Are you dreaming about getting paid to cruise the open road? The trucking industry can offer an exciting career path that allows you to journey along the country’s main corridors and thoroughways while transporting goods to your fellow Americans.
Maybe you’re pursuing a career in trucking because of the practical benefits: good pay, flexible hours, and no degree requirements. Or, perhaps those are just bonuses that come with a career that supports a life of travel and autonomy.
Whatever your reason for wanting to become a truck driver, Indiana is a great place to explore commercial driver’s license (CDL) training and get your CDL license. According to Indiana’s economic development corporation, the state moves an average of $650 billion worth of goods each year.1 This includes domestic transportation from railroads, airways, ports, and pass-through highways—solidifying the continued need for truck drivers in Indiana and throughout the nation.
In this guide, we’ll break down what you need to know—from training costs and licensing steps to the CDL programs and job opportunities across the state. By the end, you’ll have the knowledge you’ll need to get behind the wheel for a new career in trucking.
Key Takeaways
- Indiana’s trucking industry offers strong job stability and competitive pay for truck drivers.2
- Most CDL training programs in Indiana last four to eight weeks.
- Students can choose between private, public, or company-sponsored CDL programs based on budget and career goals.
- The Indiana BMV requires ELDT-compliant training, a commercial learner’s permit, and a skills test for CDL licensing.
- Workforce Ready Grants, WIOA funding, and employer reimbursement programs can make training affordable or even free.
- Graduates can pursue local, regional, or long-haul trucking jobs across Indiana’s major logistics hubs.
How to Choose the Right CDL School in Indiana
Choosing the right CDL school in Indiana depends on your career goals, budget, and preferred training schedule. You can compare CDL training providers using the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) Training Provider Registry database.3
Private vs. Carrier-Sponsored Training
There are pros and cons to both private training and employer-sponsored CDL training. Private CDL schools offer more flexibility in choosing an employer to work for after graduation, however, they often require tuition upfront. Carrier-sponsored programs cover most or all training costs in exchange for employment commitment after graduation—note that this can be a one-year commitment or longer.
Schedule and Accessibility
If you’re working full-time, you may prefer programs that offer a more flexible schedule, with evening or weekend classes. For those who can train full-time, four-week programs can get you licensed and earning a salary in less time.
Equipment and Facilities
Talk to a faculty member or recent graduate about the equipment you’ll be training on before enrolling. Look for newer, well-maintained vehicles that reflect current industry standards, including both manual and automatic transmissions.
Job Placement and Career Support
Some schools hold partnerships with regional and national carriers. Before enrolling, you’ll want to talk to someone about placement rates and local or national hiring partners. Many Indiana schools have long-standing hiring relationships that can lead to a job post-graduation.
Financial Flexibility
Before committing to a school, compare each school’s financing options—some allow installment plans, or deferred payments until employment begins. Some accept the GI Bill or other grants and scholarships as well. If financial support is necessary for you to complete your schooling, do some research and ask all the questions you can about tuition assistance programs and payment plan options.
Indiana CDL Licensing Requirements
To earn your CDL license in Indiana, you must meet the Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV)’s training, testing, and medical requirements set by the FMCSA and BMV.4
Step 1: Obtain a Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP)
You must first hold a valid Indiana driver’s license and pass knowledge tests covering general CDL information, air brakes, and combination vehicles. The BMV also requires you to provide proof of identity, residency, and U.S. citizenship (or lawful status).
Step 2: Complete Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT)
Federal law requires all new CDL applicants to complete ELDT through an FMCSA-registered training provider. This includes theory (classroom or online) and behind-the-wheel instruction on both range and public roads.
Step 3: Pass the Skills Test
Once you complete training and hold your Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) for at least 14 days, you can schedule a skills test.5 This test includes a pre-trip inspection, basic control maneuvers (backing, turning, parking), and a road test administered by a BMV-certified examiner.
Step 4: Watch Instructional Video
As of 20223, all first-time truck drivers must watch an instructional video from Truckers Against Trafficking (TAT) on how to recognize, prevent, and report human trafficking. According to the BMV website as of November 2025, you can access this video for free on the TAT website.5
Step 5: Submit a DOT Medical Card
In the state of Indiana, all CDL drivers must have a valid Department of Transportation (DOT)Medical Examination Report (MER) and Medical Examiner’s Certificate (MEC) issued by a certified examiner.5
Step 5: Add Endorsements (Optional)
You can take additional tests to earn endorsements for specific vehicle types or cargo, including:
- N: Tank vehicles
- H: Hazardous materials
- X: Tank + Hazmat combination
- T: Doubles/triples
- P: Passenger vehicles
Step 6: Maintain a Clean Record
Indiana CDL holders are subject to federal and state safety regulations. Serious traffic violations, DUIs, or out-of-service orders can result in CDL suspension or permanent disqualification.
Renewal Requirements
Indiana CDLs are valid for four years.6
Explore Indiana’s CDL Training Programs
Indiana offers a wide range of ELDT-compliant CDL schools that combine practical skills in hands-on driving and job placement support.
Truck Driver Institute – Multiple Locations
With locations in Indianapolis and South Bend, Truck Driver Institute (TDI) offers a three-week Class A CDL program. Training combines classroom instruction with extensive behind-the-wheel experience on full-size tractor-trailers. TDI partners with more than 20 national carriers, giving students access to pre-hire opportunities before they even graduate. While tuition details aren’t listed publicly, the school notes that new students can begin with an initial payment starting around $225. Students can qualify for financial assistance through WIOA funding, the GI Bill®, grants, or carrier-sponsored tuition reimbursement programs.
Sage Truck Driving School – Fort Wayne
Sage Truck Driving School provides hands-on instruction in both Class A and Class B CDL programs. The full-time ELDT-compliant program runs about eight weeks long, with 150 hours of instruction—including 98 hours of class and lab, 52 hours of behind-the-wheel driving time and the CDL test. Students learn advanced shifting, coupling/uncoupling, and vehicle maintenance.
Ivy Tech Community College – Multiple Locations
Ivy Tech Community College offers a comprehensive Class A CDL training course in several cities, including Indianapolis. The four-week program combines classroom and range instruction—offered by licensed instructors through the Indiana BMV. Students may qualify for the Next Level Jobs program, covering the full cost of tuition for eligible residents.7 Graduates receive job placement assistance and may earn additional endorsements during training.
160 Driving Academy – Multiple Locations
160 Driving Academy operates multiple Indiana campuses, including Evansville and South Bend, and provides a mix of classroom, yard, and on-the-road training. Students can complete their CDL training in as little as four weeks. The school’s nationwide reputation and carrier partnerships give students access to tuition reimbursement and pre-hire opportunities. 160 Driving Academy offers its EDLT training for free upon Class B or Class A CDL enrollment.8
C1 Truck Driver Training – Multiple Locations
As of their website in November 2025, C1 is the largest truck driver training school in central Indiana.9 With a state-of-the-art facility, students are taught through classroom lectures and a paved, 12-acre driving range. Training tuition can range between $,4000-$,600, with several payment options for financial assistance—including tuition reimbursement and company-sponsored CDL training.
Vincennes University – Vincennes
Vincennes University provides an intensive ELDT for Class A training, blending classroom lectures with practical truck operation.10 The curriculum emphasizes vehicle inspection, advanced operating practices, shifting techniques, and real-world hauling scenarios. The program meets all federal ELDT requirements and offers endorsements for hazardous materials and tankers.
Summit Commercial Drivers Training – Fort Wayne
Summit provides both Class A and Class B CDL training in Fort Wayne, with some of the most flexible learning options in Indiana.11 Students can choose from one-week, two-week, and three-week CDL options—along with a fast-track program that can be completed in three days. Training includes classroom instruction with real, behind-the-wheel learning from experienced faculty. As of November 2025, tuition ranges from $2,900 to $4,995, with the option for flexible financing options that include payment plans, veteran benefit programs, and the WorkOne Workforce Ready Grant (WRG).11
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DriveCo CDL Learning Center – Multiple Locations
DriveCo has been serving the trucking industry since 1990. The learning center offers ELDT-compliant Class A CDL training with flexible learning options, including full-time, part-time, day, evening, and night classes.12 Students benefit from theory courses, hands-on truck instruction, and job assistance services. These services include helping students with job applications, job searching, resume feedback, interview prep, employer referrals, and more.
Midwest Truck Driving School – Online
Midwest Truck Driving School provides multiple online courses, including Class A CDL ELDT Online Theory Training at a low rate of $109.00, as of November 2025.13 This training is intended to prepare you for the air brake, combination vehicle, and general knowledge written tests at your local Indiana BMV. They also offer other a la carte training options, including Class B CDL theory training, HazMat (H) endorsement training, and more.
On The Move Trucking Academy – Indianapolis
On The Move Trucking Academy features both Class B and Class A CDL training programs for students to gain comprehensive training and start their career in trucking. The academy offers flexible learning options, with both day and evening classes; plus, their theory classes are delivered in an online format—perfect for students who need to complete coursework at their own pace. With program tuition assistance through local, state, and federal programs, as well as company-sponsored CDL training, the academy makes becoming a truck driver accessible to many.14
Cost and Financial Aid
Understanding CDL training costs in Indiana can help you choose the right program and maximize available funding options.
WIOA Funding
Job seekers or unemployed individuals can apply for federal Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) funding.15 Many Indiana schools are approved WIOA providers.
Indiana Workforce Ready Grant
Indiana residents may qualify for free CDL training under the Workforce Ready Grant, which covers tuition for high-demand jobs, including truck driving.16
GI Bill
Veterans may use GI Bill benefits toward CDL tuition and testing fees.17
Employer Sponsorship
You may be able to get your tuition fully covered by committing to a carrier (employer) for a minimum of 12 months upon completion of your program. Some programs that have dedicated partnerships with carriers will offer this option.
Indiana Trucking Outlook 2025 and Beyond
The truck driver employment outlook shows steady job growth through 2034, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics as of May 2024.18 Indiana ranks third in the U.S. for truck drivers, according to data from Zippia as of January 2025—with an average annual salary of $67,338 for truck drivers.19
This strong outlook and high average annual salary mean CDL graduates can look forward to consistent job demand, competitive entry-level pay, and opportunities across regional and national carriers upon training completion.
CDL Jobs in Indiana
CDL jobs in Indiana offer multiple route types and opportunities with regional and national carriers.
Route Options
- Local: Home daily, ideal for city delivery or short-haul freight.
- Regional: Travel across nearby states, home several times per week.
- OTR (Over-the-Road): Long-distance routes covering multiple regions, with higher earning potential.
CDL Training in Indiana FAQs
How long does it take to get a CDL in Indiana?
Most students complete CDL training in four to eight weeks, depending on whether they attend full-time or part-time.
Is paid CDL training available in Indiana?
Yes. Some schools offer paid or company-sponsored CDL programs where tuition is covered in exchange for a work commitment.
Do I need endorsements to start working?
No. A standard Class A CDL allows you to drive most tractor-trailers.
Sources:
1 https://iedc.in.gov/industries/logistics-and-transportation
2 https://www.thetruckersreport.com/truck-driver-salaries/-in-IN
3 https://tpr.fmcsa.dot.gov/search
8 160drivingacademy.com/register/
9 https://www.c1training.com/truck-driving-schools/c1-indianapolis
10 https://onlinecareertraining.vinu.edu/training-programs/entry-level-driver-eldt-class-a/
11 https://summitcdt.com/programs
12 https://www.driveco.org/training/class-a-cdl/
13 https://courses.midwesttruckdrivingschool.com/offers/GQzuRDeD/checkout
14 https://onthemovetruckingacademy.com/
15 https://www.dol.gov/agencies/eta/wioa
16 https://www.in.gov/che/state-financial-aid/state-financial-aid-by-program/workforce-ready-grant/
