	Manual Trans.Evening Classes	View Details
160 Driving Academy - Trenton Classroom FMCSA Verified	Trenton	Class ATanker	Manual Trans.Evening Classes	View Details
160 Driving Academy - Trenton Yard FMCSA Verified	Trenton	Class AClass BHazmat	Manual Trans.Evening ClassesVA Approved	View Details
180 CDL Entry Level LLC FMCSA Verified	Phillipsburg	Class ATanker	VA Approved	View Details
1st Premier Trucking Academy FMCSA Verified		Class ATanker	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesEvening Classes	View Details
4033 - Freehold, - NJ - Summit School Services, LLC FMCSA Verified	Freehold	Class AClass BTanker	Weekend Classes	View Details
4158 - Newtown - PA - Summit School Services, LLC FMCSA Verified	Newtown	Class AHazmat	Manual Trans.	View Details
A & P Driving School FMCSA Verified	Plainfield	Class ATanker	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesVA Approved	View Details
AAA School of Trucking - Philadelphia Campus FMCSA Verified	Philadelphia	Class AHazmatTanker	Manual Trans.Evening ClassesVA Approved	View Details

Tuition Costs in Trenton

Avg. Private School

$7,800

Avg. Public School

$5,000

Price Range

$4,200 - $9,500

High costs due to proximity to NYC market.

Nearby Cities

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DOT Physicals Near Trenton

Required for your CDL medical card

CVS MinuteClinic

2301 E Lincoln Hwy, Langhorne

(866) 389-2727

4.6

$89-$139

Walk-ins OK

FastMed Urgent Care - Cherry Hill

8974 First St, Cherry Hill

(908) 916-2163

3.9

$100-$168

Walk-ins OK

GoHealth Urgent Care - North Trenton

4085 Main St, Trenton

(908) 970-6606

3.6

$104-$174

Walk-ins OK

View All 28 Clinics in Trenton All Locations

💡 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 & MVC in Trenton

120 S Stockton St, Trenton, NJ 08611

(609) 292-6500

Schedule your CDL knowledge and road tests at the Trenton MVC. State capital - CDL testing

Visit Trenton CDL MVC

Frequently Asked Questions About CDL Training in Trenton

How long does CDL training take in Trenton?

CDL training programs in Trenton, NJ 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 New Jersey?

CDL training costs in New Jersey 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 Trenton without quitting my job?

Yes, several CDL schools in the Trenton 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 Trenton 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 New Jersey?

Yes, several funding options exist for CDL training in New Jersey: 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 Trenton?

The CDL driver job outlook near Trenton, NJ is strong. The American Trucking Associations reports a shortage of 80,000+ drivers nationally, with New Jersey 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 Trenton?

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 Trenton 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 New Jersey, including training programs in Trenton 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 New Jersey

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Guide

CDL Schools in Trenton, NJ

Quick Stats

Quick Facts: CDL Training in Trenton, NJ

How should students compare CDL schools in Trenton, NJ?

152 CDL Schools Near Trenton

CDL Training Market in Trenton, NJ (2026 Report)

Market Snapshot

Top Picks in Trenton

Safe Smart CDL Training

Kulish III Enterprises

Cheapest ELDT only 2500 for CDL

Safe Smart CDL Training

Kulish III Enterprises

Cheapest ELDT only 2500 for CDL

KEVIN TRANSPORTATION INC.

1 Mile At A Time Trucking & Training LLC

Tri-State Safety

SOVALE TRANSPORTATION LLC

N&Y Transportation inc,

Habab Transportation LLC

Scholars Pride LLC

Eclipse DOT

CDL LAB

AJ Fickett

Peter M Goldring Consulting LLC

ELDT Academy, LLC - Travelling CDL Instructors

ELDT Solutions - On Site CDL Training

1st Premier Trucking Academy

CDL Solutions LLC

CDL Solutions

160 Driving Academy - Trenton Yard

CDL Training in Trenton, New Jersey

Why Get CDL Training Near Trenton?

CDL Training Costs in New Jersey

Trucking Jobs Near Trenton

Compare CDL Schools in Trenton

Tuition Costs in Trenton

Nearby Cities

Need Help Choosing?

More in New Jersey

DOT Physicals Near Trenton

CVS MinuteClinic

FastMed Urgent Care - Cherry Hill

GoHealth Urgent Care - North Trenton

CDL Testing & MVC in Trenton

Frequently Asked Questions About CDL Training in Trenton

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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