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 Surprise, AZ?

CDL training in Surprise, AZ 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 Surprise?

Most CDL training programs in Surprise 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 Surprise, AZ?

Yes, several CDL schools in the Surprise 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 Surprise 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 57 verified training programs serving the Surprise, Arizona area.

FMCSA VERIFIED 2025

CDL Schools in Surprise, AZ

Are you looking for commercial driver training in Surprise?We have identified 57 FMCSA-verified programs serving the Surprise area (Pop: 143,148).

Quick Stats

57 Training Programs

ELDT Compliant

3-8 Week Programs

Pop: 143,148

Quick Facts: CDL Training in Surprise, AZ

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 Surprise, AZ?

Students comparing CDL schools in Surprise, AZ 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 57 training programsserving the Surprise area and is intended to help students request information without exposing private school contact data publicly.

57 CDL Schools Near Surprise

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Top Picks in Surprise

Editor's Choice

#1 Editor's ChoiceVerified

MG Truck Driving School LLC,

Glendale, AZ

Call Now

#2 Editor's ChoiceVerified

Pan American Charter School

Phoenix, AZ

Call Now

#3 Editor's ChoiceVerified

Phoenix, AZ

20.7 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Showing 20 of 52 schools

CDL Training in Surprise, Arizona

Surprise, Arizona offers 57 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 Surprise?

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 Arizona often qualify for WIOA grants and veteran benefits
ELDT Compliance: All listed schools meet federal ELDT requirements effective February 2022

CDL Training Costs in Arizona

CDL training in Arizona 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 Arizona

Trucking Jobs Near Surprise

Get hired after you complete your CDL training

$45,000 - $75,000

Average annual salary for CDL drivers in Arizona

2,500+

Open trucking positions in Arizona

Top employers hiring near Surprise: 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 Surprise

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 B	Manual Trans.	View Details
160 Driving Academy FMCSA Verified	Glendale	Class AClass BHazmat		View Details
160 Driving Academy FMCSA Verified	Phoenix	Class AClass BHazmat		View Details
160 Driving Academy - Phoenix Classroom FMCSA Verified	Glendale	Class AClass BTanker	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesVA Approved	View Details
160 Driving Academy - Phoenix Yard FMCSA Verified	Phoenix	Class A		View Details
1st Premier Trucking Academy FMCSA Verified		Class AClass BHazmat	Manual Trans.Evening Classes	View Details
Advanced CDL Solutions LLC FMCSA Verified		Class AClass BHazmatTanker	Manual Trans.VA Approved	View Details
ALS FMCSA Verified		Class AClass BHazmatTanker	Manual Trans.Weekend Classes	View Details
American Leadership Academy FMCSA Verified	Mesa	Class ATanker	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesEvening ClassesVA Approved	View Details
Another Level Of CDL School, LLC FMCSA Verified	Phoenix	Class A	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesEvening Classes	View Details
Apache Junction Unified School District #43 FMCSA Verified	Apache Junction	Class AClass B	Manual Trans.Evening Classes	View Details
Arizona Automotive Institute FMCSA Verified	Glendale	Class A	Manual Trans.VA Approved	View Details
Arizona State Schools for the Deaf and the Blind/Phoenix Day School for the Deaf FMCSA Verified	Phoenix	Class AClass B	Manual Trans.	View Details
BOTELLO’S Transportation And Logistics, LLC FMCSA Verified		Class A	Manual Trans.Evening Classes	View Details
buckeye elementary school FMCSA Verified	Buckeye	Class AClass BTanker	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesVA Approved	View Details

Tuition Costs in Surprise

Avg. Private School

$6,200

Avg. Public School

$3,800

Price Range

$3,200 - $7,500

Phoenix has many schools competing.

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 Surprise

Required for your CDL medical card

NextCare Urgent Care - East Phoenix

1912 Corporate Way, Phoenix

(623) 292-1305

4.9

$116-$177

Walk-ins OK

TruckDoc Medical - Downtown Phoenix

2850 Medical Park Way, Phoenix

(520) 989-9466

4.9

$71-$132

Walk-ins OK

MedExpress Urgent Care - East Phoenix

1067 Medical Center Dr, Phoenix

(623) 594-5231

4.2

$59-$135

Walk-ins OK

View All 45 Clinics in Surprise 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 & MVD in Surprise

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

Find MVD Office

Frequently Asked Questions About CDL Training in Surprise

How long does CDL training take in Surprise?

CDL training programs in Surprise, AZ 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 Arizona?

CDL training costs in Arizona 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 Surprise without quitting my job?

Yes, several CDL schools in the Surprise 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 Surprise 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 Arizona?

Yes, several funding options exist for CDL training in Arizona: 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 Surprise?

The CDL driver job outlook near Surprise, AZ is strong. The American Trucking Associations reports a shortage of 80,000+ drivers nationally, with Arizona 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 Surprise?

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 Surprise 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 Arizona, including training programs in Surprise 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 Arizona

📋

Guide

CDL Schools in Surprise, AZ

Quick Stats

Quick Facts: CDL Training in Surprise, AZ

How should students compare CDL schools in Surprise, AZ?

57 CDL Schools Near Surprise

Top Picks in Surprise

MG Truck Driving School LLC,

Pan American Charter School

Truck Driving Schools of America

MG Truck Driving School LLC,

160 Driving Academy - Phoenix Classroom

Truck Driving Schools of America

Arizona Automotive Institute

Littleton Elementary School

Imagine Schools

Phoenix Truck Driving Institute

SAGE Truck Driving Schools- Phoenix

Fast Pass Trucking Training

Swift Driving Academy PHX

Arizona State Schools for the Deaf and the Blind/Phoenix Day School for the Deaf

Transportation Training Yard

Embark Truck Driving Schools Phoenix

Southwest Truck Driver Training - Phoenix

CDL Truck School, Inc.

Heartland Training Institute Phoenix

Roadmaster Drivers School (PHX)

160 Driving Academy - Phoenix Yard

buckeye elementary school

Another Level Of CDL School, LLC

CDL Training in Surprise, Arizona

Why Get CDL Training Near Surprise?

CDL Training Costs in Arizona

Trucking Jobs Near Surprise

Compare CDL Schools in Surprise

Tuition Costs in Surprise

Nearby Cities

Need Help Choosing?

More in Arizona

DOT Physicals Near Surprise

NextCare Urgent Care - East Phoenix

TruckDoc Medical - Downtown Phoenix

MedExpress Urgent Care - East Phoenix

CDL Testing & MVD in Surprise

Frequently Asked Questions About CDL Training in Surprise

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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