North Dakota's Bakken oil field and agricultural economy create strong CDL demand despite the small population. 12,000+ heavy truck drivers serve the state.
12,000+
CDL Drivers
$18B
Freight Value
3.5%
Growth Rate
4%
Hispanic Workforce
| City | Drivers | Growth | Industry Focus |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fargo | 4,000+ | 3.0%/yr | Distribution, agriculture |
| Bismarck | 2,500+ | 2.5%/yr | State capital, energy |
| Williston | 3,000+ | 5.0%/yr | Bakken oil field operations |
Average costs by metro area and program type
| Metro | Private School | Community College | Sponsored |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fargo | $3,000-$7,000 | $1,500-$4,000 | $0 (2-yr contract) |
| Williston | $4,000-$9,000 | $2,000-$5,000 | Oil company programs |
Job Service North Dakota provides WIOA funding.
North Dakota veterans near Minot AFB and Grand Forks AFB.
State-funded training grants for high-demand fields.
Administered by North Dakota Department of Transportation (NDDOT)
Bakken oil field requires hazmat, tanker, and oversize load training
Extreme winter conditions — among the harshest in the continental US
Canada cross-border trade at multiple entry points
Agricultural transport with seasonal overweight permits during harvest
12,000+ drivers. 3.5% annual growth. Zero upfront investment.
“Bakken oil keeps demand strong. Winter driving skills are essential. Revenue: $8,000/month.”
— Chris Anderson, Roughrider CDL
Compare DOT compliance requirements and training costs in states bordering North Dakota.