Looking to start your commercial driving career in Rhode Island without the upfront costs? Paid CDL training Rhode Island offers an excellent opportunity to earn your license while keeping your finances intact. Several trucking companies in the Ocean State provide company-sponsored training programs that cover your education expenses and often guarantee employment upon completion.
Let’s discover how you can get your CDL training funded while launching your career in commercial transportation.
Top 3 best paid CDL training Rhode Island
Here are the top 3 paid CDL training programs in Rhode Island, providing hands-on experience, competitive pay during training, and strong job placement opportunities to help you kickstart a successful career in commercial driving.
Rhode Island Public Transit Authority
The Rhode Island Public Transit Authority (RIPTA) offers a paid CDL training program aimed at preparing individuals for careers as Paratransit Operators. The program provides hands-on training, including classroom instruction and practical driving experience. Now let’s see how you can get here!
Requirements:
The Rhode Island Public Transit Authority (RIPTA) offers a Paratransit Operator CDL Trainee Program designed to train individuals to become Paratransit Operators. To be eligible for this program, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Age: Applicants must be at least 21 years old to qualify for a passenger endorsement on a CDL driver’s license or permit.
- Driver’s License: Applicants must possess either:
A valid Rhode Island CDL driver’s license with a passenger endorsement permit, or
A valid Rhode Island CDL permit with passenger and general knowledge endorsement permits.
- Driving Record: Applicants must provide evidence of a clear driving history.
- Background Check: Applicants must pass a Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI) check.
- Testing and Licensing Fees: Applicants are responsible for all costs associated with the required written tests, skills tests, and licensing fees related to the CDL process. For more information on guidelines for CDL applicants, please visit the Rhode Island Division of Motor Vehicles.
Benefits:
The Rhode Island Public Transit Authority (RIPTA) offers a Paratransit Operator CDL Trainee Program with several notable benefits:
- Competitive compensation: Trainees earn $25.33 per hour during the training period.
- Comprehensive training: The program provides up to eight weeks of paid training, covering both classroom instruction and practical driving experience, to prepare trainees for the CDL permit test and subsequent driving responsibilities.
- Pathway to employment: Upon successful completion of the training and obtaining a CDL, trainees transition into full-time Paratransit Operator positions at RIPTA, with a starting salary of $25.84 per hour (equivalent to $53,747.20 annually).
- Benefits package: As full-time employees, operators receive a robust benefits package, including health insurance, life insurance, paid vacations, paid time off, sick leave, wellness programs, and participation in a pension plan.
- Career opportunities: RIPTA supports long-term career growth, offering opportunities for advancement within the organization.
New England Tractor Trailer Training School
New England Tractor Trailer Training School (NETTTS) offers a comprehensive paid CDL training program designed to equip students with the skills needed for a successful career in commercial driving. The program provides hands-on instruction, financial aid options, and career support to help graduates secure well-paying jobs in the trucking industry.
Requirements:
New England Tractor Trailer Training School (NETTTS) offers comprehensive CDL training programs designed to prepare students for a career in commercial driving. To enroll in their CDL training, prospective students should meet the following requirements:
- Age: Applicants must be at least 18 years old to operate within state lines (intrastate) and 21 years old to operate across state lines (interstate).
- Driver’s License: A valid driver’s license is required.
- Education: Applicants should possess a high school diploma or equivalent. Alternatively, passing an admissions test may be accepted.
- Driving record: A clean driving record is preferred, as it may impact employability upon program completion.
- Medical examination: Applicants must pass a Department of Transportation (DOT) physical examination and drug screening to ensure they meet the health standards for commercial drivers.
- English proficiency: Proficiency in English is necessary for understanding road signs, completing reports, and communicating effectively.
Benefits:
New England Tractor Trailer Training School (NETTTS) offers a comprehensive CDL training program designed to equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge for a successful career in commercial driving. The benefits of enrolling in NETTTS’s CDL training include:
- Hands-on training: NETTTS emphasizes practical experience, providing students with extensive behind-the-wheel training.
- Experienced instructors: The school’s instructors bring valuable industry experience, offering insights and guidance to prepare students for real-world driving scenarios.
- Financial aid: NETTTS offers financial aid options for those who qualify, including federal grants, loans, and payment plans. This assistance can help manage the financial burden of tuition.
Teamsters Local 251 Driving School
Teamsters Local 251 Driving School in Rhode Island offers an eight-week, grant-funded CDL Class A training program. Students receive hands-on instruction from experienced professionals, preparing them for commercial driving careers. While training is free, participants cover permit tests, drug screening, and medical exams. Graduates gain essential skills for safe, professional truck driving.
Requirements:
To enroll in the CDL Class A Training Program at Teamsters Local 251 Driving School in East Providence, Rhode Island, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Age: Be at least 18 years old.
- Driver’s License: Possess a valid driver’s license.
- CDL Learner’s Permit: Obtain a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) learner’s permit by passing the required knowledge tests, including General Knowledge, Air Brakes, and Combination Vehicles.
- Medical Examination: Pass a Department of Transportation (DOT) physical exam to obtain a valid DOT Medical Card.
- Drug Screening: Complete a drug screening test.
- Availability: Commit to attending at least two days per week during the eight-week training program.
Benefits:
The CDL training program of Teamster Local 251 Driving School offers numerous benefits for students enrolling in their course to ensure it is a competitive training school in the market.
- Paid training: Participants are compensated during training, helping to alleviate financial strain.
- Comprehensive instruction: The program provides in-depth classroom and behind-the-wheel training.
- Industry-Experienced instructors: Learn from instructors with over one million miles of safe driving experience.
- Job opportunities: Graduates have access to job placement assistance and potential union job openings.
- Grant funding: The program is grant-driven, reducing out-of-pocket costs for students.
FAQs
1. Do any trucking companies pay for CDL training in Rhode Island?
Yes, several trucking companies offer paid CDL training programs in Rhode Island. For instance, Roehl Transport provides a program where you’re hired and paid as an employee from day one, covering your CDL training costs.
2. How do I get funding for CDL Rhode Island training?
To fund CDL training in Rhode Island, you can explore the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA), which offers grants to eligible individuals for job training. The Rhode Island Department of Labor & Training provides information on program funding and eligibility criteria.
Final thoughts
Choosing a suitable CDL training school is necessary for anyone dreaming of being a commercial driver. It not only provides drivers with a foundation in driving experience but also ensures all the drivers can participate without worrying about financial burden. The top 3 best paid CDL training Rhode Island mentioned above are good choices for you to start! Ready to ace the driving career today!
