How to Get a CDL Job: Training, Licenses and Hiring

Understand the federal training requirement

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration sets minimum training standards for entry-level drivers seeking certain commercial driver's licenses and endorsements. The rule, usually called entry-level driver training or ELDT, applies to first-time Class A and Class B applicants, among others, and generally requires training from a provider listed on FMCSA's Training Provider Registry.

Training must include both theory and behind-the-wheel instruction in the class of vehicle you plan to drive, and it must be completed before you take the skills test. Drivers who already held a qualifying CDL before the rule took effect are generally exempt. States may add requirements beyond the federal minimum, so check your state DMV for local rules.

The steps from application to first load

Start with your state's CDL requirements, which typically include a medical certification, a knowledge test for the general knowledge section and any endorsement tests you need. After you pass the written tests, complete the required training with a registered provider, then schedule the skills test on a vehicle that meets the state's requirements.

Once you have the license, carriers screen applicants through a motor vehicle record check, drug testing and a review of your driving history. Many carriers offer company-sponsored training for new drivers, which can be a route in if you cannot pay for a school up front. Read the agreement carefully, including the repayment schedule if you leave early.

• A valid driver's license and a clean recent driving record
• A DOT medical examination and certification
• Completion of federal entry-level driver training, where it applies
• Passing the state knowledge tests and the skills test

Choosing a training path and checking the carrier

Compare schools, community colleges and carrier-sponsored programs on the same basis. Ask about the total cost, the length of the course, the number of behind-the-wheel hours and the job placement rate, and ask the school to show you verifiable records. Check that the training provider is on FMCSA's registry before you enroll.

For carriers, check their safety record and their official registration information through the FMCSA's public tools. Ask recruiters for the company's legal name and its DOT number, and verify both independently. Be cautious with carriers that push you to sign quickly or that hide the terms of a training repayment agreement.

Where to find CDL openings

Carriers post CDL openings on their own career pages, on large boards such as Indeed and on hourly platforms. Search for terms like Class A driver, OTR driver, regional driver and new driver program. Compare the home time, the route type and whether the carrier offers training, since those details affect your life as much as the pay.

Ask each carrier about its new driver program, its equipment, its pay per mile or per hour and how often drivers are at home. A clear answer on these points is a good sign. Vague answers, or pressure to decide in one call, are not.

Avoid CDL training scams

Some operators charge large upfront fees and then fail to deliver the job or the training they promised. Others offer a guaranteed job for a fee, which is a red flag. Compare any offer with the official federal training registry, and do not sign a contract you do not understand.

Be cautious with recruiters who ask for a deposit to hold a seat, or who say that a carrier will hire you only if you pay for training through them. Verify the carrier and the training provider independently before you commit money or time.