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 Ventura, CA?

CDL training in Ventura, 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 Ventura?

Most CDL training programs in Ventura 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 Ventura, CA?

Yes, several CDL schools in the Ventura 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 Ventura 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 28 verified training programs serving the Ventura, California area.

FMCSA VERIFIED 2025

CDL Schools in Ventura, CA

Are you looking for commercial driver training in Ventura?We have identified 28 FMCSA-verified programs serving the Ventura area (Pop: 45,000).

Quick Stats

28 Training Programs

ELDT Compliant

3-8 Week Programs

Pop: 45,000

Quick Facts: CDL Training in Ventura, 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 Ventura, CA?

Students comparing CDL schools in Ventura, 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 28 training programsserving the Ventura area and is intended to help students request information without exposing private school contact data publicly.

28 CDL Schools Near Ventura

CDL Training Market in Ventura, CA (2026 Report)

Market Snapshot

Active Schools5
ELDT Verified5
Average Tuition$4,000
Starting From$4,000
Weekend TrainingAvailable

Aspiring truck drivers in Ventura have access to 5 FMCSA-verified training programs for the 2026 academic year.

The market is competitive, with tuition ranging from an affordable $4,000 up to premium programs around $8,000.

Many schools in Ventura 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 Ventura

Editor's Choice

#1 Editor's ChoiceVerified

AGT Trucking School

Ventura, CA

Call Now

#2 Editor's ChoiceVerified

Maatson Trucking School

Ventura, CA

Call Now

#3 Editor's ChoiceVerified

Van Nuys, CA

49.4 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Durham School Services

Oxnard, CA

7.4 miles away

160 Driving Academy

Oxnard, CA

7.8 miles away

Showing 20 of 25 schools

CDL Training in Ventura, California

Ventura, California has 28 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. Average CDL driver salary in California is about $62,400 per year, with experienced drivers reaching $95,000. The ports, agriculture & tech logistics sector creates critical demand for qualified CDL holders near Ventura, and major freight corridors such as I-5/I-10/I-15 freight corridors connect graduates to local, regional, and long-haul work. Every school listed on this page is tied to FMCSA Training Provider Registry review, which matters because ELDT completion must come from a registered provider before a first-time CDL applicant can take the skills test.

Why Get CDL Training Near Ventura?

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 Ventura

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 Ventura: 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 Ventura

Side-by-side comparison of top training programs

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Showing 15 schools

School Name	City	Program Types	Key Features	Contact
101 School of Trucking FMCSA Verified	Ventura	Class A		View Details
160 Driving Academy FMCSA Verified	Oxnard	Class AClass BHazmat		View Details
160 Driving Academy - Oxnard Yard FMCSA Verified	Ventura	Class AClass BTanker	Manual Trans.Weekend Classes	View Details
AGT Trucking School FMCSA Verified	Ventura	Class AHazmatTanker	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesVA Approved	View Details
AGT Trucking School FMCSA Verified	Canoga Park	Class AClass BTanker	Manual Trans.VA Approved	View Details
Cate School FMCSA Verified	Carpinteria	Class AClass BHazmat	Weekend ClassesEvening Classes	View Details
Chayka Truck Driving LLC FMCSA Verified	Van Nuys	Class A	Manual Trans.VA Approved	View Details
Commercial Trucking School FMCSA Verified	Santa Clarita	Class AHazmat	Manual Trans.Evening ClassesVA Approved	View Details
D7 West Region training FMCSA Verified	Camarillo	Class AClass BHazmat	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesVA Approved	View Details
D7 West Region training FMCSA Verified	Moorpark	Class A	Manual Trans.Weekend Classes	View Details
Del Valle Training Center FMCSA Verified	Castaic	Class AClass BHazmatTanker	Manual Trans.Weekend Classes	View Details
Durham School Services FMCSA Verified	Oxnard	Class AHazmat	VA Approved	View Details
Easy CDL Ventura FMCSA Verified	Ventura	Class AClass BTanker	Weekend ClassesVA Approved	View Details
Fast-Pass Trucking Training FMCSA Verified	Goleta	Class A		View Details
Fast-Pass Trucking Training FMCSA Verified	Agoura Hills	Class AClass B	VA Approved	View Details

Tuition Costs in Ventura

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.

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CDL Testing & DMV in Ventura

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 Ventura

How long does CDL training take in Ventura?

CDL training programs in Ventura, 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 Ventura without quitting my job?

Yes, several CDL schools in the Ventura 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 Ventura 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 Ventura and surrounding cities. All listed programs meet Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) requirements.

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Essential Reading for CDL Students

Expert guides to help you start your trucking career in California

📋

Guide

CDL Schools in Ventura, CA

Quick Stats

Quick Facts: CDL Training in Ventura, CA

How should students compare CDL schools in Ventura, CA?

28 CDL Schools Near Ventura

CDL Training Market in Ventura, CA (2026 Report)

Market Snapshot

Top Picks in Ventura

AGT Trucking School

Maatson Trucking School

Easy CDL Ventura

101 School of Trucking

160 Driving Academy - Oxnard Yard

AGT Trucking School

Maatson Trucking School

Easy CDL Ventura

Ventura Training Center

Cate School

D7 West Region training

D7 West Region training

Fast-Pass Trucking Training

Fast-Pass Trucking Training

MUSE GLOBAL SCHOOL

Del Valle Training Center

AGT Trucking School

Holy Martyrs Armenian Ferrahian School

GSF Driving & Truck Training School - Sylmar

Chayka Truck Driving LLC

van nuys high school

Durham School Services

160 Driving Academy

CDL Training in Ventura, California

Why Get CDL Training Near Ventura?

CDL Training Costs in California

Trucking Jobs Near Ventura

Compare CDL Schools in Ventura

Tuition Costs in Ventura

Nearby Cities

Need Help Choosing?

More in California

CDL Testing & DMV in Ventura

Frequently Asked Questions About CDL Training in Ventura

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How to Pay for CDL School (7 Options)

WIOA Grants: Free CDL Training for Unemployed

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

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