Want to start your trucking career in Iowa without breaking the bank? Paid CDL training in Iowa is perfect for you. Companies like TMC Transportation, Schneider, CRST, and more have excellent training programs you can attend while getting paid. In these programs, all the upfront costs are partly or completely covered, supporting you a step closer to your lucrative career in trucking without any financial burden. Check out all your top options with detailed benefits and requirements with our comprehensive post below. Scroll down for more!
The 5 paid CDL training programs in Iowa
Here are some highly recommended companies you can consider when looking for paid CDL training in Iowa:
1. CRST Truck School
CRST Trucking School, based in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, is one of the nation’s largest providers of CDL training and expedited freight services. Since being founded in 1955, the company has expanded from local freight operations into a large network that offers transcontinental coverage with team-oriented trucking. CRST is well known for training thousands of drivers every year under its paid CDL training programs, thereby placing individuals on a pathway to a thriving trucking career without any initial tuition costs.
Benefits
- Paid training and tuition:
- Paid 2-4 weeks of CDL training with no up-front tuition.
- Get paid for licensing, permit costs, and background check fees.
- Prepay tuition option ($2,500) with no contract and higher mileage rates.
- Paid transportation, accommodations, and dining:
- Free transport to training with payroll deduction for the costs.
- Lodging supplied with deductions capped ($40/week, $150/week in total cost).
- Breakfast and lunch during training provided by CRST.
- Earning and job guarantee:
- Earn 22 cents per mile split during on-the-road training.
- Earn 25 cents a mile split after graduation with raises every 6 months.
- 10 months of guaranteed employment, which essentially makes the training free.
- Full employee benefits package: medical, dental, vision, life insurance, and 401(k) available after 90 days.
- Vacation pay: 1 week after 1 year, 2 weeks after 2 years, 3 weeks after 10 years.
- Access to late model Freightliners and Volvos with e-logs (governed at 62-65 mph).
- Guaranteed scheduled home time.
Requirements
- Age: Must be 21 years of age or older.
- Licensing: Valid state driver’s license with at least 18 months of possession.
- Medical and safety requirements:
- Pass a DOT physical exam and drug test.
- Get a Hazmat endorsement within 60 days of the hire date.
- Physically and mentally fit for work, which involves long stretches away from home.
- Pass TSA background checks for Hazmat fingerprinting at orientation.
- Driving record:
- Clean driving record for the past 3 years. No open container offenses within the past 3 years.
- No drug/alcohol-related offenses within the last 5 years.
- No more than 1 drug/alcohol-related offense in the last 15 years.
- Criminal history reviewed case-by-case.
- No passengers or pets are allowed in your truck (team operations desirable).
2. TMC Transportation
Based in Des Moines, Iowa, TMC Transportation is an employee-owned company and industry leader in flatbed trucking, offering one of the most extensive paid CDL training programs in the United States. Since 1972, TMC has grown from a small operation into one of the premier flatbed carriers in the nation with operations coast to coast. The company is known for its cutting-edge training facilities and career-building opportunities, including an apprenticeship program certified by the Department of Labor.
Benefits
- Comprehensive paid training:
- Paid 8-week in-house CDL training for individuals with a Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP).
- Tuition reimbursement is up to $6,000 for those graduating from a private CDL school.
- Paid $500/week for orientation and OTR training.
- Paid lunches and lodging during training on TMS’s campus.
- Competitive earning:
- 40 cents per mile in your first year, annual earnings are between $55,000 to $70,000.
- Raises are given after your first year based on performance.
- Sign-on bonus: Depending on location and experience, drivers may receive up to $2,500.
- Employee stock ownership plan (ESOP): Drivers become eligible after 1 year to take part in TMC’s ESOP and earn an additional up to $12,000 yearly.
- Health and retirement benefits:
- United Healthcare coverage after 60 days ($28.85/week for single, $106.15/week for family).
- 401(k) plan with TMC contributions (20% after 180 days, fully vested after 5 years).
- Paid vacation.
- Modern equipment and work environment:
- Access to late-model black and chrome Peterbilt trucks which are equipped with Qualcomm mobile communication systems, GPS, and Direct TV.
- Trucks are governed at 62 mph, electronic logs, and safety features.
Requirements
- Minimum age is 23 years.
- Must be at least 3 years licensed driver in the United States.
- Citizenship and documentation:
- Must be a U.S. citizen or have valid authorization to work in the United States (Green Card).
- Must provide a valid United States passport or a certified copy of a birth certificate and a Social Security card.
- A 3-year home address history and a verifiable 10-year employment history are required.
- Driving record:
- No more than 3 moving violations within the last 3 years.
- No DUIs or DWIs in the last 10 years.
- Pass DOT medical and drug tests.
- Pass the criminal background check.
- Able to read, write, and speak proficient English.
- Able to perform essential job functions, including long periods away from home.
- Must commit to working one year for TMC in return for no tuition charges after training.
3. Schneider National
Schneider National is one of the largest and most respected trucking companies in the United States, offering a structured and accessible paid CDL training program. Boasting over 10,000 trucks with a reputation for treating drivers with great care, Schneider is an ideal platform for budding truck drivers to launch their careers.
Benefits
- Comprehensive training: Receive 160 hours of CDL training, comprising both classroom and behind-the-wheel training.
- Paid training:
- $4,800 tuition paid for trainees.
- $80 a day during the 3-week orientation.
- Competitive earnings:
- An annual starting salary of $45,000–$51,000, possibly over $71,000 after three years.
- Tanker drivers may earn as much as $79,500 per year.
- Full benefits package:
- Full medical, dental, and vision insurance after 90 days.
- 401(k) plan.
- Paid vacation.
- Additional benefits:
- $8,000 bonus to Van Team drivers.
- 75% of drivers enjoy weekly home time, while most of the intermodal drivers go home daily.
- Access to free parking, Wi-Fi, showers, and laundry.
- Discounts on cell phones, restaurants, and entertainment.
- Layover, detention, and performance pay for safe and efficient driving.
Requirements
- Be at least 21 years of age.
- Be a U.S. citizen or Green Card holder.
- Have a valid U.S. driver’s license for at least one year.
- Driving and criminal record:
- No DUIs or DWIs in the past five years.
- Clean driving and employment history.
- Criminal background considered on a case.
- Medical requirements:
- Pass DOT medical and drug tests.
- Must be able to be out for a minimum of seven days at a time.
4. Hirschbach Motor Lines
Hirschbach Motor Lines has been in the trucking business for over 85 years, providing an intensive paid CDL training program to equip new drivers for a successful driving career. Recognized for excellence and innovative transportation solutions, Hirschbach makes entry into the trucking profession smooth and seamless with no out-of-pocket training costs. Hirschbach’s CDL training program, based in Dubuque, IA, focuses on hands-on training and mentorship.
Benefits
- Paid training:
- Paid during your training.
- Earned free dinners while training.
- On-site classroom and practical training.
- Experience driving with a certified Hirschbach trainer.
- Transition into team driving for the final part of your training.
- Pay and incentives:
- Minimum weekly pay $1,350.
- Four-level progressive wage scale.
- Bonus incentives: tool stipends and wellness.
- Full benefits package:
- Comprehensive medical, dental, and 401(k) (with company match).
- Paid time off and doctor-on-demand services.
- Premium amenities in all trucks: TVs, Wi-Fi, Satellite Radio.
Requirements
- Must be at least 21 years old.
- Must be a U.S. citizen or be a permanent resident with valid authorization to work in the U.S.
- Must have a valid driver’s license with a clean driving record:
- No more than three moving violations or more than three preventable accidents in the last three years.
- No serious traffic offenses, including reckless driving or excessive speeding, within the last three years.
- No DUI/DWI convictions within the previous five years.
- Felony convictions are considered case-by-case.
- Health and safety requirements:
- Pass DOT medical examination and drug screening.
- Able to physically perform the demands of loading, unloading, and securing freight.
- Must be willing and able to complete the training program and related employment obligations with Hirschbach.
- Accept the Company’s safety and operational policies, including compliance with DOT regulations.
- Provide documentation:
- A valid Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) at the time of training start is preferred but not required.
- Proof of residence or work authorization documentation.
- A clean and verifiable three-year work history.
- Have a strong work ethic, willingness to learn, and ability to work in a team-oriented environment.
5. Heartland Express
Headquartered in North Liberty, Iowa, Heartland Express Heartland Express is a leader in the short- to medium-haul trucking segment that is dedicated to safety, efficiency, and driver satisfaction. Additionally, Heartland Express is proud to offer a wide-range, paid CDL apprenticeship to advance the truck driving career and help drivers obtain their Class A CDL. Trainees in this program will receive training on all facets of becoming a professional truck driver while receiving competitive pay through training.
Benefits
- No upfront costs: Heartland pays for your CDL training, making it accessible for all qualified candidates to attend.
- Earning during training:
- Earn $615 a week during the in-class training.
- Transition to $0.44 per mile during on-road training with a qualified trainer.
- Comprehensive training:
- Classroom instruction: Learn industry regulations, vehicle operations, and advanced technologies.
- On-road training: Complete 15,000 miles with a certified trainer and get hands-on experience in driving a commercial vehicle.
- Bonuses for employees include $0.05/mile for Green Zone drivers, $0.01-$0.03/mile for safety performance, and $0.01/mile for Hazmat endorsements.
- Health and retirement benefits:
- 401(k) match: Up to $2,000 per year.
- Comprehensive medical, dental, vision, and life insurance for individuals and families.
- Paid vacation and built-in wage increases for senior drivers.
- Premium facilities: Access to free showers, laundry facilities, food, and entertainment areas.
Requirements
- Be at least 21 years of age.
- Hold a valid U.S. driver’s license for at least 1 year from the date of application.
- Be a U.S. citizen or legally authorized to work in the United States (Green Card).
- Obtain a clean driving record:
- No DUI/DWI offenses within the previous 5 years.
- No more than 2 moving violations within the previous 3 years.
- No major at-fault accidents within the previous 5 years.
- Medical requirements:
- Pass DOT medical examination and drug screen test.
- Physical and mental fit to be on the road for weeks at a time as required by road assignments (up to 7 days or more).
- Commit to the program:
- Complete the Heartland Training Intitude’s Apprenticeship program.
- Commit to a minimum of 1 year of employment with Heartland Express after training.
- Repay training costs if employment is terminated before completing the 1-year commitment.
FAQs
1. What is the best-paid CDL training company in Iowa?
Several companies provide paid CDL training in Iowa, each comes with different benefits and requirements. We recommend you consider the five companies listed above for their excellent benefits and reasonable requirements. It is important to research specific benefits, such as training duration, pay rates, and employment commitments, to find the best fit for you.
2. Is paid CDL training in Iowa worth it?
Yes, paid CDL training in Iowa is well worth it for many up-and-coming truck drivers. The training involves practical experience and skills needed for a trucking driver. Moreover, companies often cover tuition costs, guarantee a job after completion, and offer numerous benefits, which make it a financially worthwhile option for those seeking to get into the trucking industry. With these attractive benefits, paid CDL training is a good place for entry-level truckers to enter a profession.
3. How does paid CDL training work in Iowa?
Paid CDL training in Iowa usually involves signing up with a program that a trucking company offers. The program can include classroom instruction, range training, and on-the-road experience. You get paid while training, either a weekly salary or per mile, and in some cases, the company will cover tuition costs upfront or reimburse you after employment. With this training and obtaining your CDL, you will typically be required to drive for the company for a certain period, usually 12 to 24 months-in return for the training and benefits provided.
Final thoughts
Paid CDL training in Iowa provides an excellent opportunity for beginning a rewarding career in the trucking industry. Sponsored by companies such as TMC Transportation, Schneider National, Heartland Express, and more, these programs help you earn while learning without upfront costs, offering structure, security, competitive pay, and a host of other benefit options. So, if you are ready for the first step into being a professional truck driver, a paid CDL training program in Iowa is a must consideration. Research options and choose the one that best suits your needs and career goals. Do not wait anymore. Begin today and drive into the future!
