If you’re thinking about becoming a truck driver, earning a Class A Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) can offer you a straightforward path to a wide range of job options within the transportation industry.
The trucking industry continues to rely on drivers to keep freight moving nationwide, and employment for commercial drivers remains steady across the U.S.1 According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) in 2024, heavy tractor-trailer truck drivers earned a median annual income of $57,440, with a projected four percent employment growth through 2034.1 For career changers and new professionals alike, a Class A CDL can offer a practical, skills-based way to step into a career without spending years in school.
This guide breaks down Class A CDL training, from meeting eligibility requirements to understanding training options, costs, and career outcomes. Whether you want local work, regional routes, or over-the-road opportunities, Class A training can provide you with the foundation to choose the direction that fits your goals.
Key Takeaways
- A Class A CDL gives broad job options in trucking, including OTR, regional, local, and specialized freight roles.
- Training covers ELDT theory, hands-on yard skills, and supervised road driving to build safety and confidence.
- Requirements include meeting age rules, completing a DOT physical, and earning a Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP).
- Class A training programs vary in length and structure, from short private programs to more extended community college options.
- Costs differ by provider, but students can offset expenses through reimbursement, federal funding, or military education benefits.
Why Class A Is the Gold Standard in Trucking
Earning a Class A CDL is sometimes considered the gold standard in trucking because it is the most comprehensive license in the transportation industry—opening up many different career pathways for you to explore. With a Class A CDL, you can operate tractor-trailers, combination vehicles, tankers, and other heavy rigs that keep supply chains moving across the United States. The Class A license is what nearly all regional carriers require to pursue a truck driving role. Plus, the credential will support you if you want to switch between local delivery, over-the-road (OTR) routes, or specialized freight later in your career.
Class A licenses allow you to operate vehicles with a Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR) of 26,001 pounds or more when towing over 10,000 pounds, according to Schneider as of November 2025.2 This broader GCWR capacity is one reason Class A holders might have more options than Class B drivers. Class A drivers are also eligible to pursue additional endorsements—such as Tanker (N), Doubles/Triples (T), and Hazardous Materials (H)—which expand the types of freight and equipment they can legally operate.
Class A CDL training is designed to take entry-level drivers and prepare them to handle large commercial vehicles safely, confidently, and according to federal regulations. Training includes a mix of classroom coursework in theory, yard practice, maneuver training, and supervised road time.
Eligibility and Requirements for Class A CDL
Before you can enroll in a Class A truck driver training program, you’ll need to meet federal and state requirements. At the most basic level, drivers must be old enough, physically qualified, and able to pass background and drug screenings. While each state handles licensing slightly differently, the core requirements are the same across the country.
Intrastate drivers (within a single state) will be required to follow state-specific rules, while interstate drivers must follow federal standards. This difference explains why drivers can operate commercially at age 18 within their state but must be 21 to cross state lines.
You must also complete a Department of Transportation (DOT) medical exam to confirm that you’re physically able to operate a commercial vehicle. A licensed medical examiner will review your vision, hearing, cardiovascular health, and other factors—according to Concentra as of November 2025.3 In addition, all new drivers are required to undergo drug and alcohol testing before beginning safety-sensitive duties, and they must remain in good standing with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA)Drug & Alcohol Clearinghouse.4
Another key requirement is completing Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT).5 ELDT is comprised of both online or classroom theory instruction and behind-the-wheel (BTW) training. This federal rule ensures every new commercial driver receives standardized training that covers safety, compliance, and essential driving skills.
Before you can complete your Class A CDL training, you’ll need to apply for your Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP). You don’t necessarily need your CLP to enroll in CDL training; however, you will need it to complete the skills test section of your CDL training.6
What’s Included in Class A CDL Training
A commercial Class A license school provides you with the hands-on skills and safety knowledge needed to confidently operate larger vehicles. Training blends classroom instruction with behind-the-wheel (BTW) practice, giving you the time to learn how to manage and maneuver a large, heavy vehicle safely.
According to the FMCSA ELDT training manual from February 2022, Class A CDL theory instruction includes:7
Basic Operation
- Control systems/dashboard
- Pre- and post-trip inspections
- Basic control
- Shifting/operating transmissions
- Backing and docking
- Coupling and uncoupling
Safe Operating Procedures
- Visual search
- Communication
- Distracted driving
- Speed management
- Space management
- Night operation
- Extreme driving conditions
Advanced Operating Practices
- Hazard perception
- Skid control/recovery, jackknifing, and other emergencies
- Railroad-highway grade crossings
Vehicle Systems and Reporting Malfunctions
- Identification and diagnosis of malfunctions
- Roadside inspections
- Maintenance
Non-Driving Activities
- Handling and documenting cargo
- Environmental compliance issues
- Hours of service requirements
- Fatigue and wellness awareness
- Post-crash procedures
- External communications
- Whistleblower/coercion
- Trip planning
- Drugs/alcohol
- Medical requirements
According to the FMCSA ELDT training manual from February 2022, Class A CDL BTW instruction includes both range and public road hours:7
Range
- Vehicle inspection pre-trip/ enroute/post-trip
- Straight line backing
- Alley dock backing (45/90 degree)
- Off-set backing
- Parallel parking blind side
- Parallel parking sight side
- Coupling and uncoupling
Public Road
- Vehicle controls including: Left turns, right turns, lane changes, curves at highway speeds, and entry and exit on the interstate or controlled access highway
- Shifting/transmission
- Communications/signaling
- Visual search
- Speed and space management
- Safe driver behavior
- Hours of Service (HOS) requirements
- Hazard perception
- Railroad (RR)-highway grade crossing
- Night operation
- Extreme driving conditions
- Skid control/recovery, jackknifing, and other emergencies
Types of Class A Training Programs
Class A CDL training is available through private schools, employer-sponsored programs, and community colleges.
Community College
You can find CDL training for both Class A and Class B CDLs at community colleges. It could be a good option if you’re looking at using financial aid to fund your studies. These programs typically maintain relationships with local transit agencies, municipal employers, and regional delivery companies. You may receive job placement services after you graduate. However, if you’re relying on either one of these for support, you’ll need to check to see if the program can fulfill those needs before applying. You should also consider your ideal class schedule and how long you are willing to remain in the program for. Community colleges often follow traditional semester calendars, so it’s worth considering what length of time you can realistically dedicate to training.
Private Truck Driving School
Private CDL Truck Driving schools may be a preferred option for you if you want to graduate within a shorter timeframe. According to Driver Resource Center as of November 2025, “it takes around 3-4 weeks to complete your CDL training if you’re attending classes full-time.”8 Granted, that’s for their specific CDL program—however, this is a common timeframe for many private truck driving schools, as they don’t rely on a college semester calendar to provide training times and dates.
Employer-Sponsored Programs
If you’re looking for guaranteed job placement—or just a low-cost training program—employee-sponsored courses can be a great way to get started in your trucking career. Major trucking companies, like Schneider, may sponsor students by covering the cost of tuition in exchange for a work commitment.9 This structure reduces upfront costs and ensures you have a job lined up after earning your license. Some carriers reimburse tuition for students who attend outside or private schools, allowing them to recover costs once they start working.
Cost of Class A CDL Training
The cost of Class A CDL training can differ based on the type of school you choose, how long the program runs, your location, and whether you qualify for employer-sponsored options. Roehl Transport notes that CDL programs in 2024 generally cost “$3,000 to $10,000 or more.”10
In addition to tuition, you should budget for additional training costs like CLP application, test fees, skills exam fees, the required DOT medical exam, and any endorsement fees if you decide to add passenger or school bus credentials.
Depending on where you train, financial support may be available. Eligible students may be able to use Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) funding or GI Bill benefits to help offset costs.11 You also may find that the community college you’re looking at accepts payment plans or local grants to help you with tuition costs.
Career Outcomes With a Class A CDL
Class A CDL training can open the door to a variety of professional transportation opportunities. According to Ohio Business College, as of 2023, a couple of these jobs include long-haul truck driver and construction equipment operator.12 Other Class A CDL jobs are those that also require the use of semi-trucks.
Long-Haul Truck Driver
A long-haul truck driver, or over-the-road (OTR) truck driver, is a transportation professional who transports goods and materials across long distances. They are typically on the road for weeks at a time, sleeping in the truck’s sleeper cab. If you’re interested in a long-haul position, you’ll have the opportunity to see new parts of the country you wouldn’t otherwise. If you’re looking for a short-haul trucking job, you’ll be able to stay within the general area of your home. According to BLS data, heavy tractor-trailer truck drivers earned a median annual income of $57,440 in 2024.1
Construction Equipment Operators
These trucking professionals work within the construction industry, transporting supplies, dirt, concrete, and other heavy materials to and from construction sites—as well as operating heavy machinery used to build bridges, roads, and other large structures. According to the BLS in 2024, “They operate equipment that clears and grades land to prepare it for the construction of roads, bridges, buildings, aircraft runways, dams, and other structures.”13 If you’re wondering what this type of truck driving role earns, the median annual wage in 2024 was $58,320—according to the BLS.14
Livestock Truck Driver
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A livestock truck driver is exactly what it sounds like. These professionals are tasked with hauling animals—often cattle, pigs, horses, and more—across short and long distances using a ventilated trailer. Not only are they responsible for the transportation, but they’re also in charge of maintaining the animals’ health and safety. If you like being around animals, this might be a great role for you.
Next Steps
A Class A CDL can give you flexible, long-term opportunities in the trucking industry. With the right training program, you’ll build the skills needed to handle combination vehicles safely and confidently. Whether you choose a fast-track program, a community college, or a paid training option, the next steps are: choose a school, apply for your CLP, and begin the process of becoming a professional truck driver.
Class A CDL Training FAQs
Do I need manual training to get hired?
No, you do not need manual training to get hired—but it may help. Many fleets operate automatic trucks, so an automatic-only CDL does not prevent you from entering the industry. However, learning to drive a manual may open up job opportunities down the line.
Is Class A harder than Class B?
Not necessarily. Class A CDL training does typically last longer than Class B training, and Class A curriculum covers more complex vehicles. That said, with the right training and enough practice, who’s to say you couldn’t succeed just as well?
How long does training take?
Most Class A CDL programs take between a month and several months to complete, depending on whether you choose an accelerated private school, a community college course, or paid carrier training.
Sources:
2 https://schneiderjobs.com/blog/cdl-license-classifications
3 https://www.concentra.com/resource-center/articles/what-does-a-dot-physical-consist-of/
4 https://clearinghouse.fmcsa.dot.gov/
5 https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/registration/commercial-drivers-license/entry-level-driver-training-eldt
7 https://tpr.fmcsa.dot.gov/content/Resources/ELDT-Curriculum-Summary.pdf
8 https://driverresourcecenter.com/how-long-does-it-take-to-get-a-cdl/
9 https://schneiderjobs.com/truck-driving-jobs/inexperienced/paid-cdl-training
10 https://www.roehl.jobs/blog/2024/cdl-training-cost
11 https://www.dol.gov/agencies/eta/wioa
12 https://obc.edu/what-jobs-opportunities-are-available-with-a-class-a-cdl/
13 https://www.bls.gov/ooh/construction-and-extraction/construction-equipment-operators.htm#tab-2
14 https://www.bls.gov/ooh/construction-and-extraction/construction-equipment-operators.htm#tab-1
