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 Galveston, TX?

CDL training in Galveston, TX 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 Galveston?

Most CDL training programs in Galveston 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 Galveston, TX?

Yes, several CDL schools in the Galveston 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 Galveston 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 33 verified training programs serving the Galveston, Texas area.

MANUAL TRANSMISSION

FMCSA VERIFIED 2025

OIL FIELD PREP

Top Galveston Truck Driving Schools: Manual & Hazmat Approved

Avoid the "E" Restriction. Train on a Manual 10-Speed in Galveston.

Get your Class A CDL in Galveston. Get qualified for Oil & Gas fleets with Hazmat and Manual transmission training. We've identified 33 FMCSA-verified programs in your area.

Quick Stats

33 Training Programs

Manual Transmission (10-Speed)

Hazmat / Tanker Prep

ELDT Compliant

3-8 Week Programs

Pop: 53,695

⚠️ Why Galveston Students Should Avoid Automatic-Only Schools

If you plan to work in the Texas Oil & Gas sector (especially near Galveston), getting an "Automatic-Only" CDL is a career mistake. Many local heavy-haul and tanker fleets require drivers to operate Manual Transmissions (10, 13, or 18-speed) for off-road and mud control. Don't limit your paycheck. Choose a Galveston school that offers "No Restriction" training to ensure you qualify for high-paying refinery, Halliburton, Schlumberger, or local Port Arthur/Beaumont gigs.

Manual Transmission (10-Speed)

Hazmat / Tanker Prep

Nights & Weekends

Quick Facts: CDL Training in Galveston, TX

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 Galveston, TX?

Students comparing CDL schools in Galveston, TX 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 33 training programsserving the Galveston area and is intended to help students request information without exposing private school contact data publicly.

33 CDL Schools Near Galveston

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Top Picks in Galveston

Editor's Choice

#1 Editor's ChoiceVerified

Fast-Pass Trucking Training

La Marque, TX

Call Now

#2 Editor's ChoiceVerified

Fast-Pass Trucking Training

South Houston, TX

Call Now

#3 Editor's ChoiceVerified

PAN AMERICA Trucking Academy

Channelview, TX

Call Now

Fast-Pass Trucking Training

La Marque, TX

11.2 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Fast-Pass Trucking Training

South Houston, TX

35.9 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

PAN AMERICA Trucking Academy

Channelview, TX

38.3 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Sage Truck Driving Schools- Houston East

Jacinto City, TX

41.9 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

CDL future trucking academy (Crosby BTW training)

Crosby, TX

43.9 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

CDL future Success LLC

Crosby, TX

43.9 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

160 Driving Academy - Houston - Yard

Houston, TX

44.4 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verifiedclass_a_theoryclass_a_behind_the_wheel_rangeclass_a_behind_the_wheel_public_road

Ancora at Galveston College

Galveston, TX

1.3 miles away

Industrial Safety Academy

Houston, TX

24.8 miles away

A/vin Community College

Alvin, TX

27.4 miles away

Alvin Community College

Alvin, TX

27.4 miles away

LFS Elite Trucking Academy

ALVIN, TX

29.3 miles away

FleetForce Truck Driver Training-San Jacinto

Pasadena, TX

31.5 miles away

San Jacinto College

Pasadena, TX

31.5 miles away

160 Driving Academy - Baytown - Classroom

Baytown, TX

32 miles away

Greedy Hauling Training Center

Pasadena, TX

36.5 miles away

CDL TRAINING TEXAS

PASADENA, TX

36.7 miles away

dba Sage Truck Driving Schools - Houston S

Houston, TX

37.3 miles away

KCD TRAINING CDL

HOUSTON, TX

38.3 miles away

Platinum Driving Academy at Angleton, TX

Angleton, TX

39 miles away

Showing 20 of 33 schools

CDL Training in Galveston, Texas

Galveston, Texas has 33 FMCSA-verified CDL training programs serving students in 2026. Texas moves more freight than any other state, with I-35 serving as the primary NAFTA trade route from Mexico to Canada. The energy, agriculture & cross-border trade sector creates critical demand for qualified CDL holders, and major freight corridors such as I-35/I-10/I-20 NAFTA corridors connect new drivers to local, regional, and interstate opportunities. Average CDL driver salary in Texas is about $56,800 per year, with experienced drivers earning up to $85,000.

Why Get CDL Training Near Galveston?

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

CDL Training Costs in Texas

CDL training in Texas 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 Texas

Trucking Jobs Near Galveston

Get hired after you complete your CDL training

$45,000 - $75,000

Average annual salary for CDL drivers in Texas

2,500+

Open trucking positions in Texas

Top employers hiring near Galveston: 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 Galveston

Side-by-side comparison of top training programs

Filter:

⚙️ Transmission:

Showing 15 schools

School Name	City	Program Types	Key Features	Contact
160 Driving Academy - Baytown - Classroom FMCSA Verified	Baytown	Class A	Manual Trans.Evening ClassesVA Approved	View Details
160 Driving Academy - Houston - Classroom FMCSA Verified	Houston	Class AClass BHazmat	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesEvening Classes	View Details
160 Driving Academy - Houston - Yard FMCSA Verified	Houston	Class AClass BHazmatTanker	Manual Trans.	View Details
160 Driving Academy - Pearland - Classroom and Yard FMCSA Verified	Houston	Class AClass BHazmatTanker	Weekend ClassesEvening Classes	View Details
A/vin Community College FMCSA Verified	Alvin	Class AHazmat	Evening Classes	View Details
Alvin Community College FMCSA Verified	Alvin	Class AClass B	Manual Trans.Weekend Classes	View Details
Ancora at Galveston College FMCSA Verified	Galveston	Class AClass BHazmatTanker	Manual Trans.VA Approved	View Details
Best Economical Student Training/ Driving FMCSA Verified	Houston	Class AClass B	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesEvening ClassesVA Approved	View Details
Break It Down CDL Training FMCSA Verified	Missouri City	Class AClass BHazmatTanker	Manual Trans.Evening ClassesVA Approved	View Details
CDL EXPRESS FMCSA Verified	Houston	Class AClass B	Manual Trans.Evening ClassesVA Approved	View Details
CDL future Success LLC FMCSA Verified	Crosby	Class ATanker	Weekend ClassesEvening Classes	View Details
CDL future trucking academy (Crosby BTW training) FMCSA Verified	Crosby	Class AClass B	Weekend ClassesEvening ClassesVA Approved	View Details
CDL TRAINING TEXAS FMCSA Verified	PASADENA	Class ATanker	Manual Trans.Weekend Classes	View Details
dba Sage Truck Driving Schools - Houston S FMCSA Verified	Houston	Class AClass B	Manual Trans.VA Approved	View Details
Fast-Pass Trucking Training FMCSA Verified	La Marque	Class AClass B	Weekend ClassesEvening ClassesVA Approved	View Details

Tuition Costs in Galveston

Avg. Private School

$6,995

Avg. Public School

$3,500

Price Range

$2,500 - $8,000

High competition in Dallas/Houston drives prices down slightly.

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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CDL Testing & DPS in Galveston

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

Find DPS Office

Oil Field Prep Training in Other Texas Cities

Explore CDL schools with oil field prep and hazmat / tanker training in nearby Texas cities.

Manual Transmission (10-Speed)

Hazmat / Tanker Prep

Nights & Weekends

View All Texas CDL Schools

Frequently Asked Questions About CDL Training in Galveston

How long does CDL training take in Galveston?

CDL training programs in Galveston, TX 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 Texas?

CDL training costs in Texas 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 Galveston without quitting my job?

Yes, several CDL schools in the Galveston 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 Galveston 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 Texas?

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

Is Texas a good state to start a CDL career?

Texas is one of the best states for new CDL drivers. It moves more freight than any other state, I-35 is the primary NAFTA trade corridor, and the energy sector (Permian Basin, Gulf Coast refineries) creates year-round demand for hazmat and tanker drivers. Texas CDL drivers average $56,800/year with experienced oil field haulers earning $85,000+. Texas also has no state income tax, meaning higher take-home pay.

What CDL endorsements pay the most in Texas?

In Texas, the highest-paying CDL endorsements are: Hazmat + Tanker (HN combination) for refinery and chemical hauling along the Gulf Coast ($70K-$85K), X endorsement for oversized loads in the oil fields ($65K-$80K), and TWIC card for Port of Houston container drayage ($60K-$75K). Many Galveston CDL schools offer endorsement training bundled with Class A programs.

This page lists FMCSA-verified CDL schools in Texas, including training programs in Galveston and surrounding cities. All listed programs meet Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) requirements.

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