Do You Get Paid While Getting Your CDL?

Pursuing a career in trucking often starts with an essential step: obtaining a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL). CDL training teaches the skills and knowledge needed to safely operate large trucks and handle the demands of the road.

But one of the most common questions that arise when people consider CDL training is, “Do I get paid while in CDL training?” The sort of application you select will determine the response. Let’s examine each choice in more detail.

CDL Training Sponsored by the Company

To attract new drivers, a lot of trucking businesses provide company-sponsored CDL training programs. These programs often pay for tuition and, in certain situations, give students an hourly wage or stipend while they are in training. This is how it usually works:

• Tuition coverage. Companies that sponsor CDL training often pay the full program cost, meaning you don’t have to cover upfront fees. This can be a huge financial benefit for those looking to enter the trucking industry without debt.
• Payment during training. Sometimes, company-sponsored programs offer trainees a small stipend or hourly wage while in school. The pay may vary based on the company and location but usually covers basic living expenses.
• Commitment requirement. The trade-off with company-sponsored programs is that they often require trainees to sign a contract committing to work for the company for a specified period after completing their CDL. This commitment is typically between one to two years, with some programs imposing penalties if drivers leave early.

Private CDL Schools

Private CDL schools are independent institutions where students pay for their CDL training out of pocket or through financing options. These programs generally do not offer any form of payment to students during training, as they are not affiliated with a specific trucking company.

• No income during training. Unlike company-sponsored programs, private CDL schools don’t provide stipends or hourly pay, so students may need to budget accordingly or take on part-time work while attending training.
• Financial aid and financing options. Many private CDL schools offer financing plans, grants, or scholarships to help students cover the cost of training. Some schools also partner with financial institutions to provide loans.

What is CDL Training?

CDL training is a specialized program that teaches aspiring drivers how to operate commercial vehicles safely and professionally. Road safety, truck handling, state and federal rules, and practical driving experience are just some important subjects covered in this course. Depending on the type and level of training, CDL programs can take three to seven weeks.

Private CDL schools and company-sponsored CDL programs are the two primary categories of CDL training programs. Whether or not they provide paid training is one of their unique characteristics and choices for potential truck drivers.

How Much Can You Earn While Training?

Earnings in company-sponsored CDL programs that pay trainees differ depending on the area and company. Some companies may pay a weekly stipend during training, while others may offer a low hourly compensation. Here’s a broad overview of what to expect:

• Hourly or Weekly Pay: Although some businesses may provide significantly more or less, the average weekly salary is between $300 and $500. This income can assist with necessary training expenses, but it is unlikely to cover all costs.
• Factors Affecting Pay: The cost of living in a certain location, the financial standing of the business, and whether or not there is a strong need for new drivers are some examples of factors that might affect pay rates.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Paid CDL Training

It’s critical to consider the advantages and disadvantages of both private and company-sponsored CDL training programs.

Benefits of Paid CDL Training

• Earnings while training. Making money during your training can reduce your financial load and free up more time for you to concentrate on developing the skills required for the position.
• Guaranteed job. After completing your training, many company-sponsored programs offer guaranteed employment, which can be a big help with job stability.
• Tuition assistance. You won’t have to pay for tuition for most company-sponsored programs, which can result in upfront savings of thousands of dollars.

Drawbacks of Paid CDL Training

• Dedication to a specific company. Signing a contract and committing to work for the company for a predetermined amount of time is a requirement for many company-sponsored programs. It is more difficult to change jobs if you are dissatisfied with the company because breaking this contract frequently has financial consequences.
• Limited freedom of choice. You might not be able to look into other employers or driving possibilities early in your career because company-sponsored programs are linked to particular companies.

Conclusion

While CDL training is an investment in your future career, it can also come with financial challenges. Whether you get paid during CDL training largely depends on the type of program you choose. Company-sponsored CDL training can be a great option for those seeking income and job security, but it often comes with a commitment to work for a specific company. Private CDL schools, on the other hand, offer more freedom but typically don’t pay students during training.

If you’re considering a career in trucking, Owner Operator Land can become your true partner. Apply today to learn more about a career in trucking and get connected with reliable carrier companies.