Are you ready to start a new career as a truck driver and wondering, “How long does it take to get a CDL?” The answer depends on a few key factors, but typically, it takes around 3-4 weeks to complete your CDL training if you’re attending classes full-time. For students looking to get their CDL as quickly as possible, full-time training is the fastest route. However, several variables can affect how long CDL school takes.
What Factors Affect the Time It Takes to Get a CDL?
Professional truck driver is one of the few high paying careers that does not require a college degree or a lot of time. Unlike many trade school or traditional higher education programs, you can get your CDL in less than a month. While it doesn’t take long to get a CDL, it does, however, take dedication. When selecting a school, you will want to consider the following factors.
School Duration
How long it takes to get a CDL is greatly impacted by whether you attend full time or part time. The benefit of full-time attendance is you can finish in 3-4 weeks. Full-time spent in class will reduce the overall time it takes to get a CDL. Full-time attendance in our program is five days a week, Monday through Friday. However, flexible part time and night schedules are available at some schools. Attending classes part-time will extend the time it takes to get a CDL. The goal is to select a program that enables you to understand the material and develop the skills needed to get a commercial driver’s license.
CDL Training Length
DRC network schools offer a 160-hour training curriculum This is split into two parts, classroom and driving. Classroom training is 40 hours and covers the essential knowledge needed to safely operate a commercial vehicle. From DOT regulations and defensive driving techniques to road condition, classroom time is vital to your success and lays the foundation for road and range training. The length of classroom training can affect how long truck driving school takes, but it is very important.
Road and Range training is 120 hours and follows classroom training. Students spend their time practicing driving and backing maneuvers like the straight line back and alley dock. In addition, students will practice on the road driving with a licensed CDL driver. Our curriculum is set up to provide adequate time for students to develop their skills and comfort behind the wheel.
CDL License Type
There are three different types of CDL licenses: Class A, B, and C. Each classification allows you to drive trucks with various weight ratings. You will need a Class A CDL to drive trucks with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 26,001 pounds or more. Class A driving school takes longer than Class B, because you can drive a larger variety of trucks and heavier loads. DRC’s CDL training programs are for Class A and take 3-4 weeks. Obtaining a Class B, which would prepare you to drive a straight truck, dump truck and smaller weight loads, takes less time. However, the time it takes to get a Class A is worth it because of increased earning potential.
Student Ability
How long it takes to get a CDL depends on your ability to understand and master driving maneuvers. The better your aptitude for driving, the more likely you will complete training in 3-4 weeks. Through a DRC network school, additional training beyond 160 hours is provided at no additional cost. We understand that all students learn at a different pace and our goal is to ensure you have the skills to pass the CDL exam. Most students complete training in 4 weeks with no previous driving experience.
Testing Schedule
How long it takes to become a truck driver can be affected by testing availability. Some schools offer on-site third-party testing. While others require students to test at state government locations. The type of testing and availability can determine this timeline. Our goal at DRC is to schedule students for their CDL test as soon as they are ready.
Endorsements
Adding endorsements to your CDL license can increase the number of job opportunities available to you after graduation. Each endorsement may add additional time to become a truck driver. Six additional endorsements can be placed on your commercial driver’s license. The type of endorsement you add depends on your driving career goals. Endorsements can be added anytime throughout your career.
- (H) Hazardous Materials
- (X) Tanker/HAZMAT Combo
- (N) Tank Vehicle
- (T) Double/Triple Endorsement
- (P) Passenger Transport
- (S) School Bus/Passenger Transport Combo
What is ELDT Training?
During your search to learn more about CDL training and the length of CDL classes you might have come across the term ELDT. This stands for Entry-Level Driver Training. In February of 2022, the FMCSA Entry-Level Driver Training rule went into effect requiring all new commercial drivers to complete an entry-level driver training program before getting their CDL. You are probably wondering if ELDT has increased how long it takes to get a CDL? ELDT has not increased CDL training time at our school. ELDT includes a minimum standards for commercial truck driver education that CDL training providers like our network of schools must meet. All of our schools are ELDT certified. Our curriculum is very comprehensive and meets all ELDT requirements.
If I Fail a CDL Exam, Can I Retake It?
If you fail your CDL test, don’t worry—you can retake it! The specific rules for retaking the test vary by state, but generally, you can retake the exam as soon as the next available testing slot, often after a waiting period of a few days. Most states allow multiple retakes, although there might be a limit to how many times you can attempt the test within a set timeframe, such as three attempts before requiring additional training. Be sure to check your state’s specific guidelines for CDL retake policies to understand the exact requirements.
Are There Wait Times for Class Enrollment?
Depending on the school location and time of year you may experience enrollment wait times. We do our best to get students enrolled in class as soon as possible. It is important to schedule a class start time as soon as possible to avoid delays.
Why Quality Training Matters More Than Speed
It’s possible to get a CDL quickly—but how you’re trained matters just as much as how fast you finish.
Most reputable CDL programs take about 3–4 weeks because they combine classroom learning, range practice, and real-world driving experience.
That time is essential to build the skills employers are looking for—not just to pass the test.
Some programs may advertise faster timelines, but these often focus on getting you through the exam rather than preparing you for a career. In many cases, that means limited hands-on driving, less time behind the wheel, and fewer opportunities to build confidence before you start working.
At Driver Resource Center network schools, training is designed to prepare you for the job—not just the test. That includes:
- Hands-on driving on real roads, not just the range
- Time spent practicing backing, turning, and inspections
- Instruction from experienced CDL professionals
- Training that aligns with what carriers expect from new drivers
Because at the end of the day, the goal isn’t just to get your CDL; it’s to be ready to succeed at your new driving job.
Quality CDL Schools vs CLD Mills – What is the Difference?
Here’s how high-quality CDL training compares:
CDL Mills
- Rush students through training in a short timeframe
- Limited hands-on driving time
- Focused mainly on passing the CDL exam
- Little connection to hiring carriers
- Graduates may feel unprepared starting their first job
DRC Network Schools
- Comprehensive 3–4 week programs built around skill development
- Hands-on training in real driving conditions
- Focus on safety, confidence, and long-term success
- Strong relationships with hiring carriers
- Career services that help you secure a job
Choosing the right school can impact everything from your confidence behind the wheel to your ability to get hired. Did you know that the industry’s top carriers require a minimum number of training hours to get hired. That’s why quality training matters.
Key Takeaways: How Long Is CDL School?
- Full-time CDL training can be completed in 3-4 weeks.
- Part-time schedules may extend your training to several months.
- The type of CDL license (Class A, B, or C) affects the training duration.
- Testing availability and optional endorsements can add to the timeline.
Whether you’re aiming to get your CDL in a few weeks or need more flexibility with part-time classes, choosing the right CDL school and training program is essential to reach your career goals quickly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What documents do I need before enrolling in CDL school?
Before enrolling in CDL school, you will need a valid driver’s license in the state you wish to get a CDL, your Social Security card, and proof of citizenship or permanent residency (a birth certificate, passport or green card).
Can you get a CDL in a week?
Some programs advertise very short timelines like a week, but these typically focus only on passing the test—not building real driving skills. Most students benefit from a structured program that takes a few weeks to fully prepare. A CDL training program that is only a week may not be seen a reputable to employers. Many employers have training hour minimums to meet insurance requirements.
What is a CDL Mill?
A CDL mill is a training program that prioritizes speed over quality, often providing minimal hands-on experience. In recent years, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration has increased enforcement of Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) standards—removing thousands of non-compliant schools from its Training Provider Registry and cracking down on programs that fail to properly train drivers.
How many hours of CDL training do you really need?
There isn’t always a set number of required hours, but most high-quality CDL programs include around 160–200 hours of training to properly cover classroom instruction and behind-the-wheel experience. Many industry leading carriers require a minimum of 160 hours of training to get hired.
How do medical conditions affect your ability to get a CDL?
Certain medical conditions can prevent someone from meeting DOT standards for truck driving. During the DOT physical, applicants provide their health history, which the medical examiner reviews to determine fitness to drive. If an issue is found, the examiner may temporarily disqualify the applicant until they can be reevaluated. Once cleared, the driver receives a medical card confirming they are fit to drive. For a full list of DOT-disqualifying medical conditions, read our detailed guide here: DOT Disqualifying Medical Conditions.
Get Started Today
Truck drivers are in high demand. The Driver Resource Center’s network of training schools provide comprehensive training and job placement services. How long it takes to get a CDL is up to you. With dedication and hard work you can get a CDL in 3-4 weeks and graduate with multiple truck driving job opportunities. To get started apply today or call a career specialist. Our career specialists can help determine which tuition assistance programs may help you.