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 Tupelo, MS?

CDL training in Tupelo, MS 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 Tupelo?

Most CDL training programs in Tupelo 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 Tupelo, MS?

Yes, several CDL schools in the Tupelo 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 Tupelo 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 17 verified training programs serving the Tupelo, Mississippi area.

FMCSA VERIFIED 2025

CDL Schools in Tupelo, MS

Are you looking for commercial driver training in Tupelo?We have identified 17 FMCSA-verified programs serving the Tupelo area (Pop: 38,206).

Quick Stats

17 Training Programs

ELDT Compliant

3-8 Week Programs

Pop: 38,206

Quick Facts: CDL Training in Tupelo, MS

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 Tupelo, MS?

Students comparing CDL schools in Tupelo, MS 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 17 training programsserving the Tupelo area and is intended to help students request information without exposing private school contact data publicly.

17 CDL Schools Near Tupelo

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Top Picks in Tupelo

Editor's Choice

#1 Editor's ChoiceVerified

Saltillo High School

Saltillo, MS

Call Now

#2 Editor's ChoiceVerified

Union County School District

Blue Springs, MS

Call Now

#3 Editor's ChoiceVerified

Pontotoc City School District

Pontotoc, MS

Call Now

Saltillo High School

Saltillo, MS

9.3 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Union County School District

Blue Springs, MS

13.9 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Pontotoc City School District

Pontotoc, MS

16.8 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Pontotoc City Schools

Pontotoc, MS

17.2 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

New Albany Schools

New Albany, MS

22.9 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

LWP Driver Training

New Albany, MS

23.1 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Northeast MS Community College

Booneville, MS

31.3 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Mississippi Truck Driving School

Hickory Flat, MS

37 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Dodson Training Institute

Hamilton, MS

41.1 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Tishomingo County School District

Iuka, MS

48.1 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

CDL Guy

Tupelo, MS

2.1 miles away

Itawamba Community College

Tupelo, MS

2.1 miles away

Cooley Transport Inc.

Tupelo, MS

3.6 miles away

Tupelo Public School District

TUPELO, MS

4.1 miles away

Oxford School District Transportation

Oxford, MS

47.4 miles away

CDL Training in Tupelo, Mississippi

Tupelo, Mississippi offers 17 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 Tupelo?

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

CDL Training Costs in Mississippi

CDL training in Mississippi 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 Mississippi

Trucking Jobs Near Tupelo

Get hired after you complete your CDL training

$45,000 - $75,000

Average annual salary for CDL drivers in Mississippi

2,500+

Open trucking positions in Mississippi

Top employers hiring near Tupelo: 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 Tupelo

Side-by-side comparison of top training programs

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⚙️ Transmission:

Showing 15 schools

School Name	City	Program Types	Key Features	Contact
CDL Guy FMCSA Verified	Tupelo	Class AHazmatTanker	Manual Trans.Evening Classes	View Details
Cooley Transport Inc. FMCSA Verified	Tupelo	Class ATanker	Manual Trans.Weekend Classes	View Details
Dodson Training Institute FMCSA Verified	Hamilton	Class AClass BTanker	Weekend Classes	View Details
Hebron Christian School FMCSA Verified	Pheba	Class ATanker		View Details
Hebron School FMCSA Verified	Pheba	Class A	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesVA Approved	View Details
Itawamba Community College FMCSA Verified	Tupelo	Class AHazmat	Manual Trans.VA Approved	View Details
LWP Driver Training FMCSA Verified	New Albany	Class AHazmat	Weekend ClassesVA Approved	View Details
Mississippi Truck Driving School FMCSA Verified	Hickory Flat	Class ATanker	Manual Trans.Evening Classes	View Details
New Albany Schools FMCSA Verified	New Albany	Class ATanker	VA Approved	View Details
Northeast MS Community College FMCSA Verified	Booneville	Class AHazmat	Weekend ClassesVA Approved	View Details
Oxford School District Transportation FMCSA Verified	Oxford	Class A	Weekend ClassesEvening Classes	View Details
Pontotoc City School District FMCSA Verified	Pontotoc	Class AClass B	Weekend ClassesEvening Classes	View Details
Pontotoc City Schools FMCSA Verified	Pontotoc	Class A	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesEvening ClassesVA Approved	View Details
Saltillo High School FMCSA Verified	Saltillo	Class AClass BHazmatTanker	Manual Trans.VA Approved	View Details
Tishomingo County School District FMCSA Verified	Iuka	Class AClass BHazmatTanker	Weekend ClassesEvening ClassesVA Approved	View Details

Tuition Costs in Tupelo

Avg. Private School

$4,800

Avg. Public School

$3,100

Price Range

$2,700 - $6,000

Lower cost of living keeps prices down.

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 Tupelo

Required for your CDL medical card

North Mississippi Urgent Care

830 S Gloster St, Tupelo

(662) 377-3000

4.2

$70-$135

Walk-ins OK

Patient First - Midtown Tupelo

6094 Medical Park Way, Tupelo

(601) 529-4230

4.9

$57-$133

Walk-ins OK

NextCare Urgent Care - Downtown Tupelo

4002 Clinic Way, Tupelo

(601) 812-4201

4.6

$65-$129

View All 3 Clinics in Tupelo 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 & DPS in Tupelo

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

Find DPS Office

Frequently Asked Questions About CDL Training in Tupelo

How long does CDL training take in Tupelo?

CDL training programs in Tupelo, MS 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 Mississippi?

CDL training costs in Mississippi 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 Tupelo without quitting my job?

Yes, several CDL schools in the Tupelo 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 Tupelo 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 Mississippi?

Yes, several funding options exist for CDL training in Mississippi: 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 Tupelo?

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

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 Tupelo 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 Mississippi, including training programs in Tupelo 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 Mississippi

📋

Guide

CDL Schools in Tupelo, MS

Quick Stats

Quick Facts: CDL Training in Tupelo, MS

How should students compare CDL schools in Tupelo, MS?

17 CDL Schools Near Tupelo

Top Picks in Tupelo

Saltillo High School

Union County School District

Pontotoc City School District

Saltillo High School

Union County School District

Pontotoc City School District

Pontotoc City Schools

New Albany Schools

LWP Driver Training

Northeast MS Community College

Mississippi Truck Driving School

Dodson Training Institute

Tishomingo County School District

CDL Guy

Itawamba Community College

Cooley Transport Inc.

Tupelo Public School District

Oxford School District Transportation

CDL Training in Tupelo, Mississippi

Why Get CDL Training Near Tupelo?

CDL Training Costs in Mississippi

Trucking Jobs Near Tupelo

Compare CDL Schools in Tupelo

Tuition Costs in Tupelo

Nearby Cities

Need Help Choosing?

More in Mississippi

DOT Physicals Near Tupelo

North Mississippi Urgent Care

Patient First - Midtown Tupelo

NextCare Urgent Care - Downtown Tupelo

CDL Testing & DPS in Tupelo

Frequently Asked Questions About CDL Training in Tupelo

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