The truck driving industry has been witnessing a shortage of qualified drivers, so now is the best time to sign up. It is a lucrative profession with an average salary of $77,527 and additional sign-on bonuses of $2,500 to $7,000. If not having a commercial driver’s license (CDL) is holding you back from a job in the driving industry, many companies and federal programs will pay for your training, so you can fulfill your dream.

CDL apprenticeships
Because of the severe shortage of drivers in the trucking industry, individuals as young as 18 are being allowed to earn a CDL. The federal government has launched an apprenticeship program to train new drivers. This, in turn, has led to many private companies launching apprenticeships to bring new drivers into the industry. The Yellow CDL Driving Academy runs one such program, providing tuition-free professional training to beginners to help them earn their licenses. Such programs usually cover license education and fees, which can cost anywhere between $3,000 to $7,000. Thanks to these, applicants can save on training costs to obtain a Class A CDL. Many opportunities also come with guaranteed jobs with a particular company (generally a stipulated contract) after the training period, making them an attractive option for many young drivers beginning their professional journey in the field.

Paid CDL training
Besides apprenticeships, beginners can look for paid CDL training options. This type of program pays newcomers for the duration of their training. However, salaries are not very high, and many are run on a pay-by-mile basis. So, a learner’s salary for the week will depend on the number of miles they drive. Many paid CDL training contracts also have a clause that the driver must commit to the company for some time once they receive their license. It is one of the best ways to enter the driving industry. However, candidates must ensure the terms and conditions are transparent and meet the needs of both the driver and the company.

Company-sponsored CDL training
It is similar to the above training programs but with some critical differences. Sponsored programs generally require companies to cover the cost of training upfront. The training can take place at the company or a school of the trainee’s choice. But the options are limited to the company’s list of approved training schools for learners to choose from. One such program is offered by Schneider, which covers the cost of in-school training for students. It requires them to attend their orientation and become a driver at their company upon graduation. The training program also covers the cost of lodging (where applicable) to give learners a hassle-free experience.

Tuition reimbursement
Those who have already paid for their CDL training can get that money back by joining specific trucking companies. Many companies offer a tuition reimbursement program, where candidates can get up to 100% of their tuition reimbursed. Due to driver shortages, companies are eager to hire good quality drivers who have recently received their CDL, even if they need to spend big. Tuition reimbursement is an attractive program for many. In most cases, companies pay back tuition fees in monthly installments to ensure the driver is committed for a certain amount of time. The tuition reimbursement program gives learners the freedom and flexibility to complete their courses and training at an institute of their choice and have the sum reimbursed later.

Company-funded cost of living
CDL training generally takes between three and seven weeks. Some candidates need to move out of their homes and closer to the training location during this period. As a result, they incur an additional cost of living, such as lodging, meals, and transportation, besides tuition fees. Thankfully, many companies offer paid or sponsored training programs that cover these charges for students. However, these programs have not been created equally, so students must research and study which factors the company covers and what they are expected to pay for out of their own pockets. Since trained truckers are in high demand, some companies offer company-paid hotel stays and up to $500 to cover expenses. Others provide free transportation to the place of training, which is an excellent option if one does not stay close by.

Other programs to save on CDL training
Several other miscellaneous programs by the government encourage and support the education and training of new drivers. Veterans, in particular, may benefit from the Military Apprenticeship programs offered by many companies that cover the tuition fees under the VA education benefits. Based on their financial situations, some may be eligible for Federal Student Aid, which can partially or fully cover training costs. Underemployed, unemployed, or dislocated workers can opt for training and employment opportunities under the Workforce Innovation & Opportunity Act (WIOA). Individuals can choose from any of these programs as long as they meet the eligibility criteria. But, it is crucial to research well and select credible options.

Given the various supporting programs and opportunities available, now is the perfect time to join the trucking workforce as a professional driver. The rise of online deliveries has led to significant supply chain issues, creating a need for drivers to keep up with the rising demands in the retail sector. The boom has refocused company priorities such that they now know and recognize the value of good drivers and are willing to go the extra mile to hire and retain them. At a time when others are spending huge amounts of money to complete their education and training and then scampering for jobs, the driving industry has become a celebrated outlier, covering training and living costs and paying top dollar for their hires! Becoming a commercial driver is now easier, so if this field interests you, it is time to act.