How long does it take to get a CDL?

CDL training programs typically take 3-8 weeks for full-time students. Part-time programs may take 3-6 months. The exact duration depends on the type of CDL (Class A, B, or C) and the training school.

What is ELDT certification?

Entry Level Driver Training (ELDT) is a federal requirement since February 2022. All new CDL applicants must complete training from an FMCSA-registered provider before taking the CDL skills test.

How much does CDL school cost in 2026?

CDL training costs typically range from $3,000 to $10,000 for private schools in 2026. Company-sponsored programs may offer free training in exchange for a work commitment. Financial aid, WIOA grants, and VA benefits can help cover costs.

Can I get paid while training for my CDL?

Yes, many trucking companies offer paid CDL training programs where you earn a salary while learning. These programs typically require a 1-2 year employment commitment after graduation.

What is the difference between Class A and Class B CDL?

A Class A CDL allows you to drive combination vehicles (tractor-trailers) over 26,001 lbs with a towed vehicle over 10,000 lbs. A Class B CDL covers single vehicles over 26,001 lbs like buses, dump trucks, and delivery trucks. Class A offers more job opportunities and typically higher pay.

How do I verify if a CDL school is legitimate?

Verify the school is registered with the FMCSA Training Provider Registry (TPR). All legitimate ELDT providers must be listed. Use our Scam Checker tool to verify schools against the federal registry and check for complaints.

Do CDL schools provide certification?

Yes, accredited CDL training schools prepare students for their commercial driver license (CDL) certification exam. After completing an ELDT-approved program, students are eligible to take the CDL skills test at their state DMV. CDL Schools USA lists only FMCSA-verified schools that meet federal certification training standards.

What is the difference between CDL certification and CDL training?

CDL training refers to the hands-on instruction and classroom education provided by truck driving schools. CDL certification is the official credential you receive after passing your state CDL skills test. Accredited CDL training programs prepare you for certification by covering required ELDT theory and behind-the-wheel hours.

How much does CDL training cost in Mena, AR?

CDL training in Mena, AR typically costs between $3,000 and $8,000, with an average of $5,000. Costs vary based on program type (private school vs. community college), training length, and included endorsements like Hazmat or Tanker.

How long does it take to get a CDL in Mena?

Most CDL training programs in Mena take 3-8 weeks for full-time students. Community college programs may take 8-16 weeks. Part-time and weekend programs are available for working adults and may extend the timeline. After training, you must pass the CDL skills test at your state DMV.

Are there weekend CDL classes in Mena, AR?

Yes, several CDL schools in the Mena area offer weekend and evening classes for students who cannot attend full-time programs. These flexible schedules allow working adults to earn their CDL without quitting their current job.

How do I verify a CDL school in Mena is legitimate?

All legitimate CDL schools must be registered in the FMCSA Training Provider Registry (TPR) at tpr.fmcsa.dot.gov. You can verify any school's ELDT certification status there. Be wary of schools that cannot provide their TPR registration number or promise a CDL in less than 2 weeks.

CDL Schools USA is an independent directory that lists and verifies FMCSA-registered commercial driver's license (CDL) training providers across the United States. This page contains 53 verified training programs serving the Mena, Arkansas area.

FMCSA VERIFIED 2025

CDL Schools in Mena, AR

Are you looking for commercial driver training in Mena?We have identified 53 FMCSA-verified programs serving the Mena area (Pop: 20,000).

Quick Stats

53 Training Programs

ELDT Compliant

3-8 Week Programs

Pop: 20,000

Quick Facts: CDL Training in Mena, AR

CDL License Types

Class A, Class B, Class C

Average Training Cost

$3,000 – $8,000

Program Length

3-8 weeks

Weekend / Evening Options

Available at select schools

FMCSA Registration Required

Yes

Verified Schools

Local CDL training answer

How should students compare CDL schools in Mena, AR?

Students comparing CDL schools in Mena, AR should first confirm that the provider is listed in the FMCSA Training Provider Registry for the CDL class or endorsement they need. Then compare tuition, behind-the-wheel hours, public enrollment status, manual or automatic transmission training, weekend or evening schedules, and whether the program supports WIOA, veteran benefits, job placement, or employer-sponsored training. This page lists 53 training programsserving the Mena area and is intended to help students request information without exposing private school contact data publicly.

53 CDL Schools Near Mena

CDL Training Market in Mena, AR (2026 Report)

Market Snapshot

Active Schools3
ELDT Verified3
Average Tuition$3,500
Starting From$3,500
Weekend TrainingAvailable

Aspiring truck drivers in Mena have access to 3 FMCSA-verified training programs for the 2026 academic year.

The market is competitive, with tuition ranging from an affordable $3,500 up to premium programs around $7,200.

Many schools in Mena offer flexible scheduling including evening and weekend classes.

Many schools partner with major carriers to offer job placement assistance upon graduation.

*Data verified by CDL Schools USA via the FMCSA Training Provider Registry. Last updated: December 2026.

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Top Picks in Mena

Editor's Choice

#1 Editor's ChoiceVerified

Maverick Driving Academy

North Little Rock, AR

Call Now

#2 Editor's ChoiceVerified

WorldLink Truck Driving Academy

North Little Rock, AR

Call Now

#3 Editor's ChoiceVerified

Mena, AR

14.4 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verifiedclass_a_theoryclass_a_behind_the_wheel_rangeclass_a_behind_the_wheel_public_roadclass_b_theory

Showing 20 of 51 schools

CDL Training in Mena, Arkansas

Mena, Arkansas offers 53 FMCSA-verified CDL training programs for aspiring commercial drivers in 2026. Whether you need a Class A CDL for tractor-trailers or a Class B CDL for straight trucks, compare the programs below by tuition, training length, public enrollment status, and available endorsements. Full-time CDL training often takes 4-8 weeks, while part-time, evening, and weekend options may take longer. Before enrolling, confirm the provider is listed in the FMCSA Training Provider Registry and ask whether the school offers job placement, manual transmission training, WIOA or veteran funding support, and behind-the-wheel practice that matches your target CDL class.

Why Get CDL Training Near Mena?

Local Training: Train close to home with familiar roads and traffic patterns
Job Placement: Many local trucking companies hire graduates directly
Financial Aid: Schools in Arkansas often qualify for WIOA grants and veteran benefits
ELDT Compliance: All listed schools meet federal ELDT requirements effective February 2022

CDL Training Costs in Arkansas

CDL training in Arkansas typically ranges from $3,000 to $8,000 for private schools, with community colleges offering programs from $2,000 to $5,000. Many trucking companies also offer paid CDL training programs with a 1-2 year employment commitment.

View all CDL schools in Arkansas

Trucking Jobs Near Mena

Get hired after you complete your CDL training

$45,000 - $75,000

Average annual salary for CDL drivers in Arkansas

2,500+

Open trucking positions in Arkansas

Top employers hiring near Mena: Amazon, Walmart, UPS, FedEx, Werner Enterprises, Schneider National, Swift Transportation, and regional carriers.

Job types available: Local delivery, regional routes, OTR (Over-the-Road), dedicated routes, tanker, flatbed, and refrigerated transport.

Browse CDL Jobs Get Paid to Train

Compare CDL Schools in Mena

Side-by-side comparison of top training programs

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⚙️ Transmission:

Showing 15 schools

School Name	City	Program Types	Key Features	Contact
1 Mile At A Time Trucking & Training LLC FMCSA Verified		Class AClass BHazmat	Evening ClassesVA Approved	View Details
160 Driving Academy - Little Rock Classroom FMCSA Verified	North Little Rock	Class A	VA Approved	View Details
160 Driving Academy - Little Rock Yard FMCSA Verified	North Little Rock	Class A	Manual Trans.Weekend Classes	View Details
160 Driving Academy - North Little Rock - Classroom FMCSA Verified	North Little Rock	Class AClass BTanker		View Details
160 Driving Academy - North Little Rock - Yard FMCSA Verified	North Little Rock	Class A	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesVA Approved	View Details
1st Premier Trucking Academy FMCSA Verified		Class A	Manual Trans.Weekend Classes	View Details
4L"s CDL School FMCSA Verified	Vilonia	Class AHazmat	Manual Trans.Weekend Classes	View Details
Academics Plus Charter Schools, Inc. FMCSA Verified	Maumelle	Class ATanker	Manual Trans.VA Approved	View Details
Advanced CDL Solutions LLC FMCSA Verified		Class AHazmatTanker	VA Approved	View Details
Beebe Public Schools FMCSA Verified	Beebe	Class AHazmat	Manual Trans.VA Approved	View Details
Brian Tackett - Independent Instructor FMCSA Verified		Class A	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesEvening Classes	View Details
CDL Academy LLC FMCSA Verified	Little Rock	Class AHazmat	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesEvening ClassesVA Approved	View Details
CDL Academy LLC FMCSA Verified	Little Rock	Class A	Weekend ClassesVA Approved	View Details
CDL future trucking academy (On site training) FMCSA Verified		Class AClass BTanker	Manual Trans.Evening ClassesVA Approved	View Details
CDL Training and Testing Center FMCSA Verified		Class A	Manual Trans.	View Details

Tuition Costs in Mena

Avg. Private School

$4,400

Avg. Public School

$2,800

Price Range

$2,400 - $5,600

Home to many trucking companies (JB Hunt, ABF).

Nearby Cities

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Take our free quiz to get matched with schools that fit your needs, budget, and schedule.

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DOT Physicals Near Mena

Required for your CDL medical card

MedPro Occupational Health - West Little Rock

4260 Commerce Blvd, Little Rock

(479) 205-4022

$112-$173

Walk-ins OK

CHI St. Vincent Urgent Care

2 St Vincent Cir, Little Rock

(501) 552-3000

4.6

$70-$135

Baptist Health Urgent Care

9601 Baptist Health Dr, Little Rock

(501) 202-2000

4.5

$70-$135

Walk-ins OK

View All 19 Clinics in Mena All Locations

💡 Pro Tip: Get your DOT physical before starting CDL training. The exam typically costs $55-$150 and is valid for up to 2 years.

CDL Testing & Driver Services in Mena

Schedule your CDL knowledge and skills tests through your local Driver Services office. Find testing locations, wait times, and required documents.

Find Driver Services Office

Frequently Asked Questions About CDL Training in Mena

How long does CDL training take in Mena?

CDL training programs in Mena, AR typically take 3-8 weeks for full-time students. Part-time programs may take 3-6 months. Company-sponsored programs often run 4-6 weeks with guaranteed job placement upon completion.

How much does CDL school cost in Arkansas?

CDL training costs in Arkansas range from $3,000-$10,000 for private schools, $1,500-$5,000 at community colleges, and FREE through company-sponsored programs (with employment commitment). Many schools accept WIOA grants, GI Bill benefits, and offer payment plans.

Can I get a CDL in Mena without quitting my job?

Yes, several CDL schools in the Mena area offer weekend and evening classes for working adults. These flexible schedules allow you to earn your CDL while keeping your current job. Weekend programs typically take 8-16 weeks to complete.

How do I know if a CDL school in Mena is legitimate?

All legitimate CDL schools must be registered in the FMCSA Training Provider Registry (TPR) at tpr.fmcsa.dot.gov. You can verify any school there. Be wary of schools that promise a CDL in less than 2 weeks or cannot provide their TPR registration number. The FMCSA removed over 550 non-compliant providers in 2025-2026 alone.

Do I need ELDT training to get a CDL?

Yes, as of February 2022, all first-time CDL applicants must complete Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) from an FMCSA-registered training provider before taking the CDL skills test. All schools listed on CDL Schools USA are ELDT-compliant. The ELDT requirement includes both theory instruction (30+ hours) and behind-the-wheel training.

Can I get financial aid for CDL school in Arkansas?

Yes, several funding options exist for CDL training in Arkansas: WIOA (Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act) grants, Pell Grants at eligible community colleges, VA benefits for veterans, and company-sponsored training programs. Contact individual schools to learn about their specific financial aid options.

What is the job outlook for CDL drivers near Mena?

The CDL driver job outlook near Mena, AR is strong. The American Trucking Associations reports a shortage of 80,000+ drivers nationally, with Arkansas experiencing above-average demand. Starting salaries for new CDL graduates typically range from $45,000-$55,000, with experienced drivers earning $65,000-$80,000. Many carriers offer signing bonuses of $5,000-$15,000 for qualified CDL holders.

Should I get a Class A or Class B CDL in Mena?

The choice depends on your career goals. A Class A CDL allows you to drive any commercial vehicle including tractor-trailers (18-wheelers)—this opens the most job opportunities and highest pay. A Class B CDL limits you to straight trucks, buses, and dump trucks but is sufficient for local delivery, waste management, and transit jobs. Most Mena CDL schools offer both options. If unsure, get the Class A—it qualifies you for Class B jobs too.

This page lists FMCSA-verified CDL schools in Arkansas, including training programs in Mena and surrounding cities. All listed programs meet Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) requirements.

📚

Essential Reading for CDL Students

Expert guides to help you start your trucking career in Arkansas

📋

Guide

CDL Schools in Mena, AR

Quick Stats

Quick Facts: CDL Training in Mena, AR

How should students compare CDL schools in Mena, AR?

53 CDL Schools Near Mena

CDL Training Market in Mena, AR (2026 Report)

Market Snapshot

Top Picks in Mena

Maverick Driving Academy

WorldLink Truck Driving Academy

Ivory Gaston CDL Training PCSSD

Maverick Driving Academy

160 Driving Academy - Little Rock Yard

WorldLink Truck Driving Academy

Ivory Gaston CDL Training PCSSD

ELDT Solutions - On Site CDL Training

Advanced CDL Solutions LLC

The CDL Coach

Five Star Driver Training and Safety Consulting

Eclipse DOT

Safe Smart CDL Training

First Baptist Church

The academy

Southern States ELDT

Justin's Driver Training

ELDT Academy, LLC - Travelling CDL Instructors

Elvira's Trucking Academy

CDL Training and Testing Center

1st Premier Trucking Academy

1 Mile At A Time Trucking & Training LLC

Cheapest ELDT only 2500 for CDL

CDL Training in Mena, Arkansas

Why Get CDL Training Near Mena?

CDL Training Costs in Arkansas

Trucking Jobs Near Mena

Compare CDL Schools in Mena

Tuition Costs in Mena

Nearby Cities

Need Help Choosing?

More in Arkansas

DOT Physicals Near Mena

MedPro Occupational Health - West Little Rock

CHI St. Vincent Urgent Care

Baptist Health Urgent Care

CDL Testing & Driver Services in Mena

Frequently Asked Questions About CDL Training in Mena

Essential Reading for CDL Students

How to Get Your CDL in 2026: Complete Step-by-Step Guide

CDL First Year Salary 2026: The Reality Check

How to Pay for CDL School (7 Options)

WIOA Grants: Free CDL Training for Unemployed

CDL School Scams to Avoid in 2026

Can You Get a CDL in 2 Weeks? Fast Track Guide

The Truth About "Free" Company-Sponsored CDL Training

Why Students Fail the CDL Road Test (And How to Pass)

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