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 Opelousas, LA?

CDL training in Opelousas, LA 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 Opelousas?

Most CDL training programs in Opelousas 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 Opelousas, LA?

Yes, several CDL schools in the Opelousas 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 Opelousas 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 Opelousas, Louisiana area.

FMCSA VERIFIED 2025

CDL Schools in Opelousas, LA

Are you looking for commercial driver training in Opelousas?We have identified 20 FMCSA-verified programs serving the Opelousas area (Pop: 16,330).

Quick Stats

20 Training Programs

ELDT Compliant

3-8 Week Programs

Pop: 16,330

Quick Facts: CDL Training in Opelousas, LA

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 Opelousas, LA?

Students comparing CDL schools in Opelousas, LA 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 Opelousas area and is intended to help students request information without exposing private school contact data publicly.

20 CDL Schools Near Opelousas

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Top Picks in Opelousas

Editor's Choice

#1 Editor's ChoiceVerified

Total Instruction Driving Academy

Mamou, LA

Call Now

#2 Editor's ChoiceVerified

Saint Martin Parish School Board

St Martinville, LA

Call Now

#3 Editor's ChoiceVerified

College/abbeville

Abbeville, LA

Call Now

Total Instruction Driving Academy

Mamou, LA

21.2 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Saint Martin Parish School Board

St Martinville, LA

31.2 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

College/abbeville

Abbeville, LA

38.5 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Global Trucking Academy

Marksville, LA

40.9 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Global Trucking Academy LLC

Marksville, LA

41.4 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Allen Parish School board

Oberlin, LA

41.7 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

West Feliciana Parish School Board

St Francisville, LA

46.6 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

St. Mary Parish School Board

Centerville, LA

66.2 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

SLCC/Opelousas

opelousas, LA

0.2 miles away

Morine Trucking And Construction, Inc.

Opelousas, LA

1.1 miles away

J and L CDL Service LLC

Opelousas, LA

2.7 miles away

Coastal Truck Driving School -Opelousas

Opelousas, LA

7.3 miles away

College/Lafayette

Lafayette, LA

21.8 miles away

3V Trucking LLC

Lafayette, LA

22 miles away

SLCC/Crowley

Crowley, LA

29.3 miles away

SLCC New Iberia

New Iberia, LA

36.7 miles away

Jefferson Davis Parish School Board

Jennings, LA

40.4 miles away

Baton Rouge Community College

Port Allen, LA

49.7 miles away

CDL Training in Opelousas, Louisiana

Opelousas, Louisiana offers 20 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 Opelousas?

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

CDL Training Costs in Louisiana

CDL training in Louisiana 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 Louisiana

Trucking Jobs Near Opelousas

Get hired after you complete your CDL training

$45,000 - $75,000

Average annual salary for CDL drivers in Louisiana

2,500+

Open trucking positions in Louisiana

Top employers hiring near Opelousas: 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 Opelousas

Side-by-side comparison of top training programs

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⚙️ Transmission:

Showing 15 schools

School Name	City	Program Types	Key Features	Contact
3V Trucking LLC FMCSA Verified	Lafayette	Class AHazmatTanker	Manual Trans.VA Approved	View Details
Allen Parish School board FMCSA Verified	Oberlin	Class ATanker	Manual Trans.	View Details
Baton Rouge Community College FMCSA Verified	Port Allen	Class AClass BTanker	Manual Trans.Evening ClassesVA Approved	View Details
Coastal Truck Driving School -Opelousas FMCSA Verified	Opelousas	Class AClass B	Manual Trans.VA Approved	View Details
College/abbeville FMCSA Verified	Abbeville	Class AClass B	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesVA Approved	View Details
College/Lafayette FMCSA Verified	Lafayette	Class AClass BTanker	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesVA Approved	View Details
Global Trucking Academy FMCSA Verified	Marksville	Class AClass BHazmatTanker	Manual Trans.Evening Classes	View Details
Global Trucking Academy LLC FMCSA Verified	Marksville	Class AClass BTanker		View Details
J and L CDL Service LLC FMCSA Verified	Opelousas	Class AClass BHazmat	Evening Classes	View Details
Jefferson Davis Parish School Board FMCSA Verified	Jennings	Class AHazmat	Weekend ClassesVA Approved	View Details
Morine Trucking And Construction, Inc. FMCSA Verified	Opelousas	Class AClass B		View Details
Saint Martin Parish School Board FMCSA Verified	St Martinville	Class AClass B	Manual Trans.Evening Classes	View Details
SLCC New Iberia FMCSA Verified	New Iberia	Class AClass B	Manual Trans.VA Approved	View Details
SLCC/Crowley FMCSA Verified	Crowley	Class AClass B	Manual Trans.Evening ClassesVA Approved	View Details
SLCC/Opelousas FMCSA Verified	opelousas	Class AClass BTanker	Manual Trans.Weekend Classes	View Details

Tuition Costs in Opelousas

Avg. Private School

$5,400

Avg. Public School

$3,400

Price Range

$2,900 - $6,800

Oil and gas industry drives specialty hauling demand.

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DOT Physicals Near Opelousas

Required for your CDL medical card

NextCare Urgent Care - Midtown Lafayette

8836 Health Plaza, Lafayette

(985) 501-8489

4.9

$72-$134

Walk-ins OK

CityMD - Lafayette

9796 Main St, Lafayette

(504) 230-9553

4.4

$107-$175

Walk-ins OK

CareNow Urgent Care - East Lafayette

5322 Second St, Lafayette

(504) 101-3497

4.4

$78-$166

Walk-ins OK

View All 6 Clinics in Opelousas 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 & OMV in Opelousas

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

Find OMV Office

Frequently Asked Questions About CDL Training in Opelousas

How long does CDL training take in Opelousas?

CDL training programs in Opelousas, LA 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 Louisiana?

CDL training costs in Louisiana 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 Opelousas without quitting my job?

Yes, several CDL schools in the Opelousas 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 Opelousas 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 Louisiana?

Yes, several funding options exist for CDL training in Louisiana: 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 Opelousas?

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

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 Opelousas 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 Louisiana, including training programs in Opelousas 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 Louisiana

📋

Guide

CDL Schools in Opelousas, LA

Quick Stats

Quick Facts: CDL Training in Opelousas, LA

How should students compare CDL schools in Opelousas, LA?

20 CDL Schools Near Opelousas

Top Picks in Opelousas

Total Instruction Driving Academy

Saint Martin Parish School Board

College/abbeville

Total Instruction Driving Academy

Saint Martin Parish School Board

College/abbeville

Global Trucking Academy

Global Trucking Academy LLC

Allen Parish School board

West Feliciana Parish School Board

St. Mary Parish School Board

SLCC/Opelousas

Morine Trucking And Construction, Inc.

J and L CDL Service LLC

Coastal Truck Driving School -Opelousas

College/Lafayette

3V Trucking LLC

SLCC/Crowley

SLCC New Iberia

Jefferson Davis Parish School Board

Baton Rouge Community College

CDL Training in Opelousas, Louisiana

Why Get CDL Training Near Opelousas?

CDL Training Costs in Louisiana

Trucking Jobs Near Opelousas

Compare CDL Schools in Opelousas

Tuition Costs in Opelousas

Nearby Cities

Need Help Choosing?

More in Louisiana

DOT Physicals Near Opelousas

NextCare Urgent Care - Midtown Lafayette

CityMD - Lafayette

CareNow Urgent Care - East Lafayette

CDL Testing & OMV in Opelousas

Frequently Asked Questions About CDL Training in Opelousas

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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