Truck drivers play an essential role in the transportation industry, and many companies offer CDL training at truck driving schools to potential employees. Another path to earning your CDL is paying for your CDL training yourself. However, this can make it more difficult to become a truck driver due to the expense. As such, many new truck drivers take advantage of the benefits of company-sponsored CDL training and truck driving school programs.
Who Qualifies for CDL Training?
To qualify for company-sponsored CDL training, applicants must:
- Possess a valid driver's license
- Be at least 21 years old (some programs may allow 18-year-olds for intrastate driving)
- Have a clean driving record
- Pass an initial drug test
- Undergo a medical examination to ensure they meet the physical and mental requirements for driving a commercial vehicle
- Some programs may require applicants to pass a written knowledge test
How Do I Find Companies with Paid CDL Training Programs?
You will want to contact the bigger trucking companies and inquire about their company-sponsored CDL training opportunities. Most major trucking companies have some type of program. However, it is imperative to compare your options between trucking companies by reviewing the terms and conditions of the program before signing any agreements.
Their recruiters will want to encourage you to take advantage of their truck driver training programs. Sometimes, they can be very persuasive. However, you need to ensure you do not sign any agreements until you have time to consider their offer. Simply let them know that you appreciate their offer and you would like a little time to consider it.
Why Do I Need to Compare Paid CDL School Training Programs?
Some trucking companies may offer better perks than others. So you will want to ensure you are getting the best “deal” that suits your needs and objectives before you sign an agreement with a trucking company. Once you find a program with the perks you like, then you can proceed with signing the agreement and starting your truck driver training.
Employer-Paid CDL Training vs. Independent Trucking Schools
When starting a career in truck driving, you have a few training options to consider. Independent trucking schools are one route, but working with companies with paid CDL training may be a better choice. Understanding the pros and cons of each option can help you choose the best path for your trucking career.
|
Feature |
Employer-Paid CDL Training |
Independent Trucking Schools |
|
Cost |
Covered by employer |
High upfront costs |
|
Job Security |
Guaranteed job after training |
No job guarantee |
|
Training Duration |
Expedited training, typically about a month |
Varies, usually longer |
|
Commitment |
Requires a commitment to work for the company |
No employer commitment required |
|
Training Quality |
Standardized training with company guidelines |
Varies, may depend on school quality |
|
Support and Resources |
Access to company resources and mentorship |
Limited to school-provided resources |
What Is Contained in the Agreement?
Agreements contain various terms and conditions you need to be aware of to fully understand the trucking company’s responsibilities and your responsibilities. Most agreements will require you to work for the trucking company after training is completed for a specific period, such as two years.
In addition, these agreements can include details about low-interest loans to cover living expenses and related costs while completing truck driving school, if you need financial assistance. For instance, there may be a set amount deducted from your paycheck for the duration of your initial contract period.
Furthermore, the agreement can contain details about your starting payment rate during on-the-road training, after completing training, and performance review periods. As you can imagine, if you do not read the agreement carefully, you could be agreeing to something you may not like.
What Are Some Advantages of Company-Sponsored CDL Training?
When trucking companies pay for CDL training, there are a number of advantages for both businesses and employees, including:
- Reduced turnover rates
- Greater employee satisfaction
- Improved safety due to higher standards of driver education
- Development of career advancement opportunities
- Additional certification programs
- More certified drivers (training is a natural solution to the driver shortage!)
Cost-Effectiveness
Another one of the primary benefits of company-sponsored training is it is the least expensive path to getting your CDL and becoming a professional truck driver. Many company-sponsored programs also have a guarantee of a job after you complete the program. Not only do you get the required training and your CDL license, but you also have a truck driving job waiting for you.
If you decide to go cover all the costs of truck driving school yourself, you may be able to get help from your employer. Some companies offer tuition reimbursement upon successful completion of truck driver school and obtaining your commercial driver’s license.
Other Benefits for Employees
Additional benefits of participating in trucking company-sponsored CDL training program include:
-
No Student Loans
You won’t need to take out student loans or worry about the costs of truck driving school since the company you sign with will cover these costs, which can run several thousands of dollars. However, if you need financial assistance for living expenses, you may still require a small student loan. Yet, most trucking companies have low-interest loans with deferred payments.
-
Professional Training
You receive CDL training from a professional truck driving school and instructors. They will ensure you are taught everything you need to know to drive a big rig safely. You will have classroom instruction combined with on-the-road driving instruction from a qualified driver trainer.
-
Faster Training
A company-sponsored training program can get you on the road much faster than doing it on your own. Programs typically run about a month. Once you finish the program, you take your CDL test and obtain your CDL license. Then you start your on-the-road training with the trucking company.
-
Guaranteed Job
You will have a guaranteed job waiting for you once you complete truck driving school and on-the-road training. This is probably one of the biggest perks of getting a company sponsored CDL. You will not have to wait weeks or even months to secure a trucking job.
-
Test and License Costs Covered
The company may cover the costs of your CDL test and CDL license. Some companies may pay for your CDL test and license or reimburse you the costs once you start your on-the-road training and employment.
What to Expect From Employer-Paid CDL Training Programs
Paid CDL training programs offer an attractive pathway to starting your truck driving career with minimal upfront costs. Here’s what you can expect from these programs.
-
Comprehensive Training
Paid CDL training programs include classroom instruction on safety, regulations, and vehicle operation, hands-on driving practice with experienced instructors, and preparation for the CDL exam.
-
Financial Assistance
These programs cover the cost of training, reducing immediate financial burden, but often require a commitment to work for the sponsoring company for a specified period and may involve payroll deductions if you leave early.
-
Job Security
A significant advantage is the guaranteed job upon completion, helping new drivers start their careers without the stress of job hunting.
-
Support and Resources
During training, you will have access to mentorship from experienced drivers, assistance with obtaining necessary endorsements, and logistical support such as housing and transportation if needed.
-
Career Advancement
Many programs offer opportunities for career growth, including advanced training and certifications, increased pay rates, and the chance to move into specialized driving roles or management positions.
What’s the Catch?
It is understandable that you want to know what the “catch” is with paid CDL training. The thing to remember is that the majority of company-sponsored CDL training programs are not free. While the trucking company pays for the costs upfront on your behalf, they will want some sort of reimbursement in return.
The type of reimbursement they seek will depend on the company and program. For example:
- Some companies may cover the costs upfront but then make regular payroll deductions for the costs of training until it is paid in full. The deductions normally are consistent with your initial contract period as detailed in your signed agreement.
- Other companies may make payroll deductions to cover the cost of your training. However, if you remain with the company longer than the required time, they will reward you by returning all of the money it cost to complete your training.
- Then there are other trucking companies that will cover all the costs for your training. In exchange, there is no payroll deduction. Yet, they will require you to agree to work for them for a set period that could range from two to five years. If you quit, you will be required to pay back all the money for your training.
- You will even find trucking companies that provide “free” training and cover all the costs. However, your tradeoff is starting a lower wage for several years. Again, this would be detailed in your signed agreement. Yet, once you get past this period, your wage should be increased accordingly.
Is Company-Sponsored CDL Training for Me?
If you want to get on the road as soon as possible with the least out-of-pocket expenses, a company-sponsored CDL training program may be a good choice. However, it’s essential to consider the pros and cons of participating in such programs before signing any agreements. Once you have contacted potential employers and reviewed their agreements, you can decide if it would be better to take advantage of their program or pay for your truck driving training yourself.
Make the Most of Your New Career
Once you are on the road on your own, make sure you set up your truck so you are comfortable, with custom truck seats, truck mattresses, truck accessories, and other essential items. To find everything you need for your truck, shop online at Suburban Seating & Safety or contact us at 844-727-7328 today. We are the leading replacement seating providers for the trucking industry.
