CDL Schools in California (Top Programs Listed)

If you were considering becoming a truck driver in California, read this guide first to discover if you meet the requirements, and what you need to do to become a commercial driver.

Meeting the Criteria

Californian truck drivers need a special license, and at times even some endorsements, in order to do their job.

To get the license you first have to make sure you:

• Are at least 21 years old – for double or triple trailers, to transport hazardous materials, or drive out of state
  • You can be at least 18 if you won’t be driving under the above conditions.
• Are an American citizen, or prove you can work in America
• Pass the background check, both criminal and of your driving record
  • Your driving records must be top-notch
• Are drug-free
• Are in good physical condition, as you will be required to lift and carry heavy items

Once you meet all those requirements, it’s time to see which license you need, start training, and pass the license exam.

It’s possible to be asked to have at least 1 year of driving experience, so keep this in mind as well, before you enroll.

Which License?

Depending on the truck’s weight and what you’re supposed to haul, you can get one of these 3 licenses:

• Class A: for combination vehicles of more than 26,000 pounds and pulling a trailer of over 10,000 pounds
• Class B: for single or combination vehicles; the single vehicle is more than 26,000 pounds and the pulled trailer under 10,000 pounds
• Class C: for single or combination vehicles that can’t be described as above; for buses of over 16 people; or when transporting of hazardous materials
• Class D: for personal cars.

The licenses allow the holder to drive vehicles in the classes under his class, but not the ones above his class.

You can add extra endorsements to the first 3 classes, to allow you to drive under a variety of situations.

Which School?

There are dozens of driving schools in California, and this can make choosing one a bit more difficult.

The most successful have branches in more cities and they make a great choice.

Others may offer programs for small groups, and if you feel intimidated by driving a truck, these ones could be the right choice for you.

While the tuition is also important, do remember that it’s possible to get a scholarship, so make sure to ask about this and see if you qualify.

Some of the schools offer programs at the end of which you’ll earn a degree, and some even offer extra classes for extra certifications.

These are the specialties of some of the courses:

• smoke inspection
• truck mechanic
• air quality

You’ll have to pass a driving test and a knowledge exam as well.

The exam is not free, and getting the license costs $70.

You’ll have to pay $40 to retake the exam if you fail the first time.

Renewing the license costs $41.

Income

The median salary in California for these drivers is $49,400 per year, while those in the top 10% make around $57,250 per year.

The median salary in the United States for these drivers is $44,225 annually, while those in the top 10% make around $51,254 per year.

It’s worth noting that having more certifications can increase your yearly salary.

Regional Salary in California

Final Thoughts

There are many different settings in which you can find a job once you get your CDL in California.

CDL Schools by State