Paid CDL training in Maine: Programs, Benefits and Requirements

Are you ready to hit the open road and build a fulfilling career in trucking? The paid CDL training in Maine offers an exceptional opportunity to earn as you learn. In such programs, aspirants get the skills and certification to operate commercial vehicles at no upfront cost.

During this article, we will refer to paid CDL training options available within Maine, reflect on some advantages of participating in the mentioned opportunities, and point out the main requirements you have to fulfill in order to enroll. Whether you are a complete newbie or looking to upgrade your license, this guide can give you all that you need to take the first steps toward becoming a professional truck driver.

The 7 Paid CDL Training in Maine

As good news, you’ll find practical training, financial support, and a direct route to getting a Maine CDL in such paid training programs. We will present the top 7 paid CDL training opportunities in Maine that have existed, the unique benefits they offer, and their requirements to help you make the best choice toward your career.

1. Roehl Transport

Roehl Transport was founded in 1962 by Everett Roehl and has since grown to one of the largest carriers in the country. Solutions offered range from dry van, flatbed, refrigerated, and specialized. Roehl’s paid CDL training program is unique in that drivers earn their Commercial Driver’s License while being employed as an employee. The “earn while you learn” model ensures financial stability and comprehensive training. Based on its strong focus on professional growth, Roehl Transport is definitely a great choice to make in order to create a rewarding trucking career.

paid cdl training in maine — Roehl Transport

Benefits

Roehl pays trainees as employees right from day one.
Roehl pays for CDL training so applicants do not have to worry about tuition for a CDL.
The program includes both classroom instruction and hands-on driving experience to ensure the trainees are well-equipped for obtaining their CDL and setting them up for success in their careers.
After the training, individuals go directly into a driving position with Roehl Transport upon successful completion of the program.
Roehl’s training curriculum places a strong emphasis on safety and the ability of drivers to confidently and responsibly handle real-life challenges.
Free lodging and most meals are provided during training.

Requirements

Applicants must be at least 21 years old.
Applicants must have a valid, non-restricted driver’s license.
Candidates should have a clean driving history with few or no traffic violations.
Applicants will be asked to undergo a criminal background check and have their employment eligibility verified.
Candidates need to pass the DOT physical exam and substance abuse test.
Trainees will need to agree to work for Roehl Transport for a period of time after completion of their training program.

2. Knight Transportation

Knight Transportation is one of North America’s largest truckload carriers, and it has built a reputation over the years based on safety and efficiency. The company was started in 1990. They offer paid CDL training that trains beginners in acquiring a CDL and getting paid at the same time as employees. Their practical training will fully equip new drivers through experts in their forthcoming career. Knight Transportation is the best option for people seeking professional growth, combined with enabling work conditions for long-term success in the trucking business.

Benefits

Knight Transport pays its trainees as employees right from day one, thus ensuring the financial aspect in the process of the CDL training.
Knight’s program combines classroom education with hands-on driving for the skills needed to succeed as a professional truck driver.
The paid tuition of the CDL training program is offered, therefore no financial burden on your pocket to earn a CDL.
Upon completion of the program, they are also guaranteed to be hired by Knight Transportation, making their transition into a trucking career effortless.
Knight offers many driving routes to further a truck driver’s career and leadership opportunities for advancement within the company.
Once hired from training, trainees are entitled to Knight’s benefit package, including health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off.

Requirements

The candidate applying should be at least 21 years old at the time of the application process.
Applicants must possess a valid, non-restricted driver’s license to begin the training process.
The applicant should have a safe driving history with no severe violation of traffic rules.
The candidate should be eligible for a criminal background check and drug screening process to be able to apply.
Applicants should have a DOT physical with a qualification to drive.
In return, the graduates from the training have to work with Knight Transportation for a fixed period.

3. Misty Moon Transport

Misty Moon Transport partners with FedEx as a contracted service provider, handling deliveries and logistics operations on behalf of the global shipping giant. Safety and professionalism are deeply rooted in Misty Moon Transport’s culture. It offers an environment that takes care of the drivers. The company also provides paid CDL training for aspiring drivers, helping them acquire the necessary experience and skills in the industry. With a focus on local routes and flexible opportunities, Misty Moon Transport remains a good platform where one can kick-start a career in trucking with the ‘earn while learning’ model.

Benefits

Paid training: During the training period, trainees are paid, thus guaranteeing them some financial stability while acquiring the necessary skills.
No CDL required: The program does not require a CDL; thus, it allows professionally experienced drivers to fit into the program.
Day shift opportunities: Most of the training and work schedules are during the day, offering a good work-life balance.
Local routes: Misty Moon Transport is focused on local deliveries, which reduces time away from home and offers a more predictable schedule.

Requirements

Valid Driver’s License: A valid driver’s license with a good driving record is required.
Professional driving experience: While not requiring a CDL, any professional driving experience qualifies the candidate for the program.
Background check: The candidate must be able to pass a criminal background check for safety and reliability purposes.
Drug screening: Candidates will also be required to take a drug test, as per industry standards and regulations.
Physical fitness: Applicants shall not have physical conditions which would impair their ability to safely operate commercial vehicles.

4. Dead River Company

Operating out of Bangor, Maine, Dead River Company is a longtime energy services provider supplying heating oil, propane, and HVAC solutions. It’s noted for its customer service and safety; however, this company also provides the chance to get paid CDL training to start one’s career in both transportation and the energy industries. The driving academy at Dead River Company provides hopefuls with a training program offering both the knowledge and skills to operate commercial vehicles with a paycheck at home.

Benefits

Paid training: The company provides compensation for trainees while training, therefore providing some sort of financial stability in the form of an earned income during training for skills required.
Benefits package: This includes health, dental, and vision insurance; 401(k) with company matching; paid time off; and paid holidays.
Professional development: Offers extensive professional and technical training, including apprenticeships and educational assistance.
Work-life balance: Time off is paid for, and 10 paid holidays support a healthy work-life balance.

Requirements

Age requirement: The candidate applying for any position should have a minimum age of 21 years.
Education: High school diploma or its equivalent preferred.
Experience: Prior experience is preferred but sometimes not necessary.
Licensing: Valid driver’s license required.
Physical fitness: The candidate should meet the physical requirements necessary to safely operate commercial vehicles.

5. Northeast Technical Institute

Northeast Technical Institute (NTI), headquartered in Scarborough, Maine, offers a variety of vocational training courses in skill acquisition, such as CDL. From an emphatic bent toward practical traineeships, NTI has gone further in giving knowledge and expertise to upcoming professional truckers through real-life road handling. NTI is very well known among other colleges for its friendly atmosphere, experienced instructors, and their care for their students’ success.

Benefits

Financial aid: NTI is a financial aid-approved and GI Bill-approved CDL training school for helping you finance your tuition easily.
Scheduling flexibility: You have both a full-time option, lasting 5 weeks, and a part-time option, lasting 10 weekends, serving you best according to your schedule.
Comprehensive curriculum: Your training is based on a combination of classroom hours, which are 78 hours, behind-the-wheel training hours, totaling 44 hours, and yard training hours, coming in at 38 hours.
Job placement services: NTI doesn’t guarantee job placement but, through its Office of Career Development, makes available job coaching, resume services, and opportunities to network with local employers upon graduation.

Requirements

Applicants must be at least 21 years old.
Preference for a high school diploma or its equivalent.
Must be a valid driver’s license and a clean driving record.
Candidates must have a criminal background check.
Applicants must also pass the physical qualifications to ensure they can safely operate commercial vehicles.

6. Eastern Maine Community College

Located in Bangor, Maine, Eastern Maine Community College is an esteemed institution with numerous career and technical-related programs. EMCC has been able to avail a broad-reaching CDL training program, designed to help place students in either the trucking or transportation industries of their choice. With experienced instructors and hands-on training, EMCC works to make certain students will obtain the knowledge and skills needed for their Commercial Driver’s License.

Benefits

Comprehensive training: The program is designed to take 78 hours of classroom instruction, 25.5 hours of lab time, and at least 44 hours of driving to prepare the student for the CDL test.
Scheduling: Multiple course schedules are available for students, including daytime, evening, and weekend classes-and everything in between.
Financial aid available: Many kinds of financial aid assistance options, such as scholarships and other programs, may assist in balancing the tuition burden.
Job placement support: While not being able to give full assurance of job placement, the institution offers resources to help graduates find employment in the transport market.

Requirements

Age: The applicant must have attained a minimum age of 18 years at the beginning of the course.
Residency: The candidate needs to be a Maine state resident.
Education: A high school diploma or completion certificate is needed.
Driver’s License: The candidate must have a valid and current driver’s license.
Physical and background checks: Candidates accepted will need to pass a Maine Department of Transportation physical, drug screening, and background check.

7. Sysco

Sysco is the global leader in selling, marketing, and distributing food products to restaurants, healthcare and educational facilities, hospitality businesses, and more. With a keen eye on safety and efficiency, Sysco recruits aspiring drivers into its paid CDL training programs. The trainee will learn hands-on from experienced professionals, with competitive pay for the job and chances of long-term growth within the company. With Sysco, which has been recognized for its commitment to employee development and customer satisfaction, one can definitely start a promising career in the trucking and logistics industry.

Benefits

Full training: Sysco offers a three-week training program to develop candidates through their license by earning a CDL.
All expenses on the company will provide the opportunity for training and licensure at a more inexpensive cost of financing to those participating.
After successful completion, they work at Sysco in employment positions provided within the program by getting a CDL.
Sysco offers competitive pay, including productivity incentives, vacation and holiday pay, comprehensive healthcare benefits, retirement plans, employee discount programs, and tuition reimbursement.

Requirements

Age requirement: The minimum age for applications is 21 years old.
Pre-employment background check and drug test: Candidates will have to clear the pre-employment background check and drug screen.
Physical capability: Must be capable of performing physical work such as lifting products weighing 100 pounds.

Final thoughts

In the end, paid CDL training in Maine such as Knight Transportation, Roehl Transportation,… offers a great opportunity for you to make your way into the trucking industry without upfront costs. Home to good programs, in-depth training is offered side by side with other benefits like financing and job placement. Whether seeking to become educated through one of the most well-known companies or learning one’s skillset through a technical institute, it’s got whatever any driver-to-be would ever ask for. With that said, take the first step into your rewarding trucking career by taking a look and applying to options and a paid CDL training in Maine!