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 Portland, MI?

CDL training in Portland, MI 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 Portland?

Most CDL training programs in Portland 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 Portland, MI?

Yes, several CDL schools in the Portland 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 Portland 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 37 verified training programs serving the Portland, Michigan area.

FMCSA VERIFIED 2025

CDL Schools in Portland, MI

Are you looking for commercial driver training in Portland?We have identified 37 FMCSA-verified programs serving the Portland area (Pop: 652,503).

Quick Stats

37 Training Programs

ELDT Compliant

3-8 Week Programs

Pop: 652,503

Quick Facts: CDL Training in Portland, MI

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 Portland, MI?

Students comparing CDL schools in Portland, MI 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 37 training programsserving the Portland area and is intended to help students request information without exposing private school contact data publicly.

37 CDL Schools Near Portland

Filter Results:

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Top Picks in Portland

Editor's Choice

#1 Editor's ChoiceVerified

Fowler Public Schools-METS

Fowler, MI

Call Now

#2 Editor's ChoiceVerified

Carson City Crystal Area school

Carson City, MI

Call Now

#3 Editor's ChoiceVerified

Pupil Transportation Operation and Management Institute

Lansing, MI

Call Now

Fowler Public Schools-METS

Fowler, MI

1.5 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Carson City Crystal Area school

Carson City, MI

14.7 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Pupil Transportation Operation and Management Institute

Lansing, MI

15.7 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Waverly Community Schools

Lansing, MI

18.6 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Ashley Community Schools-METS

Ashley, MI

19.1 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

1st Premier Trucking Academy

Portland, MI

19.2 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verifiedclass_a_theoryclass_a_behind_the_wheel_rangeclass_a_behind_the_wheel_public_roadclass_b_theory

Brian Tackett - Independent Instructor

Portland, MI

19.2 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verifiedclass_a_theoryclass_a_behind_the_wheel_rangeclass_a_behind_the_wheel_public_roadclass_b_theory

ABC Training and Testing

Portland, MI

19.2 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verifiedclass_a_behind_the_wheel_rangeclass_a_behind_the_wheel_public_roadclass_b_behind_the_wheel_rangeclass_b_behind_the_wheel_public_road

Michigan state university

East Lansing, MI

21.5 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Ithaca Public Schools

Ithaca, MI

23.2 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

JJFreight Training Center LLC

Lansing, MI

24 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Humphrey's Driver Training and Testing

Owosso, MI

26.2 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Mason Public Schools

Mason, MI

29.9 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Maple Valley Schools-METS

Vermontville, MI

30.6 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Lowell Area Schools

Lowell, MI

32.1 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Hastings public school

Hastings, MI

37 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Montabella Community Schools

Blanchard, MI

37.5 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

New Lothrop Area Public Schools - Mark Wakefield

New Lothrop, MI

38.8 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Fowlerville Community Schools

Fowlerville, MI

39.5 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Springport Public School

Springport, MI

41.6 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Showing 20 of 33 schools

CDL Training in Portland, Michigan

Portland, Michigan offers 37 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 Portland?

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

CDL Training Costs in Michigan

CDL training in Michigan 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 Michigan

Trucking Jobs Near Portland

Get hired after you complete your CDL training

$45,000 - $75,000

Average annual salary for CDL drivers in Michigan

2,500+

Open trucking positions in Michigan

Top employers hiring near Portland: 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 Portland

Side-by-side comparison of top training programs

Filter:

⚙️ Transmission:

Showing 15 schools

School Name	City	Program Types	Key Features	Contact
160 Driving Academy - Grand Rapids Classroom FMCSA Verified	Kentwood	Class AHazmat	VA Approved	View Details
160 Driving Academy - Grand Rapids Yard FMCSA Verified	Kentwood	Class AHazmatTanker	Manual Trans.Evening Classes	View Details
1st Premier Trucking Academy FMCSA Verified		Class ATanker	Manual Trans.Evening ClassesVA Approved	View Details
ABC Training and Testing FMCSA Verified		Class AHazmat	Weekend Classes	View Details
Ashley Community Schools-METS FMCSA Verified	Ashley	Class A	VA Approved	View Details
Breckenridge Community Schools FMCSA Verified	Breckenridge	Class AClass B	Weekend ClassesEvening Classes	View Details
Brian Tackett - Independent Instructor FMCSA Verified		Class A	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesEvening Classes	View Details
Caledonia Community Schools FMCSA Verified	Caledonia	Class AClass BHazmatTanker	Manual Trans.Evening ClassesVA Approved	View Details
Carson City Crystal Area school FMCSA Verified	Carson City	Class AClass BHazmatTanker	Weekend ClassesVA Approved	View Details
Compass Coach CDL School FMCSA Verified	Cedar Springs	Class AClass BHazmatTanker	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesEvening ClassesVA Approved	View Details
Delton Kellogg Schools FMCSA Verified	Delton	Class AClass BHazmat	Manual Trans.Evening ClassesVA Approved	View Details
FCG Truck Driver Training, Inc. FMCSA Verified	Byron Center	Class A	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesVA Approved	View Details
Fowler Public Schools-METS FMCSA Verified	Fowler	Class AClass B	Manual Trans.Evening Classes	View Details
Fowlerville Community Schools FMCSA Verified	Fowlerville	Class AClass BHazmat	Weekend ClassesEvening Classes	View Details
Hastings public school FMCSA Verified	Hastings	Class ATanker	Manual Trans.Weekend Classes	View Details

Tuition Costs in Portland

Avg. Private School

$5,400

Avg. Public School

$3,600

Price Range

$3,000 - $6,800

Manufacturing state with steady trucking demand.

Nearby Cities

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DOT Physicals Near Portland

Required for your CDL medical card

Concentra Urgent Care

3950 S Creyts Rd, Lansing

(517) 321-5511

3.9

$75-$125

Walk-ins OK

DOT Exams Now - Downtown Lansing

8246 Medical Center Dr, Lansing

(616) 333-4165

4.8

$114-$190

Walk-ins OK

GoHealth Urgent Care - Lansing

4201 Commerce Blvd, Lansing

(586) 284-2170

4.4

$81-$127

Walk-ins OK

View All 9 Clinics in Portland 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 & Secretary of State in Portland

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

Find Secretary of State Office

Frequently Asked Questions About CDL Training in Portland

How long does CDL training take in Portland?

CDL training programs in Portland, MI 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 Michigan?

CDL training costs in Michigan 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 Portland without quitting my job?

Yes, several CDL schools in the Portland 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 Portland 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 Michigan?

Yes, several funding options exist for CDL training in Michigan: 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 Portland?

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

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 Portland 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 Michigan, including training programs in Portland 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 Michigan

📋

Guide

CDL Schools in Portland, MI

Quick Stats

Quick Facts: CDL Training in Portland, MI

How should students compare CDL schools in Portland, MI?

37 CDL Schools Near Portland

Top Picks in Portland

Fowler Public Schools-METS

Carson City Crystal Area school

Pupil Transportation Operation and Management Institute

Fowler Public Schools-METS

Carson City Crystal Area school

Pupil Transportation Operation and Management Institute

Waverly Community Schools

Ashley Community Schools-METS

1st Premier Trucking Academy

Brian Tackett - Independent Instructor

ABC Training and Testing

Michigan state university

Ithaca Public Schools

JJFreight Training Center LLC

Humphrey's Driver Training and Testing

Mason Public Schools

Maple Valley Schools-METS

Lowell Area Schools

Hastings public school

Montabella Community Schools

New Lothrop Area Public Schools - Mark Wakefield

Fowlerville Community Schools

Springport Public School

CDL Training in Portland, Michigan

Why Get CDL Training Near Portland?

CDL Training Costs in Michigan

Trucking Jobs Near Portland

Compare CDL Schools in Portland

Tuition Costs in Portland

Nearby Cities

Need Help Choosing?

More in Michigan

DOT Physicals Near Portland

Concentra Urgent Care

DOT Exams Now - Downtown Lansing

GoHealth Urgent Care - Lansing

CDL Testing & Secretary of State in Portland

Frequently Asked Questions About CDL Training in Portland

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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