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 7 verified training programs serving the Castlewood, South Dakota area.

FMCSA VERIFIED 2025

CDL Schools in Castlewood, SD

Are you looking for commercial driver training in Castlewood?We have identified 7 FMCSA-verified programs serving the Castlewood area (Pop: 5,000).

Quick Stats

7 Training Programs
ELDT Compliant
3-8 Week Programs
Pop: 5,000

Quick Facts: CDL Training in Castlewood, 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
7

Local CDL training answer

How should students compare CDL schools in Castlewood, SD?

Students comparing CDL schools in Castlewood, SD 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 7 training programsserving the Castlewood area and is intended to help students request information without exposing private school contact data publicly.

7 CDL Schools Near Castlewood

Dawson-Boyd Public School

Dawson, MN
49.8 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified
+1 XXX-XXX-XXXX

Protected from bots

Hunkes Transfer South Dakota

WATERTOWN, SD
12.3 miles away
+1 XXX-XXX-XXXX

Protected from bots

Lake Area Technical College

Watertown, SD
12.7 miles away
+1 XXX-XXX-XXXX

Protected from bots

Timmons Transportation, LLC

Toronto, SD
21.8 miles away

S&W Construction INC

BROOKINGS, SD
30.9 miles away
+1 XXX-XXX-XXXX

Protected from bots

Bowes Construction

Brookings, SD
33.8 miles away
+1 XXX-XXX-XXXX

Protected from bots

CDL Training in Castlewood, South Dakota

Castlewood, South Dakota offers 7 FMCSA-verified CDL training programs for aspiring commercial drivers in 2026. Whether you need a Class A CDL for tractor-trailers or a Class B CDL for straight trucks, compare the programs below by tuition, training length, public enrollment status, and available endorsements. Full-time CDL training often takes 4-8 weeks, while part-time, evening, and weekend options may take longer. Before enrolling, confirm the provider is listed in the FMCSA Training Provider Registry and ask whether the school offers job placement, manual transmission training, WIOA or veteran funding support, and behind-the-wheel practice that matches your target CDL class.

Why Get CDL Training Near Castlewood?

  • 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.

Trucking Jobs Near Castlewood

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 Castlewood: 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 Castlewood

Side-by-side comparison of top training programs

⚙️ Transmission:
Showing 7 schools
School Name
City
Program TypesKey FeaturesContact
Bowes Construction
FMCSA Verified
Class AClass B
Manual Trans.Weekend Classes
Dawson
Class AClass BHazmat
Manual Trans.Weekend Classes
Hunkes Transfer South Dakota
FMCSA Verified
Class A
Manual Trans.
Lake Area Technical College
FMCSA Verified
Class ATanker
Manual Trans.Evening ClassesVA Approved
Ortonville
Class A
Manual Trans.VA Approved
S&W Construction INC
FMCSA Verified
Class AClass B
Manual Trans.VA Approved
Timmons Transportation, LLC
FMCSA Verified
Toronto
Class AClass B
Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesEvening Classes

Tuition Costs in Castlewood

Avg. Private School
$4,400
Avg. Public School
$2,900
Price Range
$2,600 - $5,600

Very affordable Midwest training.

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 Castlewood

Required for your CDL medical card

Core Chiropractic & Wellness

2013 Willow Creek Dr Ste 1, Watertown
4.9

HealthSource Chiropractic of Watertown

1024 29th St SE, Watertown
5

Jessica Horn, MD

506 1st Ave SE, Watertown
4.9

💡 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 & DPS in Castlewood

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

Find DPS Office

Required Online Compliance Training

Before driving for a fleet operating out of Castlewood, most employers require current DOT/FMCSA certifications. Complete training online, at your own pace.

Frequently Asked Questions About CDL Training in Castlewood

How long does CDL training take in Castlewood?
CDL training programs in Castlewood, 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 Castlewood without quitting my job?
Yes, several CDL schools in the Castlewood 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 Castlewood 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 Castlewood?
The CDL driver job outlook near Castlewood, 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 Castlewood?
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 Castlewood CDL schools offer both options. If unsure, get the Class A, it qualifies you for Class B jobs too.