Want to pursue a commercial trucking career in Texas but worried about the out-of-pocket cost of CDL training? You are not alone. The huge cost of CDL training burdens several aspiring CDL drivers. But no need to stress anymore. We get you covered in this post.
In this post, we outline the best-paid CDL training companies in Texas to help you reduce financial strain in getting a Texas CDL. For a quick answer, Stevens Transport, PAM Transport, Schneider Transport, and many others are the best companies offering you quality training and excellent job security. Keep reading for detailed information!
Top 8 of the best-paid CDL training in Texas
Whether you are new to the trucking industry or looking for a transition, Texas has numerous reputable companies offering paid CDL training that can get you on the road to a rewarding career. Here is a list of the top paid CDL training companies in Texas that not only pay for your training but also provide support and job placement:
1. Stevens Transport
Stevens Transport, headquartered in Dallas, TX, is the largest temperature-controlled trucking company in the U.S. with more than 3,000 drivers across the nation. With a focus on safety, qualified training, and career growth, Stevens Transport provides paid CDL training as well as a long-term stable career path for those entering the trucking industry without upfront training costs.
What is covered:
- 160-hour CDL training course: This program encompasses comprehensive, certified training that covers all aspects necessary to obtain a Class A CDL.
- 240-hour paid finishing program: On-the-job training with seasoned drivers, giving new drivers real-life experience behind the wheel.
- 100% sponsorship: Trainee does not have to pay out-of-pocket. Training costs are financed interest-free if you commit to work for a full year.
- Added amenities: Stevens Transport offers lodging, meal support, and transportation to Dallas for training if required.
- Career opportunities for advancement with a well-established, respected company.
Requirements:
- Must be at least 22 years old.
- Have a valid driver’s license.
- Pass a DOT physical and drug screen. Refer to our post on CDL medical exam for a detailed DOT medical checklist.
- No DUI or DWI convictions within the past 5 years.
- No more than three traffic violations in the last 3 years.
- No felony convictions in the last seven years.
- 3 years of verifiable employment history or military service.
2. PAM Transport
PAM Transport has been considered one of the major players in trucking since 1980. Specializing in “just in time” freight for the automotive market, PAM is now one of the largest dry-van carriers in the U.S. with over 1,800 trucks. PAM offers a tuition reimbursement program with Driver Solutions to help new drivers start their trucking careers with minimal costs for the CDL training.
What is covered:
- School tuition: The training will be paid with an employment commitment. Tuition is reimbursed six months after hire.
- Weekly stipend: Trainees receive $100 per week during training.
- Paid accommodation: There is accommodation available at school.
- Inset training and classroom instruction: This program puts you through classroom learning and hands-on driving experience at PAM headquarters.
- On-the-road mentorship: Upon licensure, students remain in company sponsorship for on-the-road training with an assigned driver mentor.
Requirements:
- Be at least 21 years old.
- Possess a valid U.S. driver’s license.
- Do not have a DUI on record in the last five years.
- Pass the DOT physical and drug test.
- Be willing to sign a one-year employment contract, early termination results in repayment of $5,995 tuition.
3. Schneider Transport
Schneider Transport is one of the logistic leaders, hauling freight for over 50% of the FOURUNE 500 companies. With an impressive North American fleet, Schneider is known for its driver-centric approach. This company offers several ways to get your CDL without carrying upfront costs. Schneider provides an apprenticeship training program and a tuition reimbursement program for new drivers.
What is covered:
- Apprenticeship training – CAT: 5 to 7.5 weeks paid program including on-the-job training through actual truck driving, classroom work, and training by experts
- Paid lodging and meals: Schneider provides lodging and meal expenses for qualified recruits.
- Tuition reimbursement: Graduates get $200 a month for up to $7,000 which pays for their CDL training. It also offers other benefits for military veterans, allowing them to take GI Bill benefits.
Requirements:
- Be at least 21 years old.
- Have a valid driver’s license for no less than 12 months.
- Obtain a Commercial Learner’s Permit.
- Live in an area with access to the CAT program.
4. CR England
Found in 1920, CR England has grown to become one of the nation’s largest refrigerated carriers. The consistent, year-round operations make the company one of the largest paid CDL training programs available. CR England recruits and trains new drivers at a very minimal or no cost through its own training schools, offering rapid job placement post-training.
What is covered:
- Full tuition paid: CR England pays the entire $4,995 training tuition for a nine-month driving commitment.
- Comprehensive training: This involves classroom training and hands-on training with experienced drivers, helping students build confidence and expertise over time.
Requirements:
- Must be at least 21 years old.
- No DUI in the past 7 years and clean employment history if under 24.
- Be qualified for DOT physical and pass the drug test.
- Sign a driving contract. If failure to comply, you will have to repay training costs and more for CR England.
5. Swift Transportation
Swift Transportation is one of the largest truckload carriers, founded in 1966. They own and operate more than 20,000 trucks across North America. Swift provides an excellent CDL training program with little or no cost, providing opportunities to train on a varied set of equipment types, including refrigerated, flatbed, and international experience.
What is covered:
- Low-cost training program: Tuition is paid at $3,900 with a driving contract. Swift reimburses this by deducing the tuition over the employment period.
- Accommodation and training books: This includes books, transportation, and accommodations with students sharing the rooms with other trainees.
- Veterans and first responder scholarships: Swift also extends additional support to veterans and first responders with scholarship opportunities for CDL training among other offerings.
Requirements:
- At least 23 years old, or 21 years old if currently serving in the military.
- No DUIs or reckless driving offenses in the past 5 years.
- Pass the DOT physical and the Workwell physical assessment.
- Pass background checks on past misdemeanor or felony convictions.
6. YRC Driver Academy
YRC Freight provides one of the few CDL training programs certified by the Professional Truck Driver Institute, guaranteeing you a top-tier course. YRC is an all-terminal LTL freight firm, allowing drivers to enjoy every week with a significant time when on the road. Classes will include unpaid classroom and paid hands-on OTR training.
What is covered:
- 4-week CDL training program: Driving skills, classroom education, and practice in the yard for 160 hours.
- Paid on-the-road training: Trainees work with a YRC Freight mentor driver to transition from classroom experience to practical on-the-job training
- No tuition costs: Fullu tuition-free is provided for drivers with working commitments. Exams and background checks are the trainees’s responsibilities.
Requirements:
- Must be at least 21 years old.
- Obtain a commercial learner’s permit.
- Have a clean driving record.
- Pass the DOT physical and drug screen.
7. Raider Express
Based in Forth Worth, Texas, Raider Express is a refrigerated truckload carrier specializing in the transportation of food and grocery products throughout the continental U.S. Driver-centered culture through training and support is the core of Raider Express, Their free CDL school offers an accessible gateway to a trucking career without the financial burden or contractual commitment and providers a new driver with all tools they needed to be successful.
What is covered:
- Paid classroom and on-the-road training: New drivers are paid for classroom and behind-the-wheel training while attending the 4-week training program. Raider Express pays for all CDL training without requiring a contract or making any deductions.
- Completion bonus: Raider Express offers a limited-time $2,500 completion bonus to their CDL training program.
- Job guarantee: Graduates are guaranteed a job with Raider Express after completing training.
- Competitive first-year compensation: You can receive roughly $70,000, over $1,300 on average per week.
Requirements:
- Must be 21 years old and possess a Texas driver’s license.
- No criminal convictions on record, including DUI/DWI, drugs, or violent offenses.
- Pass the hair follicle drug, alcohol, and DOT physical test.
- Obtain a stable employment history with at least 2 years of verifiable work history.
8. FFE Transportation
FFE Transportation is a refrigerated freight carrier serving the industry since 1946. Specializing in high-value and temperature-sensitive food products, FFE conducts business in all of the low 48 states and offers comprehensive company-sponsored CDL training.
What is covered:
- Free CDL training program: FFE offers a no-cost, fast-track 18-day training program, for your license. There are no out-of-pocket fee charges.
- Housing and transportation provided: Comfortable accommodation and transportation to the training are absolutely free.
- Expert staff: Instructors are experienced and licensed professionals.
- Job placement guaranteed: With training complete, there is a job guaranteed with FFE.
Requirements:
- Must be at least 21 years old with a clean driving record.
- No convictions of reckless driving within the last 3 years.
- Able to pass DOT physical and pre-employment drug screen.
- Have a DUI/DWI at least five years ago and not be in a commercial vehicle at the time.
- Not have a felony conviction within the last 10 years.
FAQs
1. What company pays for CDL in Texas?
As listed above, there are several companies offering paid CDL training in Texas. These programs can cover tuition, and living expenses or even offer spiden, providing aspiring commercial truck drivers with an accessible gateway to obtaining their CDL without financial burden. Carefully review all top list companies in our post to choose the most suitable company for your career.
2. How can I get my CDL for free in Texas?
To enroll in a paid CDL training program, follow these essential steps:
- Research available programs: First of all, you should research the paid CDL training programs available in Texas, as mentioned above.
- Check program requirements: Each company has different requirements to be eligible, from age limits to a clean driving record. Make sure you are suitable with these eligibility criteria before applying.
- Contact company for guidance on application: After researching and deciding on a suitable company, you are supposed to approach the company recruiters or representatives of the programs who will guide you through the process, documentation, and other information about the program and application.
- Submit your application: You must fill out the application form appropriately, along with all other required documents. Then, submit them to the company. Double-check for accuracy to avoid disrupted approval.
- Attend training if accepted: Once accepted, you begin your CDL training with the sponsor.
- Obtain your CDL and start your career: If you complete the program, take the CDL test. With a CDL in hand, you are ready to start your career as a professional truck driver.
Final thoughts
Paid CDL training in Texas offers an accessible and debt-free route for those interested in a trucking career. Such paid programs from companies like Steven, PAM, or Schneider offer free CDL training, stable employment, competitive pay, and other essential benefits. With the strong demand in Texas for qualified truck drivers, enrolling in one of the paid CDL training programs will be a worthy investment toward a long-term and lucrative career.
