Starting a career as a professional driver in Arkansas can be both exciting and nerve-wracking. To help make this transition easier, the team at Freight Waves created this guide to getting your CDL in Arkansas. We’ll even identify five of the top Arkansas CDL training schools so that you can find the best fit for your needs.
Stop repetitively searching phrases like “paid CDL training Arkansas” and check out our guide! You’ll find all of the information you need in one convenient place!
How Does CDL Training in Arkansas Work?
While it is not required, CDL training is meant to prepare students for a career as a commercial drivers. The exact length of Arkansas CDL training will vary from school to school. The type of endorsements and class of license that you want to obtain will also influence how long your coursework lasts.
Once you’ve completed the training program, you’ll be better prepared to pass the state knowledge test and skills demonstration. After that, you will be eligible to receive your CDL in Arkansas.
Arkansas Trucking School Facts & Figures
Below, we’ll highlight some key facts about Arkansas CDL training and educational opportunities.
Number of Schools
Several colleges have recently launched in-house training programs in response to the huge demand for CDL drivers in the state. There are roughly 35-50 trucking schools in Arkansas, including these college programs.
Number of Students per Class
The average class size varies by program, but you can expect to be in a group of 20 students or less at most schools. Some smaller programs have class sizes of less than 10 students.
Tuition Rates
The average cost of CDL training in Arkansas will depend on the length of the program that you enroll in.
For instance, Diesel Driving Academy offers a basic course that is approximately $5,000 and an advanced program that is roughly $10,500. Some programs have cheaper tuition that comes in at under $3,000.
Average Loan Amount
The average loan amount for Arkansas CDL training is approximately $3,000. However, there are plenty of opportunities to avoid taking out any loans whatsoever. This can be done by applying for scholarships or seeking out companies that offer paid CDL training in Arkansas.
Scholarship
Many students are able to obtain scholarships of approximately $2,000 or more. In addition, Northwest Arkansas Community College (NWACC) recently received a grant that they are using to expand scholarship opportunities for CDL training. Due to the low cost of their program, the grant may cover full tuition for eligible students.
Job Placement
Most Arkansas CDL training programs offer job placement assistance for their students. Oftentimes, students can have a job lined up even before they graduate.
For instance, the Diesel Driving Academy partners with top employers such as Werner, TMC, and Schneider International.
Arkansas Trucking Employment Facts & Figures
The employment outlook for individuals that complete CDL training in Arkansas is overwhelmingly positive. To gain a better understanding of your career outlook, take a look at some key employment facts and figures below.
Employment
| Biggest Employer | Average Salary | Company Size |
| J.B. Hunt Transport | $48,824 | 29,000+ |
| PAM Transport, Inc. | $45,000 | 200 |
| Rich Logistics | $88,209 | 180 |
| USA Truck, Inc. | $78,851 | 2,050 |
| Maverick Transportation, LLC | $74,262 | 1,771 |
Salary
Weekly: $1,143.86
Monthly: $4,766.08
Yearly: $57,193
Best CDL Training Programs in Arkansas
Our picks for the top 5 Arkansas CDL programs are:
North Arkansas College
North Arkansas College is one of several state educational institutions to offer a CDL training program. The program includes five weeks of classroom time and an additional 10-week internship. Students are allowed to choose which company they will partner with for the internship.
Cost: All students must also pay a $1,800 program fee
- In County, $1,568
- Out of County, $1,968
- Out of State, $3,088
Program Length: 15 weeks
Financial Assistance:
- Financial aid
- Payment plans
- Grants
Tuition Reimbursement: Many trucking companies partner with schools, offering tuition reimbursement if the student agrees to contract with them. Inquire with North Arkansas College to find out more.
Class Size: Varies, but may range from 15 to 25 students
Job Placement: No
Course Location: In-person only
CDL Licenses: Class A
Diesel Driving Academy
Diesel Driving Academy offers both basic and advanced Arkansas CDL training programs. The basic program is 160 clock hours, whereas the advanced option includes 600 clock hours. Both programs include hands-on training, classroom instruction, and supervised highway driving.
Cost:
- Basic Course: $5,000
- Advanced Program: $10,500
Program Length:
- Beginner: 4 weeks
- Advanced: 20 weeks
- Advanced Evenings: 30 weeks
Financial Assistance:
- Financial aid
- Payment plans
Tuition Reimbursement: Yes, DDA partners with the following companies for tuition reimbursement
- Werner
- TMC Transportation
- Schneider National
- Stevens Transport
Class Size: 15 to 20
Job Placement: Yes
Course Location: In-person only
CDL Licenses: Class A
Northwest Technical Institute
Northwest Technical Institute’s Arkansas CDL training program incorporates the latest equipment and curriculum. Their program is based on the state’s Entry-Level Driver Training plan to ensure that it is in compliance with the latest training requirements. Standard class hours are Monday through Friday from 8:00 am – 4:00 pm.
Cost: $4,000
Program Length: 4 weeks/160 hours
Financial Assistance: Yes
- Financial aid
- Payment plans
- Grants/scholarship opportunities
Tuition Reimbursement: Many trucking companies partner with schools to offer tuition reimbursement if the student agrees to contract with them. Inquire with NTI to find out more.
Class Size: Less than 30
Job Placement: No
Course Location: In-person only
CDL Licenses: Class A
Pine Bluff Truck Driving School
The Pine Bluff Truck Driving School offers one of the most condensed programs available. PBTDS is a good option for drivers that have been out of the profession for a long time and those who are comfortable with a fast-paced program. PBTDS is affordable and provides favorable student-to-instructor ratios.
Cost: $3,500
Program Length: 3 weeks, 6 days per week
Financial Assistance: Yes
- Financial aid
- Payment plans
Tuition Reimbursement: Yes, Pine Bluff Truck Driving School exclusively trains for OTR companies. Many of these companies offer student reimbursement.
Class Size: 10-25
Job Placement: Yes
Course Location: In-person only
CDL Licenses: Class A
East Arkansas Community College
EACC offers commercial driver’s training for both Class A, B, and C licensing. Their affordable program covers all aspects of becoming a CDL driver. The EACC program lasts for one semester or approximately 16 weeks.
Cost: $1,755, but tuition may be higher for out-of-state students
Program Length: 16 weeks
Financial Assistance:
- Scholarships
- Financial Aid
Tuition Reimbursement: Many trucking companies partner with schools to offer tuition reimbursement if the student agrees to contract with them. Inquire with EACC to find out more.
Class Size: 30 or more
Job Placement: Yes
Course Location: In-person only
CDL Licenses:
- Class A
- Class B
- Class C
Choosing the Right Arkansas CDL Training Provider
Each of the schools above can be a great option when you are ready to obtain your CDL in Arkansas. When you’re making your final decision, make sure to consider factors like location, tuition reimbursement opportunities, and overall course length.
FAQs
After completing Arkansas CDL training, it will cost $50 to take your commercial driver’s license test. The license itself will be an additional $42.
The test consists of 50 multiple choice questions, as well as a skills demonstration. A score of 80% is required to pass.
No, the exam must be taken at an Arkansas State Police testing facility or at an approved third-party provider’s office.
