Get Paid While Training for Cdl Near Me: How to Get Certified and Earn While You Learn
If you’re looking for a fast path into a stable, in-demand career with good pay and freedom on the open road, paid CDL training can be one of the best options available. Many major U.S. trucking companies are offering programs that allow you to train for your Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) in about 3–6 weeks while earning income, followed by guaranteed job placement .
Why Paid CDL Training Is Attractive Today
Before look at specific programs, here’s why this training model is gaining traction:
Industry Demand: Trucking companies struggle to recruit qualified drivers, leading to more paid training opportunities.
Income During Training: Many programs pay trainees from day one during classroom, range, and on-road training phases.
Fast Certification: Paid programs typically run 3–6 weeks , making them a rapid route into the profession.
Job Placement: After training and certification, many carriers offer immediate employment with competitive pay, bonuses, and benefits.
1.Knight Transportation CDL Training
This program is designed for entry-level drivers who want to earn their Class A CDL and begin a long-haul trucking career. The training typically lasts 4-6 weeks and is performance-based, ensuring drivers are fully prepared for solo work.
Features: CDL training, hands-on OTR experience, one-on-one mentorship with experienced Knight drivers, and guaranteed job placement with Knight after program completion. Drivers also benefit from modern equipment, consistent freight, and the stability of a major national carrier.
Pay during training: Trainees earn pay while in the program, starting at $500–$600 per week during the initial training phase, with mileage-based pay ($0.45–$0.63 CPM) once they begin running OTR loads.
2.Millis Transfer (Millis Training Institute)
Millis Training Institute (MTI), part of Millis Transfer, operates one of the most respected CDL-A apprenticeship programs in the U.S.. This program is structured to give students professional instruction in small class settings, ensuring one-on-one guidance from seasoned instructors. MTI emphasizes real-world driving skills, safety, and confidence, preparing students for long-term careers in trucking.
Features: CDL apprenticeship program, small class sizes, modern equipment with advanced technology, professional mentorship, and guaranteed full-time employment with Millis Transfer upon graduation. Students also benefit from MTI’s decades of experience and strong graduation success rate.
Pay during training: Trainees earn $600 per week during the first 4 weeks of classroom instruction, then $0.44 per mile while driving with a trainer. After completing the program and becoming a solo driver, graduates transition directly into full-time professional roles with Millis Transfer, earning competitive mileage-based pay and benefits.
3. Roehl Transport Paid CDL Training
This program is one of the most reputable company-sponsored CDL programs in the U.S., and in Ohio, Roehl offers “Get Your CDL” training where participants are paid from day one, including during classroom and on-road trainer phases.
Features: CDL training, paid during training from day one as an employee, structured classroom + behind-the-wheel instruction with certified driver trainers, lodging and most meals provided, guaranteed job placement with Roehl once training is complete.
Pay during training: Trainees earn $616 per week during the classroom phase (3 weeks) of the CDL training program. Once licensed, trainees move into Phase Two with a certified driver trainer, then solo trucking, where pay transitions to mileage-based depending on fleet assignment. Roehl’s drivers with at least one year of experience average ~$1,360/week, with the top 50% making ~$1,540/week.
How to Apply — Practical Steps
Explore Company Programs: Visit the Company careers or training pages linked .
Check Requirements: Confirm minimum age, permit needs, and health screens.
Submit an Application: Fill out online forms or contact recruiters for paid training programs.
Attend Training: Show up for classroom and on-road instruction and start earning during the 6–10 weeks.
common Q&A specifically for CDL (Commercial Driver’s License) training
Q1: Do you need experience for paid CDL training?
Generally, companies offering paid CDL training do not require you to have any prior experience.
Q2: Will completing paid CDL training guarantee a job?
A: Many companies offer job placement after successful completion, especially if you train with their sponsored programs.
Q3: What types of trucks can I drive after completing training?
A: With a Class A CDL, you can drive tractor-trailers, tankers, flatbeds, and long-haul trucks. Class B CDL allows driving local delivery trucks, dump trucks, buses, or smaller commercial vehicles.
Q4: Can I build my driving experience for higher pay after training?
A: Yes. Most companies offer tiered pay based on experience and endorsements (e.g., HazMat, tanker). First-year drivers may earn $50,000–$70,000, while experienced long-haul drivers can exceed $90,000 annually.