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 Madison, SD?

CDL training in Madison, SD 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 Madison?

Most CDL training programs in Madison 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 Madison, SD?

Yes, several CDL schools in the Madison 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 Madison 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 6 verified training programs serving the Madison, South Dakota area.

FMCSA VERIFIED 2025

CDL Schools in Madison, SD

Are you looking for commercial driver training in Madison?We have identified 6 FMCSA-verified programs serving the Madison area (Pop: 269,840).

Quick Stats

6 Training Programs

ELDT Compliant

3-8 Week Programs

Pop: 269,840

Quick Facts: CDL Training in Madison, SD

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

6 CDL Schools Near Madison

CDL Training Market in Madison, SD (2026 Report)

Market Snapshot

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

Aspiring truck drivers in Madison 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 Madison 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.

Fast-Pass Trucking Training

Pierre, SD

1.2 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Summit Contracting - Pierre

Pierre, SD

3.6 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

D&M Harvesting LLC

Pierre, SD

3.8 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Dustin Hackens

Fort Pierre, SD

4.6 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Jerome Beverage Inc.

Pierre, SD

6.4 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

CDL Training in Madison, South Dakota

<div class="space-y-4"> Madison, SD offers 6 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 SD 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 Madison 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 Madison?

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

CDL Training Costs in South Dakota

CDL training in South Dakota 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 South Dakota

Trucking Jobs Near Madison

Get hired after you complete your CDL training

$45,000 - $75,000

Average annual salary for CDL drivers in South Dakota

2,500+

Open trucking positions in South Dakota

Top employers hiring near Madison: 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 Madison

Side-by-side comparison of top training programs

Filter:

⚙️ Transmission:

Showing 6 schools

School Name	City	Program Types	Key Features	Contact
D&M Harvesting LLC FMCSA Verified	Pierre	Class AHazmat	Manual Trans.Evening Classes	View Details
Dustin Hackens FMCSA Verified	Fort Pierre	Class AClass B	Manual Trans.Evening Classes	View Details
Fast-Pass Trucking Training FMCSA Verified	Pierre	Class A	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesVA Approved	View Details
Jerome Beverage Inc. FMCSA Verified	Pierre	Class A	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesEvening ClassesVA Approved	View Details
River Cities Public Transit FMCSA Verified	Pierre	Class A	Manual Trans.VA Approved	View Details
Summit Contracting - Pierre FMCSA Verified	Pierre	Class AClass BHazmat	Evening Classes	View Details

Tuition Costs in Madison

Avg. Private School

$4,400

Avg. Public School

$2,900

Price Range

$2,600 - $5,600

Very affordable Midwest training.

Nearby Cities

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

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CDL Testing & DPS in Madison

2001 Bartillon Dr, Madison, WI 53704

(608) 264-7447

Schedule your CDL knowledge and road tests at the Madison DMV. State capital - CDL testing

Visit Madison CDL DPS

Frequently Asked Questions About CDL Training in Madison

How long does CDL training take in Madison?

CDL training programs in Madison, SD 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 South Dakota?

CDL training costs in South Dakota 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 Madison without quitting my job?

Yes, several CDL schools in the Madison 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 Madison 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 South Dakota?

Yes, several funding options exist for CDL training in South Dakota: 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 Madison?

The CDL driver job outlook near Madison, SD is strong. The American Trucking Associations reports a shortage of 80,000+ drivers nationally, with South Dakota 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 Madison?

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 Madison 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 South Dakota, including training programs in Madison 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 South Dakota

📋

Guide

CDL Schools in Madison, SD

Quick Stats

Quick Facts: CDL Training in Madison, SD

6 CDL Schools Near Madison

CDL Training Market in Madison, SD (2026 Report)

Market Snapshot

Fast-Pass Trucking Training

Summit Contracting - Pierre

D&M Harvesting LLC

Dustin Hackens

Jerome Beverage Inc.

CDL Training in Madison, South Dakota

Why Get CDL Training Near Madison?

CDL Training Costs in South Dakota

Trucking Jobs Near Madison

Compare CDL Schools in Madison

Tuition Costs in Madison

Nearby Cities

Need Help Choosing?

More in South Dakota

CDL Testing & DPS in Madison

Frequently Asked Questions About CDL Training in Madison

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)

Related Resources

DriveSchoolHub.com

CDLSchoolsUSA.com