CDL Paid Training-Starting At $130,000 Per Year

In recent years, the shortage of truck drivers in the United States has continued to intensify. According to the American Trucking Association (ATA), the industry gap has exceeded 80,000 in 2023 and is expected to soar to 160,000 by 2030.

To meet this challenge, Walmart, Schneider National, JB Hunt Transport Services, Knight-Swift Transportation and other companies have begun to launch "paid training + multiple subsidies" CDL training programs to help ambitious people enter this high-demand, high-return career field.

This article will detail a series of CDL (commercial driver's license) paid training programs offered by several well-known companies, and explore how these programs can lower the economic threshold for entering the industry and provide a stable career development path.

What is paid CDL training?

Paid CDL training programs provide those who wish to become truck drivers with the opportunity to receive training within the company and receive wages during the training process. This program is particularly suitable for job seekers who are unable to enter the industry due to the high cost of training.

Through the paid training programs provided by these companies, trainees can not only obtain CDL certification, but also quickly integrate into the company's logistics system, ensuring immediate employment after graduation, eliminating the trouble of finding a job.

Advantages of paid training

1. Government funding and corporate sponsorship

In order to further reduce the financial burden of trainees, many companies' CDL training programs are not only funded by the company, but also combined with federal and local government funding programs. For example:

The U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) provides a variety of scholarships and grants to help eligible trainees reduce or even waive part of the training costs.

State governments have also established corresponding funding programs, such as Illinois' "Truck Driver Training Program", to provide trainees with tuition reduction.

In addition, some well-known companies will also provide additional scholarships to outstanding trainees to motivate them to successfully complete training and obtain CDL certification. The following are specific sponsorship and support measures provided by several companies:

2. Earn while learning, low economic cost

Unlike traditional CDL training schools, Paid training program allows trainees to receive wages during their studies. This means that trainees can not only maintain their living expenses during training, but also accumulate work experience and gradually adapt to the work rhythm of truck drivers.

This "learn while earning" model greatly reduces the economic threshold for entering the industry, making it easy for more people who are interested in trucking to get started.

3. Industry Outlook: Annual salary starts at $130,000

Companies that participate in paid CDL training programs often stand out in the logistics industry for their high pay packages. According to company data, full-time truck drivers can earn more than $150,000 per year, which is much higher than the industry average. The pay structure is based on a per-mile rate and includes additional bonuses and allowances, such as delivery fees, waiting time compensation, and special task incentives. Specifically:

Starting salary is leading

The basic hourly wage for new drivers is $35, and based on 55 hours per week (including overtime pay), the annual income can reach $130,000.

If you choose an interstate long-distance route, you can enjoy an additional subsidy of 0.68 per mile (the industry average is 0.48), and the annual income can exceed $150,000.

Dual channels for career development

Technical route: Senior drivers (more than 3 years) can be promoted to safety supervisors or trainers, with annual salary increased to $180,000;

Management route: Through internal planning, they can be transformed into dispatch supervisors or regional managers, with annual salary exceeding $200,000.

4. Comprehensive training content

Paid CDL training not only teaches driving skills, but also includes training in safety standards, cargo transportation, vehicle inspection, customer service, etc. Through the systematic course setting, students can master the ability to handle complex transportation tasks while ensuring a high degree of safety and efficiency at work. The training process is guided by experienced professional coaches to ensure that every student has ample opportunities for practice.

5. Complete welfare system

In addition to high salaries, these companies also provide employees with a range of generous benefits, including health insurance, paid vacations, holiday bonuses or allowances, and employee discounts. These benefits not only improve the quality of life of employees, but also enhance their job satisfaction and loyalty.

According to employee satisfaction surveys, truck drivers of these companies are generally satisfied with the working environment and benefits, which further consolidates the company's leading position in the logistics industry.

Companies that Offer Paid CDL Training

Here are some of the most notable companies that offer paid CDL training programs:

1. Walmart

Walmart offers a comprehensive paid CDL training program designed to help new drivers obtain the necessary licenses and quickly integrate into the company's logistics system. Students are paid during training and have the opportunity to become full-time truck drivers for Walmart upon completion.

2. Schneider National

Schneider National offers a variety of training options, including apprenticeship programs and novice driver programs, which allow students to learn while working and eventually obtain a CDL.

3. JB Hunt Transport Services

JB Hunt offers a "Get Your CDL" program that not only provides training, but also guarantees a job offer immediately after completing training and passing the exam.

4. C.R. England

C.R. England is a well-known cold chain transportation company that offers a CDL training program that allows students to earn income while learning and promises employment opportunities after successfully obtaining a CDL.

5. Knight-Swift Transportation

Knight-Swift offers paid CDL training through its "Swift Academy" and students can directly join the company's fleet after completing training and passing the exam.

6. Prime Inc.

Prime offers a unique "Student Driver Program" where students receive one-on-one instruction from a professional instructor and are paid during their training.

7. CRST Expedited

CRST offers a paid training program that lasts approximately several weeks, after which students are assigned to a team driver role and begin their career.

8. Roehl Transport

Roehl's "Get Your CDL" program provides students CDL training and guarantees job placement upon completion of training.

9. US Xpress

US Xpress offers a training program called "New Driving School" that allows students to earn income while learning and guarantees job placement upon completion of training.

Who is suitable for this program?

The paid CDL training program is suitable for the following groups of people:

1. People who are interested in becoming a truck driver:

You can apply if you are over 18 years old, and there is no educational requirement; there is no high training cost.

2. People who are looking for a stable career:

The trucking industry is booming, and the paid training program provides job seekers with a great opportunity to enter this field, ensuring stable employment and a good income.

3. Career changers:

If you have worked in another industry for many years but are looking to switch to truck driving, the paid training program can help you make a smooth transition without additional financial investment.

Training Process

1. Application Process

Those interested in participating in the paid CDL training program can submit an application through the company's recruitment website. During the application process, applicants need to provide basic personal information and pass the necessary interviews and background checks. Qualified candidates will receive an acceptance letter and enter the next stage of training.

2. Training begins

Once accepted, trainees will begin a few weeks of CDL training. The training content includes two parts: theoretical learning and practical operation. Under the guidance of professional coaches, trainees will learn how to safely operate commercial vehicles and master relevant transportation skills.

3. Pass the exam and obtain CDL

After completing the training, trainees need to pass the CDL exam. After successfully passing the exam, trainees will receive a formal commercial driver's license and are ready to start their careers.

4. Join the Walmart fleet

After obtaining the CDL certification, trainees will be assigned to the company's truck driver team and begin to handle the company's transportation tasks. In the process, they will enjoy a variety of benefits and salary packages provided by the company.

Conclusion

Paid CDL training programs offer a quick and easy path for newcomers to the trucking industry. Low barriers to entry, high reward potential, and stable job security make it an ideal choice for those seeking a reliable career start.

Whether you are facing financial pressures or looking to change career direction, paid training programs provide you with a great opportunity to start a new career chapter. Visit the official website of the relevant company now to learn more about the program and take your first step towards a high-paying career.