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 117 verified training programs serving the Lima, Ohio area.

FMCSA VERIFIED 2025

CDL Schools in Lima, OH

Are you looking for commercial driver training in Lima?We have identified 117 FMCSA-verified programs serving the Lima area (Pop: 36,024).

Quick Stats

117 Training Programs
ELDT Compliant
3-8 Week Programs
Pop: 36,024

Quick Facts: CDL Training in Lima, OH

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
117

117 CDL Schools Near Lima

Top Picks in Lima

Editor's Choice
#1 Editor's ChoiceVerified

Allen East

Harrod, OH

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#2 Editor's ChoiceVerified

Sunrise TC, Inc (Uniopolis)

Uniopolis, OH

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#3 Editor's ChoiceVerified

ODOT District 1 Beaverdam

Bluffton, OH

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Allen East

Harrod, OH
9.2 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified

Sunrise TC, Inc (Uniopolis)

Uniopolis, OH
9.8 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified

ODOT District 1 Beaverdam

Bluffton, OH
10.2 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified

Farmers Alliance, LLC

Wapakoneta, OH
11.5 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified

Wapakoneta City Schools

Wapakoneta, OH
12.2 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified

G. A. Wintzer & Son Co

Wapakoneta, OH
12.8 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified

Columbus Grove

Columbus Grove, OH
12.9 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified

Spencerville

Spencerville, OH
12.9 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified

ADA

Ada, OH
14.3 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified

Bluffton

Bluffton, OH
15.3 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified

Jennings

Fort Jennings, OH
15.4 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified

DD Ingredient LLC

Delphos, OH
15.5 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified

Pandora-Gilboa

Pandora, OH
16.1 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified

Upper Scioto Valley

McGuffey, OH
17.1 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified

BTS - Kalida

Kalida, OH
17.2 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified

Ottoville

Fort Jennings, OH
18.2 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified

Ottawa-Glandorf

Ottawa, OH
20 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified

Hardin Northern

Dola, OH
23.4 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified

Indian Lake Local Schools

Lewistown, OH
23.5 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified

Indian Lake Schools

Lewistown, OH
23.5 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified

Showing 20 of 105 schools

CDL Training in Lima, Ohio

<div class="space-y-4"> <p><strong>Lima, OH</strong> offers <strong>117 FMCSA-verified CDL training programs</strong> 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.</p> <p>CDL drivers in OH 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 Lima schools.</p> <p>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.</p> </div>

Why Get CDL Training Near Lima?

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

CDL Training Costs in Ohio

CDL training in Ohio 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 Lima

Get hired after you complete your CDL training

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

Top employers hiring near Lima: 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 Lima

Side-by-side comparison of top training programs

⚙️ Transmission:
Showing 15 schools
School Name
City
Program TypesKey FeaturesContact
ADA
FMCSA Verified
Class AClass BHazmat
Weekend ClassesVA Approved
Class AClass B
Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesEvening Classes
Allen East
FMCSA Verified
Class AClass B
Manual Trans.Weekend Classes
Alvada Trucking
FMCSA Verified
Class AClass BTanker
Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesVA Approved
Class ATanker
Manual Trans.
Anna Local Schools
FMCSA Verified
Class AClass BHazmat
Manual Trans.Evening ClassesVA Approved
Ansonia Local Schools
FMCSA Verified
Class AClass BTanker
Manual Trans.Evening Classes
Antwerp
FMCSA Verified
Class AClass B
Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesEvening ClassesVA Approved
Arlington
FMCSA Verified
Class ATanker
Weekend ClassesEvening Classes
Ayersville
FMCSA Verified
Class AClass B
Manual Trans.
Class AClass BHazmat
Weekend ClassesEvening Classes
Class AClass BHazmat
Manual Trans.VA Approved
Class ATanker
Manual Trans.Evening ClassesVA Approved
Black Swamp Trucking
FMCSA Verified
Class A
Manual Trans.VA Approved
Bluffton
FMCSA Verified
Class AClass BTanker
Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesVA Approved

Tuition Costs in Lima

Avg. Private School
$5,200
Avg. Public School
$3,500
Price Range
$2,900 - $6,500

Good mix of community colleges and private schools.

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CDL Testing & BMV in Lima

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

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Frequently Asked Questions About CDL Training in Lima

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