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 Modesto, CA?

CDL training in Modesto, CA 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 Modesto?

Most CDL training programs in Modesto 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 Modesto, CA?

Yes, several CDL schools in the Modesto 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 Modesto 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 43 verified training programs serving the Modesto, California area.

TWIC ELIGIBLE

FMCSA VERIFIED 2025

Top Modesto CDL Schools: Port, Agriculture & Logistics Careers

California's Booming Freight Economy Needs Qualified Drivers in Modesto

Get your Class A CDL in Modesto. Get qualified for Port of LA/Long Beach intermodal, Central Valley agriculture, and Silicon Valley logistics. We've identified 43 FMCSA-verified programs in your area.

Quick Stats

43 Training Programs

TWIC Card Prep

Intermodal Container

ELDT Compliant

3-8 Week Programs

Pop: 218,464

Why Modesto CDL Students Need TWIC Card Eligibility

California's freight economy is the largest in the US. Whether you're hauling agriculture from the Central Valley, tech equipment from Silicon Valley, or containers from the ports, Modesto CDL programs offer specialized training for California's unique driving conditions including mountain grades, urban congestion, and agricultural transport regulations.

TWIC Card Prep

Intermodal Container

Agriculture Transport

Quick Facts: CDL Training in Modesto, CA

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 Modesto, CA?

Students comparing CDL schools in Modesto, CA 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 43 training programsserving the Modesto area and is intended to help students request information without exposing private school contact data publicly.

43 CDL Schools Near Modesto

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Top Picks in Modesto

Editor's Choice

#1 Editor's ChoiceVerified

GREEN VALLEY TRUCK SCHOOL

Ceres, CA

Call Now

#2 Editor's ChoiceVerified

Big Rig Truck Driving School

Ceres, CA

Call Now

#3 Editor's ChoiceVerified

Truck Nation School-Modesto

Salida, CA

Call Now

GREEN VALLEY TRUCK SCHOOL

Ceres, CA

4 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Big Rig Truck Driving School

Ceres, CA

4.2 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Truck Nation School-Modesto

Salida, CA

6.6 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Hughson Unified School Di

Hughson, CA

7.8 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Ripon Christian School

Ripon, CA

10.3 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Performance Trucking Academy By Mosqueda

Lodi, CA

37.4 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Bret Harte High School

Angels Camp, CA

38.9 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

ADVANCE BUS & TRUCK DRIVING SCHOOL

Lodi, CA

39.3 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Foothill Horizions Outdoor School

Sonora, CA

45.2 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Summerville Union High School

Tuolumne, CA

46.2 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Correctional Training Center

Galt, CA

48.5 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Centro truck driving school

Modesto, CA

0.4 miles away

MISSION TRUCK DRIVING SCHOOL, LLC

Modesto, CA

1.1 miles away

CTDS Truck Driving School

Modesto, CA

1.2 miles away

Avon Truck Driving School Inc

Modesto, CA

1.3 miles away

The Truck Master School-Modesto

Modesto, CA

1.8 miles away

Western Pacific Truck School (Modesto)

Modesto, CA

2.2 miles away

Turlock Unified School District

Turlock, CA

12.9 miles away

Empire Truck Driving School

Turlock, CA

15.1 miles away

NEW LEGEND TRUCK DRIVING SCHOOL

Tracy, CA

21.6 miles away

Showing 20 of 41 schools

CDL Training in Modesto, California

Modesto, California has 43 FMCSA-verified CDL training programs serving students in 2026. California handles over 40% of all US containerized imports through the Port of Los Angeles and Port of Long Beach. The ports, agriculture & tech logistics sector creates critical demand for qualified CDL holders, and major freight corridors such as I-5/I-10/I-15 freight corridors connect new drivers to local, regional, and interstate opportunities. Average CDL driver salary in California is about $62,400 per year, with experienced drivers earning up to $95,000.

Why Get CDL Training Near Modesto?

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

CDL Training Costs in California

CDL training in California 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 California

Trucking Jobs Near Modesto

Get hired after you complete your CDL training

$45,000 - $75,000

Average annual salary for CDL drivers in California

2,500+

Open trucking positions in California

Top employers hiring near Modesto: 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 Modesto

Side-by-side comparison of top training programs

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⚙️ Transmission:

Showing 15 schools

School Name	City	Program Types	Key Features	Contact
160 Driving Academy - Stockton - Classroom FMCSA Verified	Stockton	Class ATanker	Manual Trans.Evening ClassesVA Approved	View Details
160 Driving Academy - Stockton - Yard FMCSA Verified	Stockton	Class ATanker	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesEvening Classes	View Details
ADVANCE BUS & TRUCK DRIVING SCHOOL FMCSA Verified	Lodi	Class AClass BTanker	Weekend ClassesEvening Classes	View Details
Advanced Career Institute Merced Ca FMCSA Verified	Merced	Class A	Manual Trans.	View Details
Akal Truck Driving School, LLC FMCSA Verified	Stockton	Class AHazmatTanker	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesVA Approved	View Details
Apex Truck Driving School - Stockton branch FMCSA Verified	Stockton	Class A	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesEvening ClassesVA Approved	View Details
Avon Truck Driving School Inc FMCSA Verified	Modesto	Class A	Manual Trans.Weekend Classes	View Details
Bajwa Truck Driving School FMCSA Verified	Lathrop	Class AClass BHazmat	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesVA Approved	View Details
Big Rig Truck Driving School FMCSA Verified	Ceres	Class AHazmatTanker	Manual Trans.Evening ClassesVA Approved	View Details
Bret Harte High School FMCSA Verified	Angels Camp	Class AClass B	Manual Trans.Weekend Classes	View Details
Brigght life trucking school FMCSA Verified	Stockton	Class AClass B	Manual Trans.	View Details
BSC Truck Driving School INC FMCSA Verified	Stockton	Class AClass B	Manual Trans.Evening Classes	View Details
Calaveras USD FMCSA Verified	San Andreas	Class ATanker	Weekend Classes	View Details
Centro truck driving school FMCSA Verified	Modesto	Class AHazmat	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesEvening ClassesVA Approved	View Details
Correctional Training Center FMCSA Verified	Galt	Class A	Manual Trans.Evening ClassesVA Approved	View Details

Tuition Costs in Modesto

Avg. Private School

$7,500

Avg. Public School

$2,800

Price Range

$2,000 - $9,500

Community Colleges in CA are significantly cheaper due to state subsidies.

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 Modesto

Required for your CDL medical card

TruckDoc Medical - Modesto

5057 Oak Ave, Modesto

(858) 532-7886

4.3

$73-$156

Walk-ins OK

OccuMed Clinic - North Modesto

8267 Central Ave, Modesto

(916) 568-8677

$94-$157

Walk-ins OK

OccuMed Clinic - East Modesto

4996 Business Park Dr, Modesto

(909) 232-3429

$94-$156

Walk-ins OK

View All 8 Clinics in Modesto 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 & DMV in Modesto

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

Find DMV Office

Frequently Asked Questions About CDL Training in Modesto

How long does CDL training take in Modesto?

CDL training programs in Modesto, CA 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 California?

CDL training costs in California 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 Modesto without quitting my job?

Yes, several CDL schools in the Modesto 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 Modesto 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 California?

Yes, several funding options exist for CDL training in California: 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.

Do I need a TWIC card to drive trucks in California?

A TWIC (Transportation Worker Identification Credential) card isn't required for all CDL jobs in California, but it's essential for port trucking. If you want to haul containers from the Port of LA, Port of Long Beach, or Port of Oakland—where drivers earn $75,000-$95,000/year—you'll need TWIC clearance. The application takes 8-12 weeks and costs $125.50, so start the process during CDL training.

What makes California CDL training different?

California CDL training must address unique state requirements: CARB (California Air Resources Board) truck emission regulations, agricultural transport rules for Central Valley hauling, mountain grade driving on I-5 Grapevine and Donner Pass, and urban congestion management for LA/SF metro areas. California also requires the Supplemental Driving Test for certain endorsements. Look for schools that include these California-specific components.

This page lists FMCSA-verified CDL schools in California, including training programs in Modesto 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 California

📋

Guide

Top Modesto CDL Schools: Port, Agriculture & Logistics Careers

California's Booming Freight Economy Needs Qualified Drivers in Modesto

Quick Stats

Why Modesto CDL Students Need TWIC Card Eligibility

Quick Facts: CDL Training in Modesto, CA

How should students compare CDL schools in Modesto, CA?

43 CDL Schools Near Modesto

Top Picks in Modesto

GREEN VALLEY TRUCK SCHOOL

Big Rig Truck Driving School

Truck Nation School-Modesto

GREEN VALLEY TRUCK SCHOOL

Big Rig Truck Driving School

Truck Nation School-Modesto

Hughson Unified School Di

Ripon Christian School

Performance Trucking Academy By Mosqueda

Bret Harte High School

ADVANCE BUS & TRUCK DRIVING SCHOOL

Foothill Horizions Outdoor School

Summerville Union High School

Correctional Training Center

Centro truck driving school

MISSION TRUCK DRIVING SCHOOL, LLC

CTDS Truck Driving School

Avon Truck Driving School Inc

The Truck Master School-Modesto

Western Pacific Truck School (Modesto)

Turlock Unified School District

Empire Truck Driving School

NEW LEGEND TRUCK DRIVING SCHOOL

CDL Training in Modesto, California

Why Get CDL Training Near Modesto?

CDL Training Costs in California

Trucking Jobs Near Modesto

Compare CDL Schools in Modesto

Tuition Costs in Modesto

Nearby Cities

Need Help Choosing?

More in California

DOT Physicals Near Modesto

TruckDoc Medical - Modesto

OccuMed Clinic - North Modesto

OccuMed Clinic - East Modesto

CDL Testing & DMV in Modesto

Frequently Asked Questions About CDL Training in Modesto

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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