How Long Does It Take to Get a Class A CDL?

How long it takes to get a Class A CDL can vary greatly depending on the program you select. If you want to start working as a truck driver quickly, a full-time training program is your best bet.

But truck driving schools frequently offer options that can increase or reduce the time it takes you to finish your program. Which of those options you choose is up to you, depending on your needs.

What Factors Affect How Long CDL Training Takes?

Several factors determine how long your truck driver training should take, including whether you want full- or part-time classes, the amount of time you’re able to devote to practice, and how fast you can book your skills test appointment.

These timelines also depend on which school you choose. Many full-time CDL programs require 3-4 weeks to finish, while a part-time or weekend-only schedule can stretch to 8-12 weeks or longer.

While there are no federal mandates, most CDL programs require 160 hours of training: 40 in a classroom setting, and 120 behind the wheel of a truck.

Full-Time Class A CDL Training

Quick completion time is one of the main benefits of a full-time Class A program. You will complete your program faster and be eligible to start working as a truck driver sooner.

Full-time attendance means 8 hours daily, 5 days a week. But for people with existing work and family commitments, full-time training may come with challenges that lead them to choose a part-time program.

Part-Time and Weekend Programs

Part-time schedules offer evening or weekend classes, allowing you to complete your training at a slower pace that accommodates your work and life needs. A part-time program can meet in the evenings or over weekends. All of these programs cover the same 160-hour curriculum, just spread across a longer timeframe.

What to Expect During Your CDL Program

Once your CDL program begins, you’ll most likely follow a schedule like this:

Week 1: Classroom instruction, permit preparation, and safety regulations

Weeks 2 and 3: Yard maneuvers, pre-trip inspections, and basic vehicle control

Week 4: Road driving and test preparation

Classroom and Behind-the-Wheel Hours Required

Federal regulations don’t mandate minimum hours for theory or behind-the-wheel training, but training providers must cover all curriculum elements and verify proficiency. Most programs include approximately 40 hours of classroom instruction and 120 hours of road and range training.

Your Learning Pace and Driving Experience

Students learn at different speeds. New drivers may learn slowly. People with prior commercial vehicle experience will probably learn much faster. Many schools provide additional training beyond standard hours to give extra practice time.

Testing Availability in Your State

Testing schedules vary by location. Some schools offer on-site third-party testing, allowing you to take your CDL Skills test faster (and most likely on the same equipment you trained on).

Other schools require testing at state motor vehicle facilities, which means you are subject to their scheduling. At state DMV offices it’s not uncommon for driving test slots to be booked out for weeks in advance, which can delay how quickly you can get your CDL.

Adding Endorsements to Your CDL

Endorsements give you the ability to perform specialized driving tasks and run additional routes. Each endorsement requires some extra preparation and study, and requires passing an additional knowledge test.

The Hazardous Materials endorsement also requires a TSA background check, which can lead to delays. If you’re considering the Hazmat endorsement, consider beginning that check as you begin your CDL training.

What Else Can Delay Class A CDL Training?

Certain life circumstances can extend the time it takes to earn a CDL A, turning what could be a short process into one that stretches for several months. These are just a few factors that can get in the way.

Limited Availability for In-Truck Driving Hours

High-demand programs may have waiting lists that delay your start date. Limited access to training vehicles slows hands-on learning, whereas schools with larger fleets minimize these bottlenecks.

Failing Practice Tests or Skills Assessments

You can retake your CDL test up to 3 times with the same permit. After 3 failures, you must obtain a new learner’s permit and restart all tests. Some states impose a 3-day waiting period before retesting.

Missing Required DOT Physical or Documentation

It’s difficult to say how long it will take to get in for a DOT physical, so schedule yours as soon as possible. You must have your initial DOT exam completed before you can earn a Commercial Learner’s Permit.

Getting Your CDL Faster

The timeline for earning your Class A CDL depends largely on the choices you make before and during training. Smart decisions from Day One can cut weeks off your path to a new career. Here are a few ways you can get your commercial license a little faster or just prevent frustrating delays.

Study the CDL Manual Before You Enroll

Download your state’s CDL manual and focus on general knowledge, air brakes, and combination vehicles before classes start. Take online practice tests repeatedly until your scores stay consistently high. Some truck driving schools in NC, SC, and Georgia help you obtain your permit during training, but studying early lets you focus on developing your driving skills.

Find Extra Practice Opportunities

Many schools allow students to get as much in-truck time as they need. By completing your hours sooner, you can complete your program faster. Take advantage of opportunities for extra time in the truck, and work on your driving hours whenever you have the opportunity.

Schedule Your Skills Test Early

You must wait 14 days after receiving your Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) before taking the skills test. Schedule your appointment immediately when this waiting period ends, especially if you’re testing at your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles. They often have limited availability for CDL skills testing, which can cause frustrating delays.

Schools that have on-site testing eliminate the delays that come with trying to book appointments at busy state testing facilities. If your school has on-site testing, consider it a bonus.

Preparing for the CDL Skills Test

The CDL skills test evaluates 3 areas: pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and road driving. Your CLP allows legal practice with a licensed CDL driver in the front seat. Practice and master all maneuvers covered in your state’s CDL handbook before scheduling your skills test.

Start a Truck Driving Career at Your Pace

Your CDL training timeline depends on schedule, permit preparation, and testing availability. For students looking to get a CDL as fast as they can, choose a full-time program, prepare your permit materials early, and set up testing promptly to get a job as a truck driver faster.

If you prefer to get your commercial license at a slower pace or need to work while you train, you can select an evening or weekend program. You can choose to get your training at the pace that works best for you, setting you up for success in truck driving.

FAQs

What is the fastest way to obtain a Class A CDL and begin working as a truck driver?

The quickest path to get a CDL is through a full-time training program, which typically takes 3 to 4 weeks to complete. These intensive programs involve daily instruction and hands-on practice, allowing you to finish much faster than part-time or weekend options that can extend to several months.

Should I get a Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) before starting a Class A CDL program?

In most cases, no. CDL schools routinely help students get a CLP at the start of their program. Not having a CLP should not delay your CDL training.

Is getting a Class A CDL difficult?

While obtaining a CDL presents challenges like any new skill, it’s manageable with proper training and preparation. Modern truck driving schools provide structured programs with classroom instruction, behind-the-wheel practice, and test preparation that make the process more accessible than ever before.

How long do I have to wait after getting my permit to take the CDL exam?

You must wait a minimum of 14 days after receiving your commercial learner’s permit (CLP) before you’re eligible to take the CDL skills test. It’s advisable to schedule your skills test appointment immediately after this waiting period expires to avoid additional delays.