Why have to pay for upfront CDL training when you can get it for free? If you are an aspiring driver in Indiana, you are in luck! Several companies are offering paid CDL training in Indiana to kick-start your trucking career with zero costs. Some outstanding paid CDL training programs are sponsored by trucking companies such as Roehl, CR England, Carter Express, and many more. These programs will deliver financial freedom, allowing you to confidently hit the Indiana open road. Our post today lists the top companies in Indiana paying for CDL training, with comprehensive benefits and requirements. Keep reading to choose your suitable program!
What companies offer paid CDL training in Indiana?
The following are the best companies in Indiana offering paid CDL training, to help aspiring drivers obtain an Indiana CDL and kick-start their careers with ease:
1. Roehl Transport
If you’re looking for a reliable and rewarding way to start your trucking career in Indiana, Roehl Transport has you covered. Roehl Transport is one of the respected leaders within the trucking industry, providing one of the most comprehensive paid CDL training programs across the United States. With a conveniently located training facility in Gary, Indiana, Roehl Transport invests heavily in setting up aspiring truck drivers for success. The company designed the training program to make sure new drivers receive much more than the skills needed to pass their CDL exams, but a foundation to build a long-term trucking career.
Benefits
- Fast track training: This course puts you through classroom instructions, hands-on training, and on-road training all in a span of only weeks, so you can hit the roads as a full-time driver in no time.
- Immediate earnings: Trainees start earning from their very first day of employment. You will get a paycheck every week during your training, so you can keep your finances stable while learning.
- Job security: The starting pay for program graduates will be very competitive, ranging from $900 to $1,250 per week, with opportunities to make over $70,000 annually as their career progresses.
- Complete benefits: Everything from medical and dental to a tax-free 401(k) plan with profit sharing, Roehl can help you protect your future.
Requirements
- Age and commitment: You must be at least 21 years old and sign a written agreement to the program.
- Physical readiness: You should be physically fit for the job and then pass a state medical examination, drug screening, and background check.
- Contract obligation: This is an agreement to drive professionally with Roehl for 15 months.
2. CR England
C.R. England was founded in 1920, known as a leader in refrigerated transportation. With more than 100 years of operation. it has built a reputation among up-and-coming truck drivers as one of the best to join. Their paid CDL training, available at Burns Harbor, Indiana, provides a quick, easy road to your Class A CDL. With C.R. England’s guaranteed employment, full benefits, and solid support system, this program is for the individual committed to a long-term career as a truck driver.
Benefits
- Zero tuition costs: When you commit to driving with C.R. England, your tuition will be completely covered with no upfront tuition costs.
- Paid training:
- You will receive $430 per week throughout the first 15,000 miles of training.
- You can earn between $450 and $600 per week during the one-on-one, on-the-road training phase.
- Fast-track CDL: Get your Class A CDL in as little as 17 days by studying a focused, action-packed training program.
- Job placement: A driving position is guaranteed upon completion of the program, with a one-year commitment.
- Career growth and pay increase: Begin earning 26 cents per mile as a company driver, with annual raises up to 42 cents per mile.
- Comprehensive benefits package:
- Medical, dental, vision, and health insurance included
- 401(k) retirement savings plan eligibility after one year of employment.
- Additional earnings:
- $20 per stop for any intermediate stops en route from the pickup to the final delivery.
- $25 layover pay when delays exceed 48 hours and include motel accommodations after 72 hours.
- Modern equipment: Drive newer equipment with electronic logs.
Requirements
- Be at least 21 years of age
- Provide an original Social Security card and a valid U.S. passport if hauling freight to Canada.
- Have a satisfying driving and employment record:
- No more than 2 moving violations in the last 3 years
- No DUIs within the last 7 years or reckless driving violations.
- Be able to pass a DOT medical examination and drug test
- Mental and physical preparation to be away from home for at least 7 days consecutively during training and employment.
3. Carter Express
Carter Express was founded in 1983 with a focus on providing effective and prompt transportation while building a nurturing workplace for its employees. This company ensures unparalleled safety records along with numerous awards that include the Supplier in Excellence Award and the Best in Class Truckload/Milk Run Carrier Award. Ranked as one of the safest carriers in its class, Carter Express provides a superior paid CDL training program that assists new drivers in launching their trucking careers without financial stress. One of Carter Express’s training facilities is available in Anderson, Indiana.
Benefits
- Free tuition: Carter Express pays $4,400 tuition for a four-week CDL course at its partnered Indiana schools. The students just pay for their CDL permit.
- Paid orientation and training:
- Orientation: $350 for three days
- On-the-road training: $350 for the first week, and $400/week for weeks 2-6
- Job guarantee: You can be offered a job with promising opportunities and attractive benefits within a leading trucking company like Carter Express
- Competitive pay: Starting at 32.5 cents per mile.
- Home time: Drivers are guaranteed two days at home each week, with additional opportunities to be home during your five-day workweek.
- Personal bonus: 3% gross wages quarterly
- 401(k) with company match: Match of dollar for dollar on the first 2% and 50 cents on the dollar for the next 2%
- Benefits are eligible after 90 days of full-time employment
Requirements
- Must be at least 21 years of age
- Pass DOT physical and pre-employment drug test
- Maintain an acceptable motor vehicle record – MVR
- Have an acceptable criminal and work history record
- Obtain a HazMat endorsement within a certain timeframe after being hired and after obtaining a Class A CDL
4. PAM Transportation
PAM Transport is a large trucking company headquartered in Tontitown, Arkansas. Founded in 1980, PAM currently operates over 1,800 trucks and focuses on dry van transportation for a variety of industries including automotive, cosmetics, and paper. The carrier partners with Driver Solutions to provide a company-paid CDL training program for future drivers. This program covers the entirety of CDL training, offering a great entryway into the trucking industry.
Benefits
- Free CDL training: Tuition is valued at $5,995 with no out-of-pocket costs and no payroll deduction.
- Covered lodging: Enjoy covered lodging as part of our training package.
- Expert mentorship: On-the-road training with an experienced mentor-one-on-one.
- Weekly pay during training: Make $300-$350 a week while training on the road.
- Guaranteed employment: Obtain full-time driving with PAM Transport for at least a year.
- Starting pay: $0.26–$0.28/mile to start with increases every three months up to $0.34/mile in the first year.
- Comprehensive benefits: medical, dental, life insurance, and 401(k).
- Home time flexibility: Be home every 4–6 weeks with frequent opportunities for every 2 weeks.
- Career development: Possible eligibility for regional or dedicated runs within 6 months to 1 year of driving experience.
- Modern equipment: Drive late-model Kenworth, Freightliner, International, Volvo, or Peterbilt trucks with electronic logs and APU units.
Requirements
- Be at least 22 years of age and legally authorized to work in the U.S
- Hold a valid U.S. driver’s license for at least 1 year
- Have a clean driving record with no DUI/DWI offenses within the past 5 years and no more than one lifetime conviction
- Pass the DOT physical and drug screening
- Pay for basic living costs and the $50-$100 cost of CLP fees
- Agree to work for PAM Transport for 1 year after graduating from the course
- Be physically and mentally fit to be away from home for at least 7 days continuously
5. Schneider National
Schneider National is a premier logistics provider with a rich history of hauling freight for more than half of Fortune 500 companies. This company has grown to be the large name that it is today, with an extended reach across North America. Schneider not only places particular emphasis on developing new talent but also eradicates financial barriers to training for aspiring drivers. This paid CDL training program, along with options for tuition reimbursement, helps ensure both new and seasoned drivers have what they need to thrive.
Schneider’s CDL Apprenticeship Training program is tailor-made to prepare new drivers with the necessary skills and confidence for success in the trucking industry. This is an immersive 5 to 7.5-week on-the-job training program, which blends classroom instruction, hands-on practice, and one-on-one mentorship. By the end of this program, students will be ready to begin a rewarding professional truck driver career.
Benefits
- Paid transportation: Get transportation to Schneider’s training facility if needed.
- Weekly pay: Receive pay while in training.
- Behind-the-wheel training: In-depth tractor-trailer driving experience both in training yards and on the road with instructors.
- Classroom instruction: Learn the fundamentals of logistics safety, regulations, and operations.
- All-inclusive housing: Qualified students receive free food and housing during training.
Requirements
- Be at least 21 years old
- Have a valid driver’s license for the past 12 months
- Obtain a CLP before starting the course
- Have a clean driving record with no DUI/DWI offenses in the last 5 years
- Undergo a DOT physical examination and drug screening
- Commit to 1-year employment contract with Schneider
6. YRC Freight
YRC Freight is one of the oldest and most respected names in the logistics industry, created through the merger of Yellow Transportation and Roadway. From its humble beginnings in 1924, it grew to become one of the largest less-than-truckload shipping companies in the contiguous 48 states. Moreover, in terms of CDL training, the YRC Freight CDL Training Academy is one of the best training programs certified by the Professional Truck Driver Institute. The academy offers paid training in their facilities including Indiana, preparing drivers for success without financial burden.
Benefits
- No upfront costs: The program is free of charge provided you sign a 1-year employment contract.
- Express training: Complete your CDL training in as few as 4 weeks (160 hours).
- Attractive pay: Begin with union-contract pay after completion; first-year drivers can earn up to $60,000
- Comprehensive advantages:
- Free health insurance for drivers and their families, covering medical, dental, and vision.
- Access to retail and mail-order prescription plans
- Paid overtime, jury duty, and bereavement leave
- Worker’s disability coverage
- 401(k) saving plan
- Exclusive rewards: Hourly pay during breakdowns and load delays
- Modern equipment: Forklifts, dollies, pallet trucks, and other industry-standard equipment are in use.
Requirements
- Be at least 21 years of age
- Hold a valid Class A CLP
- Pass a DOT physical exam, drug screen, and background/fingerprint investigation
- Have a clear Motor Vehicle Record (MVR)
- Demonstrate ability to read road signs and traffic signals and to complete driver logs in English
- Physically capable of performing the essential functions of the job, including lifting up to 70 lbs. and operating equipment
- Be willing to work varying shifts, overtime, and 5 hours a week for OTR positions
- Consign to 1-year employment contract to repay tuition fees
7. Celadon Trucking
Celadon Trucking is one of the premier transportation companies in the land. Established in 1985, it has since expanded its fleet to more than 5,500 tractors and 12,000 trailers, making it one of the largest haulers in North America. Focused on safety, with the latest equipment and a belief in career development, Celadon has provided a career path for its new drivers through the Celadon Trucking School, with extensive paid CDL training. The CDL training program at Celadon not only eliminates financial obstacles but also offers practical work experience in a very supportive setting.
Benefits
- Tuition-free: Tuition of $2,600 is covered with zero upfront costs deducted at $50 a week for the first year of employment.
- Financial support during training:
- Make $400-$500 a week while training during the first 10,000 miles.
- Post-training, team driver weekly compensation: $500-$900/week, depending on experience and tenure.
- On-site amenities:
- Free meals, lodging, and transportation to the Indiana training facility.
- Indianapolis school has a cafeteria, weight center, and medical facilities to make sure your basic needs are met while in training.
- Cutting-edge equipment for learning: Train with Celadon’s late-model trucks, averaging under 2 years old with electronic logs and APU units.
- Immediate career launch after graduation:
- Train with Celadon’s late-model trucks, averaging under 2 years old with electronic logs and APU units.
- Potential to earn up to $60,000 in the first year as a solo driver, with no cap on pay increases based on miles driven.
- Early star employee benefits:
- Medical, dental, vision, life insurance, and 401(k) after 60 days of contract
- Annual accrual of paid vacation time, starting at $500 a week for paid time off
Requirements
- Be at least 21 years old
- Obtain a valid U.S. driver’s license
- Possess U.S. citizenship or legal work authorization such as a Green Card
- Have a clean driving record:
- No DUIs or major convictions within the last 5 years
- No felony convictions within the last 10 years
- Commit to complete training and obtain a CDL
- Drive as a member of a two-person team for at least 120,000 miles before upgrading to solo driving status.
- Have a one-year employment agreement to help balance costs associated with tuition.
FAQs
1. What is the best trucking company paid for CDL training in IN?
Trucking companies in Indiana offer great choices for paid CDK training, each with excellent advantages that match up with different needs and career aspirations. Among the top companies with facilities or programs accessible to the residents of the state of Indiana are:
- Roehl
- CR England
- Carter Express
- PAM
- Schneider
- YRC Freight
- Celadon Trucking
With a focus on first-class training, competitive compensation, and long-term career development, these companies are the best choice for getting paid CDL training in Indiana. Detailed benefits and eligibility are listed above.
2. How to get paid CDL training in Indiana?
Getting paid CDL training in Indiana is pretty simple, thanks in great part to several reputable trucking companies that offer training programs. Here is how you can get started:
- Look for companies with paid CDL training programs: Search for companies that operate training facilities or sponsor CDL training in the state. Check whether they provide any paid CDL training programs. Review the benefits covered along with the requirements to choose your most suitable company.
- Fulfill eligibility requirements: Make sure you meet all general qualifications required by your chosen company, including but not limited to minimum age, physical fitness, valid documentation, and clean driving record.
- Apply to the company’s program: Submit your application directly through the company’s website or partner truck driving schools.
- Meet the work commitment: After being approved, you typically need to sign an employment contract, committing to work for the company for a specific period.
- Get paid CDL training: Now you can enroll in a CDL training program without any upfront costs!
Final thoughts
Starting your trucking career with paid CDL training in Indiana is a smart move to enter the dynamic trucking industry without going into debt. Companies such as Roehl, CR England, Carter Express, and others, provide attractive opportunities to earn while learning. Take time to review the benefits and requirements of each company, then choose the most suitable program for your needs. By making the right choice, you will hold a golden key to a rewarding career with endless possibilities. Start your journey now!
