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 8 verified training programs serving the Kelso, Washington area.

FMCSA VERIFIED 2025

CDL Schools in Kelso, WA

Are you looking for commercial driver training in Kelso?We have identified 8 FMCSA-verified programs serving the Kelso area (Pop: 12,464).

Quick Stats

8 Training Programs
ELDT Compliant
3-8 Week Programs
Pop: 12,464

Quick Facts: CDL Training in Kelso, WA

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
8

Local CDL training answer

How should students compare CDL schools in Kelso, WA?

Students comparing CDL schools in Kelso, WA 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 8 training programsserving the Kelso area and is intended to help students request information without exposing private school contact data publicly.

8 CDL Schools Near Kelso

Curl School Bus Service

Vernonia, OR
22 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified
+1 XXX-XXX-XXXX

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Washington Trucking School Chehalis

Chehalis, WA
35.8 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified
+1 XXX-XXX-XXXX

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iRoute Trucking Academy Of Oregon 0001

Portland, OR
39.6 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verifiedclass_a_theoryclass_a_behind_the_wheel_rangeclass_a_behind_the_wheel_public_roadclass_b_theory
+1 XXX-XXX-XXXX

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Centralia College

Centralia, WA
41.6 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified
+1 XXX-XXX-XXXX

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Centralia College

Morton, WA
42.6 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified
+1 XXX-XXX-XXXX

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Northwest School of Discipleship

Tigard, OR
49.5 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified
+1 XXX-XXX-XXXX

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Western CDL

Kelso, WA
In Kelso
+1 XXX-XXX-XXXX

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Kelso School District #458

Kelso, WA
In Kelso

CDL Training in Kelso, Washington

Kelso, Washington offers 8 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 Kelso?

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

CDL Training Costs in Washington

CDL training in Washington 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 Kelso

Get hired after you complete your CDL training

$45,000 - $75,000
Average annual salary for CDL drivers in Washington
2,500+
Open trucking positions in Washington

Top employers hiring near Kelso: 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 Kelso

Side-by-side comparison of top training programs

⚙️ Transmission:
Showing 8 schools
School Name
City
Program TypesKey FeaturesContact
Centralia College
FMCSA Verified
Centralia
Class AClass BHazmat
Manual Trans.Weekend Classes
Centralia College
FMCSA Verified
Morton
Class AClass B
Manual Trans.Evening Classes
Vernonia
Class AClass BHazmat
Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesEvening ClassesVA Approved
Portland
Class ATanker
Manual Trans.VA Approved
Kelso School District #458
FMCSA Verified
Class AClass BTanker
Manual Trans.Evening Classes
Tigard
Class ATanker
Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesEvening ClassesVA Approved
Chehalis
Class AClass B
Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesEvening Classes
Western CDL
FMCSA Verified
Class AClass B
Manual Trans.

Tuition Costs in Kelso

Avg. Private School
$6,800
Avg. Public School
$4,000
Price Range
$3,500 - $8,200

Seattle area is expensive, eastern WA more affordable.

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 Kelso

Required for your CDL medical card

Kaiser Permanente Longview-Kelso Medical Office

1230 7th Ave, Longview
4.5

PeaceHealth Longview Therapy and Wellness Center

200 Triangle Shopping Center #270, Longview
4

Performance Occupational Health Services

1516 Hudson St #201, Longview
3.9

💡 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 & DOL in Kelso

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

Find DOL Office

Frequently Asked Questions About CDL Training in Kelso

How long does CDL training take in Kelso?
CDL training programs in Kelso, WA 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 Washington?
CDL training costs in Washington 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 Kelso without quitting my job?
Yes, several CDL schools in the Kelso 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 Kelso 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 Washington?
Yes, several funding options exist for CDL training in Washington: 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 Kelso?
The CDL driver job outlook near Kelso, WA is strong. The American Trucking Associations reports a shortage of 80,000+ drivers nationally, with Washington 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 Kelso?
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 Kelso CDL schools offer both options. If unsure, get the Class A, it qualifies you for Class B jobs too.