Looking for classes in a specific city? Check out our lists of CDL Training in Alexandria, Arlington, Chesapeake, Hampton, Newport News, Norfolk, Richmond, Roanoke, and Virginia Beach.
Looking to kickstart your trucking career with the best CDL training in Virginia?
This article covers top CDL training programs across the state, providing an in-depth look at options ranging from CDS Tractor Trailer Training to 160 Driving Academy.
Whether you’re after comprehensive instruction, flexible schedules, or strong job placement rates, we’ve got you covered.
Find the perfect training to jumpstart your journey.
CDS Tractor Trailer Training – Class A CDL Training Program
Are you looking for a practical and thorough CDL training program in Virginia? Look no further than CDS Tractor Trailer Training. This program is designed for individuals aiming to earn their Class A CDL, enabling them to operate some of the largest commercial vehicles on the road.
Key Features:
- Balanced Curriculum: The training combines both classroom instruction and hands-on experiences. You’ll cover essential topics like General Knowledge, Air Brakes, and Hazardous Materials Endorsement.
- Flexible Scheduling: The program spans 20 days (160 hours) with an option for a 10-weekend part-time schedule.
- Multiple Locations: Training is available in Fredericksburg, Roanoke, and Richmond. Additionally, they offer a traveling training program at various community colleges across Virginia.
- Job Placement Assistance: Recruiters regularly visit classrooms, offering job placement opportunities directly to students.
This training program ensures you are well-equipped to pass your DMV written and skills tests and prepares you for a fruitful career in truck driving.
VWCC Workforce Solutions – CDL Training
Virginia Western Community College (VWCC) partners with CDS Tractor Trailer Training to offer an outstanding CDL training experience.
Key Features:
- Comprehensive Curriculum: The 20-day program provides a mix of classroom and practical training covering general knowledge, air brakes, combination vehicles, and hazardous materials. Optional endorsements like doubles/triples are also available.
- CDL Learner’s Permit Requirement: Students must hold a CDL learner’s permit before enrolling, ensuring they are ready for advanced training.
- Affordable Tuition: With an approximately $6,000 cost, the program is eligible for FastForward pricing, making it more accessible for Virginia residents.
- Career Opportunities: The program partners with recruiters to facilitate job placement for graduates.
This program is ideal for those looking to gain essential skills and knowledge while benefiting from industry connections and affordable pricing.
Shippers’ Choice – CDL Training Program
For those seeking a reliable CDL training program with an impressive track record, Shippers’ Choice offers a solid option.
Key Features:
- Extensive Experience: With over 30 years of experience, Shippers’ Choice provides a well-rounded training program.
- Efficient Training: The 20-day program includes one week of classroom instruction, followed by yard and on-road training.
- In-House DMV Testing: Their in-house DMV testing department facilitates a smoother, more integrated testing experience.
- High Job Placement Rate: With nearly a 100% job placement rate and over 100 hiring partners, graduates have excellent career prospects.
- Financial Assistance: Financial assistance options are available, with no collateral required for approval.
- Lifetime Support: Enjoy free lifetime refresher training and job placement assistance throughout your career.
Choosing Shippers’ Choice ensures you are trained by experts and supported long-term in your truck driving career.
CDS Tractor Trailer Training – Class B CDL Training
CDS Tractor Trailer Training also provides a program for individuals interested in earning a Class B CDL, perfect for those looking to operate straight trucks.
Key Features:
- Focused Curriculum: The 15-day (120 hours) program covers essential skills and standards set by the DMV.
- Flexible Training Options: Available as both full-time and part-time, allowing you to choose a schedule that fits your life.
- Hands-On Instruction: Small class sizes ensure ample hands-on experience, meeting your individual training needs.
- Career Pathways: Class B CDL opens doors to operating commercial vehicles like delivery trucks, school buses, and dump trucks.
This program is ideal for anyone looking to diversify their commercial driving skills with a Class B CDL.
Virginia Highlands Community College – CDL Truck Driving Program
For residents in southwest Virginia, Virginia Highlands Community College offers a comprehensive program to meet your CDL needs.
Key Features:
- Robust Curriculum: The 160-hour training covers both classroom instruction and on-the-road driving experiences.
- Earning Potential: Graduates can expect to earn up to $76,000 annually, making it a valuable investment.
- Affordable Tuition: The program is FastForward eligible, reducing tuition costs for qualifying Virginia residents to as low as $200 for those with financial aid.
- Flexible Training: Prepare for both local and cross-country driving positions.
VHCC’s targeted training equips you with the necessary skills and knowledge for a rewarding trucking career.
Virginia Peninsula Community College – CDL Training Program
Virginia Peninsula Community College offers a reputable CDL training program that includes strong student support and job placement assistance.
Key Features:
- Continuous Support: Committed to providing ongoing support throughout your training and career.
- Scholarship Opportunities: Various scholarships, such as the Dr. Rex Evans Scholarship, make it more accessible.
- Convenient Location: Situated at the Historic Triangle campus in Williamsburg with an easy online registration process.
- Flexible Tuition: Contact the college for specific details on tuition and potential financial aid options.
This program offers a supportive environment and numerous financial opportunities to ease the path to your CDL.
Southside Virginia Community College – Truck Driver Training School
Southside Virginia Community College presents a robust training opportunity for aspiring truck drivers.
Key Features:
- In-Depth Training: Comprehensive 240-hour program over six weeks, covering preventive maintenance, highway safety, and hazardous materials handling.
- Essential Requirements: Applicants need a valid Virginia Driver’s License, must pass a DOT physical exam and drug test, and hold a CDL-A learner’s permit.
- Affordable Tuition: In-state tuition is $2,000, with FastForward grant assistance available.
- Multiple Locations: Training is provided at Fort Pickett, South Boston, and Emporia.
Choose Southside Virginia Community College for an affordable and extensive training program, preparing you for safe and efficient truck driving.
Laurel Ridge Workforce Solutions – Commercial Truck Driver CDL-A Fast Track Training
When considering CDL Training in Virginia, the Laurel Ridge Workforce Solutions offers a standout program that is both efficient and thorough. Their CDL-A Fast Track Training program provides the necessary skills quickly and effectively.
Key Features:
- Comprehensive Curriculum: This 160-hour program adheres to the entry-level driver training rules, ensuring students receive complete training in classroom, range, and on-the-road scenarios.
- Focused Instruction: The training covers essential topics such as basic vehicle control, safe operating procedures, and space management.
- Job Placement Assistance: The program also includes job placement assistance to help you transition smoothly into the workforce.
- Affordable Tuition: FastForward pricing is available for qualified Virginia residents, significantly reducing tuition costs.
With a balanced approach to training and job placement assistance, Laurel Ridge Workforce Solutions ensures you are well-prepared for a successful trucking career.
Swift Academy – CDL Training Program
If you seek flexibility in scheduling, Swift Academy located in Richmond, VA, offers one of the more accommodating CDL training programs.
Key Features:
- Flexible Start Dates: Their full-time program has weekly start dates, making it easier for you to find a time that fits your schedule.
- Tuition Assistance: Various tuition assistance options and veteran scholarships are available to help reduce financial barriers.
- Diverse Training: Training includes both automatic and manual transmissions, ensuring you are versatile and well-prepared for any trucking job.
- Strong Reputation: As a leading trucking company, Swift Academy’s graduates benefit from enhanced job prospects due to the company’s strong industry reputation.
For those needing flexibility and robust training options, Swift Academy delivers a quality education and strong employment potential.
Eastern WV Community and Technical College – CDL Training Program
The CDL training program at Eastern WV Community and Technical College provides thorough preparation for the commercial trucking industry.
Key Features:
- Regulatory Compliance: Meets the 49 CFR 380 standards, ensuring adherence to federal training regulations.
- Extensive Curriculum: Combines theory with behind-the-wheel training for a comprehensive educational experience.
- Financial Support: Primed with a $6,000 program fee, it also includes the Roberts’ Workforce CDL Scholarship to assist with costs.
- Experienced Instructors: Benefit from instructors with extensive real-world driving experience.
This program equips you with the skills needed to meet industry standards and thrive as a commercial truck driver.
ATI Norfolk – CDL Training
Located in Norfolk, VA, ATI Norfolk offers an efficient six-week CDL training program designed to prepare you for operating combination vehicles.
Key Features:
- Focused Program Length: Six-weeks of intensive training, held Monday through Thursday, ensures you are ready quickly.
- Veteran Instructors: Experienced instructors provide a thorough understanding of both the theoretical and practical aspects of CDL training.
- Positive Learning Environment: Enhances the training process, making it both effective and enjoyable.
- Personalized Financial Information: For specific tuition costs and financial aid options, direct contact with ATI Norfolk is recommended.
ATI Norfolk is ideal for those seeking a supportive and intensive training environment.
160 Driving Academy – CDL Training Program
160 Driving Academy in Virginia Beach offers a rigorous training program designed for quick, high-quality CDL certification.
Key Features:
- Intensive Training Period: A four-week program that quickly prepares you for the CDL exam.
- Sponsored Training: Industry partnerships often allow for low-cost tuition, providing an affordable pathway to your CDL.
- Immediate Job Placement: On completion, job placement assistance helps transition directly into employment with high pay potential.
- Skill Development: Training includes classroom and practical experiences to cover safe driving practices and truck regulations.
If you aim to join the trucking industry swiftly, 160 Driving Academy offers the training and job placement assistance you need.
Choosing the Right CDL Training Program in Virginia
Selecting the right CDL training program can set the foundation for a successful trucking career. Here are some essential factors to consider:
- Accreditation: Ensure the program is accredited by the relevant authorities, which guarantees a standard of education and training.
- Costs: Look for programs that offer financial aid, scholarships, or payment plans. This can significantly reduce your initial investment.
- Program Length: Consider how quickly you want to start working. Programs vary from a few weeks to several months.
- Job Placement Rates: Opt for programs with high job placement rates. They likely have strong ties with industry employers.
- Flexible Scheduling: Some programs offer full-time, part-time, or weekend classes to accommodate your other commitments.
- Endorsements: Additional endorsements, like hazardous materials or air brakes, can make you more versatile and employable.
- Experienced Instructors: Quality of instruction can be a decisive factor. Choose programs where instructors have extensive industry experience.
Evaluate these points while choosing your CDL training program to ensure it meets your career aspirations and personal circumstances.
CDL Training By State
Conclusion
Embarking on a career in commercial truck driving begins with quality CDL training. Virginia offers numerous excellent programs to help you earn your CDL, each tailored to meet different needs and budgets. From the detailed curricula and job placement assistance at CDS Tractor Trailer Training to the flexible scheduling at Swift Academy, you have many options.
Choose a program that fits your goals, benefits from strong job placement rates, and offers the financial support you need. Whether you prefer a quick track to employment or a comprehensive training experience, Virginia has a CDL training program to suit your needs.
Take the first step today and enroll in a program that will drive your future success.