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Getting a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) is one of the first steps to starting a professional truck driving career. You’re probably wondering, “How long does it take to get a CDL?”
At Schneider, we’re committed to helping new and returning drivers start their careers off right. That’s why we offer a selection of company-paid CDL training options, including CDL Apprenticeship Training and tuition reimbursement for qualified drivers.
To help you get a better idea of how long it takes to get a CDL, we’ve created a breakdown that will walk you through some of the factors that impact this process.
How long does it take to get a CDL?
Obtaining a CDL can take as little as three weeks or as long as six months. But, on average, it takes about seven weeks to get a CDL when attending a full-time driver training program.
This training timeline varies due to the factors listed below.
5 factors that affect how long it takes to get a CDL
1. The type of CDL you get.
There are three classifications of CDLs to choose from:
Each of these CDL classifications allows you to drive trucks of varying weight ratings and with different hazardous classifications. Because of this, they all have different training requirements. In general, Class A CDLs take longer to get, while Class B and C CDLs have shorter training periods.
If you are interested in becoming a professional truck driver, you’ll need to choose between getting a Class A, Class B or Class C CDL.
2. The endorsements you add to your CDL.
There are six endorsements that can be added to a CDL. These endorsements require extra training and will add time to the process of obtaining a CDL.
Endorsements include:
While having endorsements is not required for many driving jobs, it does open opportunities to choose from a wider variety of specialized driving jobs and the potential to earn a higher salary.
3. If you attend a full-time versus a part-time training program.
To get your CDL, you’ll have to complete an official training program. CDL training programs are usually held at trucking schools or community colleges. But exactly how long is CDL school?
Courses typically come in two different schedules:
Part-time programs
Part-time programs usually consist of Saturday and Sunday classes and vary in how long they last. Part-time CDL training is great for people who work full-time or don’t have the flexibility to attend class five days a week.
Full-time programs
Full-time programs usually run five days a week (often Monday through Friday) for about five weeks. If you’re wondering how to get a CDL quickly, a full-time CDL training program is the way to go.
As an example, Schneider’s paid CDL training program lasts five to seven-and-a-half weeks. This course, held at Schneider facilities, gives new drivers the knowledge and skills they need to become a driver.
4. How much time you spend in the classroom versus in the yard/out on the road.
The amount of time you spend in the classroom while getting a CDL will vary based on the program you enroll in. Typically, students in CDL training programs spend about one-third of their time in the classroom and the rest in the yard or on the road.
Before choosing a program, consider your learning preferences:
Once you determine which learning style would be best for you, do some research on truck driving schools to figure out which would be the best fit for you.
5. How quickly you can schedule your CDL test.
Once you’ve started your CDL training, you’ll probably be excited to schedule your CDL test so you can become a professional driver right after graduation. However, many states require drivers who have just obtained their Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) to wait at least 14 days before they can take their CDL test.
Drivers usually schedule their CDL test through their local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). Each state has its own timeline for CDL testing, with most requiring that the test be scheduled 48 hours in advance. Make sure to check your local DMV’s website to find the necessary steps for scheduling and completing your test.
