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 Harrisburg, PA?

CDL training in Harrisburg, PA 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 Harrisburg?

Most CDL training programs in Harrisburg 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 Harrisburg, PA?

Yes, several CDL schools in the Harrisburg 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 Harrisburg 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 40 verified training programs serving the Harrisburg, Pennsylvania area.

MANUAL AVAILABLE

FMCSA VERIFIED 2025

Harrisburg CDL Schools: Manual Transmission & Weekend Training

Class A & B CDL Training in Harrisburg – No Automatic Restriction

Get your Class A CDL in Harrisburg. Find schools offering Manual Transmission (10-speed) and Class B training. We've identified 40 FMCSA-verified programs in your area.

Quick Stats

40 Training Programs

Manual Transmission (10-Speed)

Weekend & Evening Classes

ELDT Compliant

3-8 Week Programs

Pop: 50,099

⚙️ Why Harrisburg Students Should Choose Manual Transmission Training

Many Pennsylvania employers prefer drivers without the "E" (Automatic Only) restriction on their CDL. Getting a full Class A with Manual Transmission qualification opens more job opportunities. Harrisburg area schools offering weekend and evening classes help working adults get trained without quitting their day job.

Manual Transmission (10-Speed)

Weekend & Evening Classes

Class B CDL

Quick Facts: CDL Training in Harrisburg, PA

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

Local CDL training answer

How should students compare CDL schools in Harrisburg, PA?

Students comparing CDL schools in Harrisburg, PA 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 40 training programsserving the Harrisburg area and is intended to help students request information without exposing private school contact data publicly.

40 CDL Schools Near Harrisburg

CDL Training Market in Harrisburg, PA (2026 Report)

Market Snapshot

Active Schools2
ELDT Verified2
Average Tuition$3,500
Starting From$3,500
Weekend TrainingAvailable

Aspiring truck drivers in Harrisburg have access to 2 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 $7,000.

Many schools in Harrisburg 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 Harrisburg

Editor's Choice

#1 Editor's ChoiceVerified

The CDL Coach

Harrisburg, PA

class_a_theoryclass_a_behind_the_wheel_rangeclass_a_behind_the_wheel_public_road

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#2 Editor's ChoiceVerified

Advanced CDL Solutions LLC

CDL Training in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania

Harrisburg, Pennsylvania has 40 FMCSA-verified CDL training programs serving students in 2026. Pennsylvania sits at the crossroads of the I-80/I-76/I-81 corridor—one of the busiest freight networks in the eastern US. The manufacturing & logistics sector creates high demand for qualified CDL holders, and major freight corridors such as Pennsylvania Turnpike (I-76/I-476) connect new drivers to local, regional, and interstate opportunities. Average CDL driver salary in Pennsylvania is about $58,200 per year, with experienced drivers earning up to $75,000.

Why Get CDL Training Near Harrisburg?

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

CDL Training Costs in Pennsylvania

CDL training in Pennsylvania 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 Pennsylvania

Trucking Jobs Near Harrisburg

Get hired after you complete your CDL training

$45,000 - $75,000

Average annual salary for CDL drivers in Pennsylvania

2,500+

Open trucking positions in Pennsylvania

Top employers hiring near Harrisburg: 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 Harrisburg

Side-by-side comparison of top training programs

Filter:

⚙️ Transmission:

Showing 15 schools

School Name	City	Program Types	Key Features	Contact
Professionsl Drivers Academy FMCSA Verified	Milton	Class AClass BHazmatTanker	Manual Trans.Evening Classes	View Details
160 Driving Academy - Lebanon Classroom FMCSA Verified	Lebanon	Class ATanker	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesVA Approved	View Details
160 Driving Academy - Lebanon Yard FMCSA Verified	Lebanon	Class AClass B	Manual Trans.Evening Classes	View Details
1st Premier Trucking Academy FMCSA Verified		Class AClass B	Manual Trans.Evening ClassesVA Approved	View Details
AAA School of Trucking - Harrisburg Campus FMCSA Verified	Harrisburg	Class A	Weekend Classes	View Details
Advanced CDL Solutions LLC FMCSA Verified		Class AClass B	Manual Trans.Evening Classes	View Details
AJ Fickett FMCSA Verified		Class A	Evening ClassesVA Approved	View Details
Berks Technical Institute - Lewisburg FMCSA Verified	Lewisburg	Class AHazmatTanker	VA Approved	View Details
Berks Technical Institute - Wyomissing FMCSA Verified	Wyomissing	Class AClass BTanker	Manual Trans.VA Approved	View Details
Bussard Enterprises, LLC FMCSA Verified		Class AClass BHazmatTanker	VA Approved	View Details
CDL LAB FMCSA Verified		Class AClass BHazmatTanker	Weekend ClassesEvening ClassesVA Approved	View Details
Central Penn CDL Academy FMCSA Verified	Gap	Class AHazmat	Evening ClassesVA Approved	View Details
CJM Logistics FMCSA Verified		Class ATanker		View Details
CNS Driver Training Center of PA FMCSA Verified	Lititz	Class AClass BTanker	Evening ClassesVA Approved	View Details
CROWN CENTER FMCSA Verified		Class AHazmat	Manual Trans.Weekend Classes	View Details

Tuition Costs in Harrisburg

Avg. Private School

$6,800

Avg. Public School

$4,200

Price Range

$3,500 - $8,500

Higher costs in Philadelphia area, cheaper in rural PA.

Nearby Cities

Need Help Choosing?

Take our free quiz to get matched with schools that fit your needs, budget, and schedule.

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DOT Physicals Near Harrisburg

Required for your CDL medical card

Walgreens Healthcare Clinic - Downtown Harrisburg

5887 Main St, Harrisburg

(724) 401-4250

$81-$134

Walk-ins OK

AFC Urgent Care - East Harrisburg

2188 Professional Dr, Harrisburg

(412) 347-4242

4.8

$67-$140

Walk-ins OK

Concentra Urgent Care - York

4112 Washington Blvd, York

(814) 120-3786

4.8

$80-$147

Walk-ins OK

View All 3 Clinics in Harrisburg 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 & PennDOT in Harrisburg

2535 N 7th St, Harrisburg, PA 17110

(717) 412-5300

Schedule your CDL knowledge and road tests at the Harrisburg PennDOT. State capital - full CDL services

Visit Harrisburg CDL PennDOT

Manual (No Restrictions) Training in Other Pennsylvania Cities

Explore CDL schools with manual (no restrictions) and weekend classes training in nearby Pennsylvania cities.

Manual Transmission (10-Speed)

Weekend & Evening Classes

Class B CDL

View All Pennsylvania CDL Schools

🏭 Specialized Pennsylvania Trucking Careers

Harrisburg area drivers have access to high-demand, premium-pay niches in Pennsylvania's industrial economy.

🏗️

$65K-$85K

Steel & Heavy Haul

Cleveland-Cliffs, Butler Works. Steel coil securement and flatbed skills.

View Program

⚗️

$70K-$90K

Polymers & Tankers

Shell Cracker Plant. Pneumatic tankers and dry bulk for the petrochemical industry.

View Program

🔥

$60K-$85K

Energy Sector

Marcellus Shale. Water hauling, sand trucking, and vacuum trucks for natural gas.

View Program

Frequently Asked Questions About CDL Training in Harrisburg

How long does CDL training take in Harrisburg?

CDL training programs in Harrisburg, PA 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 Pennsylvania?

CDL training costs in Pennsylvania 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 Harrisburg without quitting my job?

Yes, several CDL schools in the Harrisburg 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 Harrisburg 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 Pennsylvania?

Yes, several funding options exist for CDL training in Pennsylvania: 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 are the CDL requirements in Pennsylvania?

Pennsylvania requires you to be at least 18 for intrastate or 21 for interstate CDL. You must pass the FMCSA medical exam, hold a valid PA driver's license, pass the CDL written knowledge test at a PennDOT location, and pass the skills test (pre-trip inspection, basic controls, road test). Pennsylvania allows manual and automatic restriction CDLs—schools that train on manual transmission eliminate the restriction, giving you more job options.

What CDL endorsements should Harrisburg drivers get?

In Harrisburg, PA, the most valuable CDL endorsements are: Hazmat (H) for hauling chemicals along the I-76/I-80 industrial corridor, Tanker (N) for fuel delivery, and Doubles/Triples (T) for LTL freight companies like Old Dominion and XPO. The combination Hazmat-Tanker endorsement typically adds $5,000-$8,000 to annual salary.

Complete CDL Training Guide for Harrisburg Area Residents

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

CDL Jobs in Pennsylvania

Average Salary

$50,000 - $70,000

Key Industries

steel, manufacturing, healthcare, and energy (Marcellus Shale)

In-Demand Specializations

Flatbed for steel
Tanker for petrochemicals
Energy sector hauling

Major Routes

I-76, I-78, I-80, I-81

Top Employers

Cleveland-Cliffs, XPO Logistics, FedEx, Shell

Funding Options

PA CareerLink WIOA, WEDnetPA

Nearby Cities with More Options

Consider these nearby cities with more FMCSA-verified CDL schools:

All Pennsylvania CDL Schools

Browse all cities

View All Pennsylvania Schools

Boost Your Earnings

After getting your CDL, consider these additional certifications to increase your earning potential:

☢️

Hazmat Endorsement Training

Get your hazardous materials endorsement

+$5,000-$10,000/yr

🛡️

Commercial Defensive Driving

Reduce points and insurance premiums

Lower insurance

📦

Cargo Securement Certification

Essential training for flatbed hauling

+$3,000-$8,000/yr

🏥

HIPAA for Medical Couriers

Certification for medical transport drivers

+$4,000-$7,000/yr

Find Your Perfect School

Pennsylvania 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

This page lists FMCSA-verified CDL schools in Pennsylvania, including training programs in Harrisburg and surrounding cities. All listed programs meet Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) requirements.

📚