Get Paid While Training for CDL Near Me
Did you know you can start earning money before you even finish your CDL (Commercial Driver’s License) training? With the trucking industry's increasing demand for qualified drivers, many companies offer paid training programs that allow you to earn an income while gaining the skills you need to hit the road. If you’ve been wondering how to get paid while training for your CDL near you, keep reading to find out how this opportunity can jumpstart your career and help you avoid hefty upfront costs.
Why Get Paid to Train for Your CDL?
The trucking industry offers a fast track to a well-paying career, with the added bonus that some programs let you earn money while you complete your training. By taking advantage of paid CDL training programs, you can cover living expenses, avoid student debt, and get a jumpstart on your new career.
What Is Paid CDL Training?
Paid CDL training programs are designed to teach you the skills necessary to become a truck driver while allowing you to earn a wage. These programs typically combine classroom instruction with hands-on driving experience, preparing you to pass the CDL exam and begin your career immediately after graduation.
Paid training options generally fall into two categories:
• Company-Sponsored Programs: Many large trucking companies sponsor CDL training. They typically cover the cost of your training in exchange for a commitment to work with them for a set period, usually one to two years.
• Paid Apprenticeships: Some local driving schools and programs offer paid apprenticeships where you’re hired as an entry-level driver, earning a wage while you complete your CDL training.
How Much Can You Earn While Training for Your CDL?
If you’re thinking about how much money you can make while training, the numbers vary depending on the type of program and the company you work with. However, here's a general idea of what to expect:
Hourly Pay During Training
While you’re learning the ropes and gaining the required experience, many companies offer an hourly pay rate. On average, you can earn between $12 and $20 per hour while undergoing training, depending on the company, location, and the type of CDL you are pursuing.
Weekly Earnings
With a typical 40-hour workweek, you could be earning anywhere from $480 to $800 per week during your training. Keep in mind that some companies may offer bonus structures and incentives, which can boost your pay even further.
Annual Salary After Completing Training
Once you’ve completed your training and obtained your CDL, you’ll have the potential to earn significantly more. The average annual salary for a truck driver in the U.S. is $54,320, with the potential to earn more as you gain experience and take on longer routes or more specialized driving jobs.
Benefits of Paid CDL Training Near You
Apart from the obvious financial advantage of earning while you learn, paid CDL training offers several other significant benefits:
1. Zero Upfront Costs
One of the biggest concerns for aspiring truck drivers is the cost of CDL training. Traditional CDL programs can cost anywhere from $1,500 to $10,000, depending on the location and the type of training. With paid CDL training, you don’t have to worry about paying for these upfront costs, as the training is covered by the company or the apprenticeship program.
2. Job Security
The trucking industry is in high demand for drivers. With more than 70% of all freight in the U.S. transported by trucks, there is a consistent need for skilled drivers. By completing a paid CDL training program, you’re essentially guaranteeing yourself a job after finishing your training, especially if you commit to working with the company that sponsored your training.
3. Experience While Earning
Many trucking companies provide on-the-job experience during training. You’ll have the chance to drive actual trucks under supervision, giving you the hands-on experience that is crucial for becoming a safe and successful driver. This experience can help you transition smoothly into your first job after obtaining your CDL.
For instance, TMC Transportation offers a residential CDL training program that lasts three weeks, where trainees receive a $500 weekly stipend. After completing the training, you’ll begin on-the-road hands-on training with experienced drivers, ensuring that you gain the real-world experience needed to succeed.
4. Long-Term Career Opportunities
Once you obtain your CDL and have some experience under your belt, you have multiple career paths to choose from. Many drivers move into higher-paying roles, such as long-haul trucking, specialized freight, or owner-operator positions. The potential for career advancement in the trucking industry is substantial.
Finding Paid CDL Training Near You
Here’s how you can find paid CDL training programs in your neighborhood:
1. Local Trucking Companies
Many well-established trucking companies offer paid training programs. Some of the most reputable companies that provide paid CDL training include:
• Werner Enterprises: Known for its excellent training program, Werner offers paid CDL training and guarantees job placement upon completion.
• Swift Transportation: Offers company-sponsored CDL training with competitive pay during the learning process.
• CRST Expedited Services: Provides paid training and offers excellent benefits for new drivers.
• TMC Transportation: Offers training programs with a focus on flatbed trucking and pays trainees during their training period.
2. CDL Training Schools with Financial Support
Many CDL schools partner with trucking companies to offer sponsored training. Some schools also offer financing options, including the ability to work while you train.
• Roadmaster Drivers School: Partners with companies like Knight Transportation to offer job placement and paid training.
• United Truck Driving School: Offers a variety of financial assistance programs and works with companies to place you in paid training programs.
3. Online Research and Local Job Boards
Search local job boards such as Indeed, Glassdoor, or ZipRecruiter for paid CDL training programs. Many companies post job listings and paid training opportunities, making it easy for you to find a program near you.
Start Your Paid CDL Training Today!
Don’t miss the opportunity to start a rewarding career in trucking while getting paid to train! Paid CDL training is a fantastic way to break into a high-demand field without incurring the hefty costs of traditional education. Whether you're just starting out or looking for a career change, getting your CDL is a smart investment in your future.
Ready to start earning while you learn? Begin your search for paid CDL training near you today and take the first step toward a successful trucking career. The road to financial independence and job security is just around the corner—don’t wait any longer!
Sources:
• U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, "Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers,"(https://www.bls.gov/ooh/transportation-and-material-moving/heavy-and-tractor-trailer-truck-drivers.htm)
• Trucking Truth, "Paid CDL Training Programs," (https://www.truckingtruth.com/)
• Roadmaster Drivers School, "Get Paid While Training,"(https://www.roadmaster.com/)