Montana's vast distances and extreme conditions create unique CDL training demands. Mining, agriculture, and oil transport. 10,000+ heavy truck drivers serve the state.
10,000+
CDL Drivers
$15B
Freight Value
2.5%
Growth Rate
4%
Hispanic Workforce
| City | Drivers | Growth | Industry Focus |
|---|---|---|---|
| Billings | 4,000+ | 3.0%/yr | Oil refining, agriculture |
| Great Falls | 2,000+ | 2.2%/yr | Military, agriculture |
| Missoula | 1,500+ | 2.5%/yr | Timber, distribution |
Average costs by metro area and program type
| Metro | Private School | Community College | Sponsored |
|---|---|---|---|
| Billings | $3,000-$7,000 | $1,500-$4,000 | Oil company programs |
| Great Falls | $2,500-$6,000 | $1,200-$3,500 | Military transition |
Montana Job Service provides WIOA funding for CDL training.
Montana veterans with VA-approved programs near Malmstrom AFB.
Administered by Montana Motor Vehicle Division (MVD)
Extreme winter driving on rural highways and mountain passes
Bakken oil field operations require hazmat and oversize training
Long-distance rural routes with limited services require special preparedness
Canada cross-border trade at multiple Montana entry points
10,000+ drivers. 2.5% annual growth. Zero upfront investment.
“Montana distances mean constant driver need. Oil and agriculture keep us busy. Revenue: $5,500/month.”
— Dan Cooper, Big Sky CDL
Compare DOT compliance requirements and training costs in states bordering Montana.
12,000+ drivers · 3.5% growth
North Dakota Department of Transportation (NDDOT)
10,000+ drivers · 2.5% growth
South Dakota Department of Public Safety
8,000+ drivers · 2.0% growth
Wyoming Department of Transportation (WYDOT)
15,000+ drivers · 4.8% growth
Idaho Transportation Department (ITD)