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.

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 Chesapeake, VA?

CDL training in Chesapeake, VA 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 Chesapeake?

Most CDL training programs in Chesapeake 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 Chesapeake, VA?

Yes, several CDL schools in the Chesapeake 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 Chesapeake 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 43 verified training programs serving the Chesapeake, Virginia area.

FMCSA VERIFIED 2025

CDL Schools in Chesapeake, VA

Are you looking for commercial driver training in Chesapeake?We have identified 43 FMCSA-verified programs serving the Chesapeake area (Pop: 249,422).

Quick Stats

43 Training Programs

ELDT Compliant

3-8 Week Programs

Pop: 249,422

Quick Facts: CDL Training in Chesapeake, VA

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

43 CDL Schools Near Chesapeake

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Top Picks in Chesapeake

Editor's Choice

#1 Editor's ChoiceVerified

IWCS Transportation

Windsor, VA

Call Now

#2 Editor's ChoiceVerified

Poquoson City Public Schools

Poquoson, VA

Call Now

#3 Editor's ChoiceVerified

Hayes, VA

37.3 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Virginia Department of Transportation (Franklin AHQ)

Courtland, VA

39.5 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Wakefield, VA - NPGA

Wakefield, VA

39.8 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Showing 20 of 31 schools

CDL Training in Chesapeake, Virginia

<div class="space-y-4"> Chesapeake, VA offers 43 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 VA 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 Chesapeake 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 Chesapeake?

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

CDL Training Costs in Virginia

CDL training in Virginia 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 Virginia

Trucking Jobs Near Chesapeake

Get hired after you complete your CDL training

$45,000 - $75,000

Average annual salary for CDL drivers in Virginia

2,500+

Open trucking positions in Virginia

Top employers hiring near Chesapeake: 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 Chesapeake

Side-by-side comparison of top training programs

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⚙️ Transmission:

Showing 15 schools

School Name	City	Program Types	Key Features	Contact
Arc3 Gases Elizabeth City FMCSA Verified	Elizabeth City	Class ATanker	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesEvening ClassesVA Approved	View Details
Bartlett Tree Experts Williamsburg VA FMCSA Verified	Williamsburg	Class A	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesVA Approved	View Details
Bay Transit FMCSA Verified	Gloucester	Class AClass BHazmat	Manual Trans.Weekend Classes	View Details
Camden Intermediate School FMCSA Verified	Camden	Class AClass BHazmatTanker	Manual Trans.Evening ClassesVA Approved	View Details
Coastal Beverage Company Inc. FMCSA Verified	Elizabeth City	Class A	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesEvening Classes	View Details
County of York FMCSA Verified	Yorktown	Class ATanker	Manual Trans.Evening Classes	View Details
Currituck Bus Garage FMCSA Verified	Currituck	Class AClass BTanker	Weekend ClassesEvening ClassesVA Approved	View Details
Elizabeth City - Coca-Cola Consolidated, Inc. FMCSA Verified	Elizabeth City	Class AClass B	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesEvening Classes	View Details
Franklin City Public Schools FMCSA Verified	Franklin	Class AClass BHazmat	Manual Trans.	View Details
Gatesville Elementary School FMCSA Verified	Gatesville	Class AClass B	Manual Trans.	View Details
Gloucester county public schools FMCSA Verified	Gloucester	Class AHazmat	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesEvening ClassesVA Approved	View Details
Hayes, VA - NPGA FMCSA Verified	Hayes	Class AClass BHazmatTanker	Manual Trans.VA Approved	View Details
IWCS Transportation FMCSA Verified	Windsor	Class ATanker	Weekend Classes	View Details
Mathews County Public Schools FMCSA Verified	Mathews	Class ATanker	Manual Trans.	View Details
Merchants Millpond State Park FMCSA Verified	Gatesville	Class A	Evening Classes	View Details

Tuition Costs in Chesapeake

Avg. Private School

$6,200

Avg. Public School

$4,000

Price Range

$3,400 - $7,800

Northern VA expensive, rest of state more affordable.

Nearby Cities

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DOT Physicals Near Chesapeake

Required for your CDL medical card

Concentra Urgent Care - Hampton

6000 Industrial Pkwy, Hampton

(571) 159-4108

3.9

$89-$129

Walmart Health Center - Chesapeake

3913 Main St, Chesapeake

(434) 394-1161

$106-$172

Walk-ins OK

Patient First - Central Chesapeake

6889 Main St, Chesapeake

(804) 488-8510

$61-$114

View All 31 Clinics in Chesapeake All Locations

💡 Pro Tip: Get your DOT physical before starting CDL training. The exam costs ${55-150} and is valid for up to 2 years.

CDL Testing & DMV in Chesapeake

1601 Sams Dr, Chesapeake, VA 23320

(804) 497-7100

Schedule your CDL knowledge and road tests at the Chesapeake DMV. CDL services

Visit Chesapeake CDL DMV

Frequently Asked Questions About CDL Training in Chesapeake

How long does CDL training take in Chesapeake?

CDL training programs in Chesapeake, VA 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 Virginia?

CDL training costs in Virginia 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 Chesapeake without quitting my job?

Yes, several CDL schools in the Chesapeake 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 Chesapeake 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 Virginia?

Yes, several funding options exist for CDL training in Virginia: 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 Chesapeake?

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

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 Chesapeake 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 Virginia, including training programs in Chesapeake 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 Virginia

📋

Guide

CDL Schools in Chesapeake, VA

Quick Stats

Quick Facts: CDL Training in Chesapeake, VA

43 CDL Schools Near Chesapeake

Top Picks in Chesapeake

IWCS Transportation

Poquoson City Public Schools

Shawboro Elementary School

IWCS Transportation

Poquoson City Public Schools

Shawboro Elementary School

Currituck Bus Garage

Semi Drivers Training

NCFS, District 7

Camden Intermediate School

York County Public Schools

Merchants Millpond State Park

Coastal Beverage Company Inc.

Northeastern High School

Pasquotank Elementary School

Pasquotank County Parks and Recreation

Arc3 Gases Elizabeth City

Bartlett Tree Experts Williamsburg VA

Gatesville Elementary School

Franklin City Public Schools

Hayes, VA - NPGA

Virginia Department of Transportation (Franklin AHQ)

Wakefield, VA - NPGA

CDL Training in Chesapeake, Virginia

Why Get CDL Training Near Chesapeake?

CDL Training Costs in Virginia

Trucking Jobs Near Chesapeake

Compare CDL Schools in Chesapeake

Tuition Costs in Chesapeake

Nearby Cities

Need Help Choosing?

More in Virginia

DOT Physicals Near Chesapeake

Concentra Urgent Care - Hampton

Walmart Health Center - Chesapeake

Patient First - Central Chesapeake

CDL Testing & DMV in Chesapeake

Frequently Asked Questions About CDL Training in Chesapeake

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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