If you’re interested in getting a CDL, you’ve probably run across the term paid CDL training and wondered, does this mean I get paid during training?
Most CDL students’ goals are to get a CDL for free or for as little upfront cost as possible. Many also hope to be paid during CDL school. While getting your CDL school paid for or free is possible, being paid during CDL school is rare. There are very few schools or companies that pay you for time spent getting a CDL. However, once you have a CDL and sign on with a company, they will pay you for orientation and in-truck training.
How does Paid CDL Training work?
Well, how exactly does paid CDL training work? Upon graduation from CDL school, you will enter your chosen company’s new driver orientation program. During orientation, you will begin receiving pay. Generally, set weekly rate. The carrier may also cover housing and meals. Once orientation is complete, you will be assigned a driver trainer and begin on-the-job training. Generally, student trainees are paid more during this time.
How to get paid CDL Training?
The first step for a student driverpa is to obtain a CDL. You can have confidence in working with the Driver Resource Center because our partner carriers offer paid training. Before accepting a job, a career specialist will review training pay with you. That way, you’ll know what to expect after graduation.
Who Qualifies for Paid CDL Training?
To qualify for your company’s paid training program, you must meet the following requirements.
- Have a valid CDL through an ELDT approved course
- Meet DOT physical standards
- Pass a DOT Drug Test
- Meet the carrier’s minimum age requirements
- Be eligible to work in the U.S.
Can I receive paid CDL training before I get my CDL license?
As mentioned above, receiving income while training for a CDL is rare but not impossible. Below are three ways to get paid during CDL training.
• Military veterans can begin a second career as a truck driver utilizing their GI Bill® benefits during CDL training.
•Certain Grants offer students a stipend to cover their expenses while in school.
•Some companies offer apprenticeship programs, which give students a minimal allowance while in school. However, payment does not begin until student drivers obtain their CDL License and company orientation.
What’s next?
The next step is to learn more about paying for CDL training. At Driver Resource Center, we offer several options to help cover most, if not all, the cost of CDL training. Our goal is to help you get a CDL with minimal upfront costs. Learn more or get started now by filling out the interest form below.
*GI Bill® is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). More information about education benefits offered by VA is available at the official U.S. government. Web site at https://www.benefits.va.gov/gibill. https://www.benefits.va.gov/GIBILL/Trademark_Terms_of_Use.asp