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 Tampa, FL?

CDL training in Tampa, FL 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 Tampa?

Most CDL training programs in Tampa 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 Tampa, FL?

Yes, several CDL schools in the Tampa 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 Tampa 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 20 verified training programs serving the Tampa, Florida area.

PORT ACCESS

FMCSA VERIFIED 2025

NO STATE TAX

Tampa CDL Schools: Port Access, Tourism Logistics & Year-Round Work

Florida's Non-Stop Freight Economy Creates $70K+ Careers in Tampa

Get your Class A CDL in Tampa. Train for PortMiami, Port Everglades, and JAXPORT container hauling plus tourism and seasonal freight. We've identified 20 FMCSA-verified programs in your area.

Quick Stats

20 Training Programs

Port Container Hauling

Doubles/Triples

ELDT Compliant

3-8 Week Programs

Pop: 399,700

Why Tampa Drivers Should Get Doubles/Triples Endorsement

Florida's ports are among the busiest in the US. PortMiami, Port Everglades, and JAXPORT handle billions in cargo annually. CDL drivers in Tampa with TWIC cards and intermodal experience earn 20-30% more than standard OTR. Florida's year-round construction boom also creates constant demand for flatbed and heavy-haul drivers. Choose a Tampa school that prepares you for Florida's diverse freight economy.

Port Container Hauling

Doubles/Triples

Year-Round Schedules

Quick Facts: CDL Training in Tampa, FL

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 Tampa, FL?

Students comparing CDL schools in Tampa, FL 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 20 training programsserving the Tampa area and is intended to help students request information without exposing private school contact data publicly.

20 CDL Schools Near Tampa

Filter Results:

Sort by:

Top Picks in Tampa

Editor's Choice

#1 Editor's ChoiceVerified

Mister CDL Inc

Thonotosassa, FL

Call Now

#2 Editor's ChoiceVerified

SAGE Truck Driving School at HCC Plant City/Tampa FL

Plant City, FL

Call Now

#3 Editor's ChoiceVerified

FleetForce Truck Driver Training-New Port Richey

New Port Richey, FL

Call Now

Mister CDL Inc

Thonotosassa, FL

10.2 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

SAGE Truck Driving School at HCC Plant City/Tampa FL

Plant City, FL

22.1 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

FleetForce Truck Driver Training-New Port Richey

New Port Richey, FL

25.2 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Florida Truckers Institute, Inc.

New Port Richey, FL

26.7 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Fast-Pass Trucking Training

Spring Hill, FL

36.2 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

160 Driving Academy

Tampa, FL

3.2 miles away

1ST Class CDL Truck Training

Tampa, FL

3.3 miles away

CDL Training of Tampa

Tampa, FL

5.9 miles away

Tampa Truck Driving School

Tampa, FL

5.9 miles away

Roadmaster Drivers School (TPA)

Tampa, FL

6 miles away

160 Driving Academy

Tampa, FL

7.4 miles away

Commercial Vehicle Driving Program - PTC

St. Petersburg, FL

18.9 miles away

Champion Truck Driving School

Largo, FL

19.4 miles away

Snteov inc

Largo, FL

21.7 miles away

Florida Big Rig Academy

Mulberry, FL

28.3 miles away

Career Tech LLC

LAKELAND, FL

29.3 miles away

JD CDL INC

Lakeland, FL

31.7 miles away

FleetForce Truck Driver Training-Bradenton

Bradenton, FL

32.8 miles away

South Florida State College

Bowling Green, FL

45.6 miles away

FleetForce Truck Driver Training-Winter Haven

Winter Haven, FL

49.7 miles away

CDL Training in Tampa, Florida

Tampa, Florida has 20 FMCSA-verified CDL training programs serving students in 2026. Florida's year-round construction boom and three major ports create constant CDL driver demand—plus no state income tax means drivers keep more earnings. The port logistics, construction & tourism sector creates high demand for qualified CDL holders, and major freight corridors such as I-95/I-75/Florida Turnpike connect new drivers to local, regional, and interstate opportunities. Average CDL driver salary in Florida is about $54,600 per year, with experienced drivers earning up to $78,000.

Why Get CDL Training Near Tampa?

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

CDL Training Costs in Florida

CDL training in Florida 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 Florida

Trucking Jobs Near Tampa

Get hired after you complete your CDL training

$45,000 - $75,000

Average annual salary for CDL drivers in Florida

2,500+

Open trucking positions in Florida

Top employers hiring near Tampa: 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 Tampa

Side-by-side comparison of top training programs

Filter:

⚙️ Transmission:

Showing 15 schools

School Name	City	Program Types	Key Features	Contact
160 Driving Academy FMCSA Verified	Tampa	Class AClass BHazmat		View Details
160 Driving Academy FMCSA Verified	Tampa	Class AClass BHazmat		View Details
1ST Class CDL Truck Training FMCSA Verified	Tampa	Class AClass BHazmatTanker	Manual Trans.Evening ClassesVA Approved	View Details
Career Tech LLC FMCSA Verified	LAKELAND	Class AClass BHazmatTanker	Evening Classes	View Details
CDL Training of Tampa FMCSA Verified	Tampa	Class A	Manual Trans.Evening Classes	View Details
Champion Truck Driving School FMCSA Verified	Largo	Class AClass BHazmat	Manual Trans.Weekend Classes	View Details
Commercial Vehicle Driving Program - PTC FMCSA Verified	St. Petersburg	Class AHazmatTanker	Weekend ClassesEvening Classes	View Details
Fast-Pass Trucking Training FMCSA Verified	Spring Hill	Class A	Manual Trans.Weekend Classes	View Details
FleetForce Truck Driver Training-Bradenton FMCSA Verified	Bradenton	Class AHazmatTanker	Manual Trans.Weekend Classes	View Details
FleetForce Truck Driver Training-New Port Richey FMCSA Verified	New Port Richey	Class A	Manual Trans.Weekend Classes	View Details
FleetForce Truck Driver Training-Winter Haven FMCSA Verified	Winter Haven	Class AClass BTanker	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesEvening Classes	View Details
Florida Big Rig Academy FMCSA Verified	Mulberry	Class AHazmat	Weekend ClassesVA Approved	View Details
Florida Truckers Institute, Inc. FMCSA Verified	New Port Richey	Class AClass B	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesEvening Classes	View Details
JD CDL INC FMCSA Verified	Lakeland	Class A	Manual Trans.Evening ClassesVA Approved	View Details
Mister CDL Inc FMCSA Verified	Thonotosassa	Class ATanker	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesEvening Classes	View Details

Tuition Costs in Tampa

Avg. Private School

$6,500

Avg. Public School

$3,200

Price Range

$2,800 - $7,500

Florida has many 'CDL Mills' – warn users about unaccredited schools.

Nearby Cities

Need Help Choosing?

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

Get Matched FREE

DOT Physicals Near Tampa

Required for your CDL medical card

GoHealth Urgent Care - South Tampa

8729 Wellness Blvd, Tampa

(941) 502-7929

4.3

$121-$180

Walk-ins OK

CVS MinuteClinic - Midtown Clearwater

8726 Medical Center Dr, Clearwater

(954) 242-5673

3.9

$69-$152

Express Urgent Care - South Clearwater

6472 Medical Center Dr, Clearwater

(727) 220-2158

3.8

$75-$154

Walk-ins OK

View All 33 Clinics in Tampa 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 & FLHSMV in Tampa

9550 W Linebaugh Ave, Tampa, FL 33626

(813) 264-3600

Schedule your CDL knowledge and road tests at the Tampa Driver License Office. CDL testing by appointment

Visit Tampa CDL FLHSMV

Frequently Asked Questions About CDL Training in Tampa

How long does CDL training take in Tampa?

CDL training programs in Tampa, FL 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 Florida?

CDL training costs in Florida 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 Tampa without quitting my job?

Yes, several CDL schools in the Tampa 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 Tampa 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 Florida?

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

Why is Florida good for new CDL drivers?

Florida offers several unique advantages for CDL drivers: no state income tax (higher take-home pay), year-round work with no seasonal slowdowns, three major ports (PortMiami, Port Everglades, JAXPORT) creating container hauling demand, constant construction creating flatbed/dump truck jobs, and tourism logistics requiring dedicated freight service. CDL drivers in Florida average $54,600/year, with port drivers earning up to $78,000.

What types of trucking jobs are available near Tampa?

The Tampa, FL area offers diverse trucking jobs: regional LTL freight along I-95/I-75, port drayage from Florida's major ports, construction hauling (Florida's building boom shows no signs of slowing), refrigerated transport for Florida's agriculture and food service industry, and tourism logistics supporting theme parks, resorts, and cruise lines. Many positions offer home-daily or home-weekly schedules.

This page lists FMCSA-verified CDL schools in Florida, including training programs in Tampa 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 Florida

📋

Guide

Tampa CDL Schools: Port Access, Tourism Logistics & Year-Round Work

Florida's Non-Stop Freight Economy Creates $70K+ Careers in Tampa

Quick Stats

Why Tampa Drivers Should Get Doubles/Triples Endorsement

Quick Facts: CDL Training in Tampa, FL

How should students compare CDL schools in Tampa, FL?

20 CDL Schools Near Tampa

Top Picks in Tampa

Mister CDL Inc

SAGE Truck Driving School at HCC Plant City/Tampa FL

FleetForce Truck Driver Training-New Port Richey

Mister CDL Inc

SAGE Truck Driving School at HCC Plant City/Tampa FL

FleetForce Truck Driver Training-New Port Richey

Florida Truckers Institute, Inc.

Fast-Pass Trucking Training

160 Driving Academy

1ST Class CDL Truck Training

CDL Training of Tampa

Tampa Truck Driving School

Roadmaster Drivers School (TPA)

160 Driving Academy

Commercial Vehicle Driving Program - PTC

Champion Truck Driving School

Snteov inc

Florida Big Rig Academy

Career Tech LLC

JD CDL INC

FleetForce Truck Driver Training-Bradenton

South Florida State College

FleetForce Truck Driver Training-Winter Haven

CDL Training in Tampa, Florida

Why Get CDL Training Near Tampa?

CDL Training Costs in Florida

Trucking Jobs Near Tampa

Compare CDL Schools in Tampa

Tuition Costs in Tampa

Nearby Cities

Need Help Choosing?

More in Florida

DOT Physicals Near Tampa

GoHealth Urgent Care - South Tampa

CVS MinuteClinic - Midtown Clearwater

Express Urgent Care - South Clearwater

CDL Testing & FLHSMV in Tampa

Frequently Asked Questions About CDL Training in Tampa

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)

Related Resources