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 Nashville, TN?

CDL training in Nashville, TN 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 Nashville?

Most CDL training programs in Nashville 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 Nashville, TN?

Yes, several CDL schools in the Nashville 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 Nashville 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 72 verified training programs serving the Nashville, Tennessee area.

FMCSA VERIFIED 2025

CDL Schools in Nashville, TN

Are you looking for commercial driver training in Nashville?We have identified 72 FMCSA-verified programs serving the Nashville area (Pop: 689,447).

Quick Stats

72 Training Programs

ELDT Compliant

3-8 Week Programs

Pop: 689,447

Quick Facts: CDL Training in Nashville, TN

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 Nashville, TN?

Students comparing CDL schools in Nashville, TN 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 72 training programsserving the Nashville area and is intended to help students request information without exposing private school contact data publicly.

72 CDL Schools Near Nashville

CDL Training Market in Nashville, TN (2026 Report)

Market Snapshot

Active Schools8
ELDT Verified8
Average Tuition$3,500
Starting From$3,500
Weekend TrainingAvailable

Aspiring truck drivers in Nashville have access to 8 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 Nashville 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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#1 Editor's ChoiceVerified

Safe Smart CDL Training

Nashville, TN

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CDL Training in Nashville, Tennessee

Nashville, Tennessee offers 72 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 Nashville?

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

CDL Training Costs in Tennessee

CDL training in Tennessee 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 Tennessee

Trucking Jobs Near Nashville

Get hired after you complete your CDL training

$45,000 - $75,000

Average annual salary for CDL drivers in Tennessee

2,500+

Open trucking positions in Tennessee

Top employers hiring near Nashville: 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 Nashville

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.Evening Classes	View Details
160 Driving Academy - Nashville Classroom FMCSA Verified	Nashville	Class ATanker	Manual Trans.VA Approved	View Details
160 Driving Academy - Nashville Yard FMCSA Verified	Nashville	Class A	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesVA Approved	View Details
1st Premier Trucking Academy FMCSA Verified		Class ATanker	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesEvening Classes	View Details
5star C.D.L. Training Corp FMCSA Verified		Class A	Weekend Classes	View Details
5star C.D.L. Training Corp FMCSA Verified	Murfreesboro	Class AClass BTanker	Manual Trans.	View Details
7057 - Nashville Transit - TN - National Express FMCSA Verified	Antioch	Class AClass BHazmat	Manual Trans.Evening ClassesVA Approved	View Details
AD Smith CDL Training FMCSA Verified		Class A	Manual Trans.	View Details
Advanced CDL Solutions LLC FMCSA Verified		Class AHazmatTanker	Manual Trans.Weekend Classes	View Details
ALS FMCSA Verified		Class AHazmatTanker	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesEvening ClassesVA Approved	View Details
ARK DRIVING ACADAMY LLC FMCSA Verified	Mt. Juliet	Class AHazmatTanker	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesEvening ClassesVA Approved	View Details
Armored Trucking Academy, LLC FMCSA Verified	Clarksville	Class A	Manual Trans.Weekend Classes	View Details
Blackman High School FMCSA Verified	Murfreesboro	Class AHazmatTanker	Weekend Classes	View Details
Brian Tackett - Independent Instructor FMCSA Verified		Class ATanker	Manual Trans.VA Approved	View Details
Browning Mountain Training FMCSA Verified		Class AClass B	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesVA Approved	View Details

Tuition Costs in Nashville

Avg. Private School

$5,300

Avg. Public School

$3,400

Price Range

$2,900 - $6,500

Nashville and Memphis are trucking hubs.

Nearby Cities

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DOT Physicals Near Nashville

Required for your CDL medical card

Concentra Urgent Care

321 21st Ave N, Nashville

(615) 327-9200

$75-$125

Walk-ins OK

Concentra Urgent Care

501 Union St, Nashville

(615) 244-3555

4.7

$75-$125

Walk-ins OK

MedPro Occupational Health - South Nashville

2980 Market St, Nashville

(901) 467-8664

4.6

$96-$162

View All 24 Clinics in Nashville 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 & Driver Services in Nashville

3030 Dickerson Pike, Nashville, TN 37207

(615) 251-5166

Schedule your CDL knowledge and road tests at the Nashville Driver Services. State capital - full CDL services

Visit Nashville CDL Driver Services

Frequently Asked Questions About CDL Training in Nashville

How long does CDL training take in Nashville?

CDL training programs in Nashville, TN 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 Tennessee?

CDL training costs in Tennessee 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 Nashville without quitting my job?

Yes, several CDL schools in the Nashville 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 Nashville 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 Tennessee?

Yes, several funding options exist for CDL training in Tennessee: 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 Nashville?

The CDL driver job outlook near Nashville, TN is strong. The American Trucking Associations reports a shortage of 80,000+ drivers nationally, with Tennessee 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 Nashville?

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 Nashville 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 Tennessee, including training programs in Nashville 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 Tennessee

📋

Guide

CDL Schools in Nashville, TN

Quick Stats

Quick Facts: CDL Training in Nashville, TN

How should students compare CDL schools in Nashville, TN?

72 CDL Schools Near Nashville

CDL Training Market in Nashville, TN (2026 Report)

Market Snapshot

Top Picks in Nashville

Safe Smart CDL Training

DONNELL BUS SERVICE LLC

Eclipse DOT

Safe Smart CDL Training

DONNELL BUS SERVICE LLC

Eclipse DOT

ELDT Solutions - On Site CDL Training

Brian Tackett - Independent Instructor

Southeast Transportation Safety, LLC

DICKSON COUNTY SCHOOLS

ELDT Academy, LLC - Travelling CDL Instructors

Go 2 You ELDT

CDL Training and Testing Center

Elvira's Trucking Academy

The academy

Sallie Brown DBA Sallie Brown

1st Premier Trucking Academy

Morgan Transportation

My Mobile Training Solutions LLC

Glenn Lipford

5star C.D.L. Training Corp

Browning Mountain Training

TRCC Transport INC.

CDL Training in Nashville, Tennessee

Why Get CDL Training Near Nashville?

CDL Training Costs in Tennessee

Trucking Jobs Near Nashville

Compare CDL Schools in Nashville

Tuition Costs in Nashville

Nearby Cities

Need Help Choosing?

More in Tennessee

DOT Physicals Near Nashville

Concentra Urgent Care

Concentra Urgent Care

MedPro Occupational Health - South Nashville

CDL Testing & Driver Services in Nashville

Frequently Asked Questions About CDL Training in Nashville

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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