How Long Is CDL School – The Detailed Answer Update

“How long is CDL school” is one of the most frequently asked questions when searching for time to get a CDL. The quick answer to this question is that you are expected to take about 3 to 6 weeks to complete a CDL training school. However, several factors determine the exact time it takes. In this article, we will walk you through these factors and break down the components of training, which help estimate your training time. Keep reading for more detailed information and schedule your time better.

What factors affect CDL school duration?

To estimate the duration of your CDL school, you should take these factors into account:

• Type of training program: CDL training can be available full-time and part-time. Full-time programs allow quicker completion as students can spend more hours per week in training.
• State requirements: Each state has a different set of regulations which can affect the length of CDL training. Some states may require additional hours or certain content to be added to their programs, thus increasing the length of the training school.
• Type of CDL: The Class of CDL you are targeting can also affect the training time. Class A training usually takes longer because the operations of bigger vehicles can take more time and skills.
• Personal learning pace: Personal capabilities and experience are also influencing factors in the duration of training. Some students can absorb the concept quickly while others take a little more time to develop their required knowledge and skills.

How long is CDL school?

The average time for CDL school is typically around 3 to 6 weeks, despite varying due to factors. Here is what you could anticipate for CDL training:

In-the-classroom training

In-the-classroom training is a critical component of CDL training school. While the FMCSA does not require a minimum theory classroom hours, some states, such as the Washington State Department of Licensing, set a minimum of 40-hour class instruction for all Classes of CDL, and an additional 4-20 hours for endorsement theory classrooms. The training school you choose must provide instruction covering all elements of the theory curriculum required by the Entry-Level Driver Training Curriculum, including the following:

• Pre-trip inspection: How to inspect your tractor-trailer before leaving the pairing lot, ensuring it is safe and legal to hit the road. To learn more about the knowledge covered in this section, check our post on the Pre-trip inspection checklist.
• Map reading/trip planning: How to plan a trip to avoid low clearances and routes that will not accommodate large vehicles.
• Logbook entry: How to comply with the regulations by the Department of Transportation along with student’s respective trucking company policies.
• Maintenance inspection: How to apply theoretical concepts in real-life situations.
• Rules and regulations: How to operate a commercial motor vehicle and various concepts.

The ELDT requires about 35 subjects of classroom training and a minimum 80% score on the theory assessment to qualify for the ELDT program certificate. Completing classroom theory will take approximately 2 weeks to 1 month, and depending on some factors, it may be shorter or longer.

Skills training

Skills training is the next major component of your CDL school. Since the FMCSA does not have an hourly requirement for CDL skills training courses, the ELDT does have a set of critical topics that must be covered in CDL courses, specifically street driving training, backing maneuver training, proficiency development, and combined lab training, range training, and observation.

Moreover, some states, such as Washington, also require minimum training hours. Here is an example of state-specific minimum hours for skills training, as required in Washington:

Depending on your state requirements, and your chosen training school, time for CDL school can vary. This can impact the total time to get a CDL, making the whole process shorter or longer.

To know more about the detailed estimation of time for getting a CDL, check our post on How long it takes to get a CDL. 

FAQs

1. How long are most CDL classes?

The length of a CDL class typically takes anywhere between 3 to 6 weeks. The exact duration depends on various factors:

• Program type: You choose to study full-time or part-time
• State requirements: Each state can have a specific minimum training hours. For example, Washington requires a total of 160 hours for Class A CDL training and 80 hours for Class B and C CDL training. 
• How long the school offers classes
• How fast you learn

2. How long are CDL classes in a day?

The length of CDL classes in a day depends on the training program which is whether a full-time or part-time course. For full-time CDL programs, daily classes usually last up to 8 hours a day. This intensive schedule comprises hours spent both in the classroom and practical driving, allowing students to finish their training in record time, often within 3 to 4 weeks. 

On the other hand, part-time programs are targeted at those individuals with other commitments and allow for only 4 to 5 hours of training per day. This makes it take longer to complete the entire program. Additionally, every school has its different way of apportioning the time between theory sessions, lab, and skills sessions, hence it is necessary to always cross-check the schedules that the concerned CDL training school issues to students. 

3. What is the fastest CDL training?

The fastest CDL training programs can be completed in as little as 3 weeks when schools offer accelerated courses to students who can commit to full-time study. These intensive programs include longer daily sessions to enable students to cover required areas more quickly. However, it is important to ensure fast-tracking does not compromise the quality of training. A well-designed program will remain focused on practical experiences and theory classes. 

4. What is the shortest CDL class?

The shortest CDL class, particularly for obtaining a Class C CDL which does not deal with large vehicle sizes and complexity as Class A, can be as short as 1 to 2 weeks. These training programs are usually designed for driving smaller commercial vehicles such as delivery trucks or buses. Even though the time can be condensed, students should make sure these programs cover all elements required by the ELDT and their states. 

Final thoughts

While the average duration of CDL school typically falls between 3 to 6 weeks, it can vary due to several factors from the type of programs, and state requirements to individual learning pace. The more you understand these controlling factors, the better you can calculate the training time and set your schedule. If you have any questions related to CDL training, feel free to leave a comment or contact us. We are always willing to help!