Obtaining a CDL license in today’s world means investing in a future with high earning potential. Just recently the Louisiana Motor Transport Association released a report stating that the driver shortage is the state’s number one concern. The lack of skilled drivers continues to put a strain on the supply chain, increasing the need for CDL schools in Louisiana to produce qualified applicants.
While Louisiana CDL requirements aren’t strenuous, they do require you to complete intense training where you not only learn to operate a larger vehicle, but also receive training in all the safety standards and regulations. Here’s a quick look at some of the best CDL schools in Louisiana.
Where the best truck drivers go to find jobs nationwide!
Quicklook: Best CDL Schools in Louisiana
- Diesel Driving Academy
- CDL Mentors of Baton Rouge
- Coastal Truck Driving School
- 160 Driving Academy
- Global Trucking Academy
- Central Louisiana Technical Community College
6 Best CDL Schools in Louisiana
Now let’s take a closer look at where and how to get a CDL in Louisiana as we break down each school.
Diesel Driving Academy
Diesel Driving Academy has a history of training and placing students in high-paying trucking jobs since 1972. They offer day and evening classes to accommodate all schedules. As one of the top trucking schools, they have locations in Shreveport, Baton Rouge, and Little Rock.
Cost: $7,530 to $10,900
Program Length: 3-8 weeks depending on the qualification
Financial Assistance: It is available for qualified applicants through the following programs.
- The State of Louisiana Board of Regents
- Vocational Rehabilitation
- Workforce Investment Act
- Veteran Education & Training
- U.S. Department of Education
- Arkansas State Board of Private Career Education
- Veterans Affairs/GI Bill
Tuition Reimbursement: Many trucking companies partner with schools offering tuition reimbursement if the student agrees to contract with them for up to a year. Inquire with Diesel Driving Academy to find out more. Most of the large carriers they work with pay an extra $100 to $400 per month to cover reimbursement costs.
Class Size: 15-20
Job Placement: These are the companies Diesel Driving Academy partners with to find their students employment.
- Stevens Transport
- Werner
- TMC Transportation
- Schneider National
Course Location: In-person only.
CDL Licenses:
- A
CDL Mentors of Baton Rouge
This school is dedicated to helping its drivers obtain gainful employment once the program is completed. Their career services staff offer job placement services to their graduates for the length of their driving careers. With flexible class hours, a positive environment, and excellent career preparation, this is one of the best CDL schools in Louisiana.
Cost: $4,500 to $5,500 depending on the qualification
Program Length: 3-6 weeks depending on the qualification
Financial Assistance:
- 80% to 100% financial aid if qualified
- Grants available
Tuition Reimbursement: If qualified, 80 – 100% of the tuition is reimbursed once you are placed with a company that offers a repayment for the training. Below are some of the companies the school works with.
- Werner
- Covenant
- Stevens
Class Size: 16-21
Job Placement: Yes, this company helps you find employment for the length of your career.
Course Location: Both online and in-person available. You are able to take knowledge courses online, but driving certifications are completed in person.
CDL Licenses:
- A
- B
Coastal Truck Driving School
Coastal Truck Driving helps you meet the Louisiana CDL requirements with their comprehensive training programs. They believe education is the foundation of success and career advancement and this belief drives them to prepare their students well for the competitive trucking industry. Once you walk onto the campus, you are part of the Coastal Truck Driving Family for life.
Cost: $4,000 to $7,000
Program Length: 4-8 weeks depending on the qualification
Financial Assistance: This school accepts financial assistance from federal, state, and local programs. They also offer their own payment options. You can apply to one of the following programs for assistance.
- LARehab, or Louisiana Rehabilitation Services
- WIA, or Workforce Investment Act
- MET, or Motivational Education Training, Inc.
- Veterans Affairs or GI Bill
- In-House Financing
Tuition Reimbursement: Many trucking companies partner with schools offering tuition reimbursement if the student agrees to contract with them. Inquire with Coastal Truck Driving School (CTDS) to find out more as most trucking companies who hire CTDS graduates offer a benefits package that includes tuition reimbursement.
Class Size: 10-15
Job Placement: Recruiters regularly visit the classrooms searching for students to hire. Once you are a student here, you are their student for life and they will continue to support you throughout your career. Below are some of the companies that are part of the job placement program.
- Imperial
- Melton
- Baton Rouge Beverage Company
- Werner
- Covenant
- McElroy Truck Lines
- Maverick Transportation
- Paschall Truck Lines
- U.S. Xpress
- TMC Transportation
Course Location: In-person only
CDL Licenses:
- A
- B
- C
160 Driving Academy
This truck driving school offers a hybrid instructional program with both classroom and on the road training. Students are kept updated on recent changes to rules and regulations in the trucking industry so they can pass their exams with flying colors. Upon completing the course, you’ll have the confidence and skill set needed to embark on a successful driving career.
Cost: $3,000 to $7000 depending on the qualification or endorsement
Program Length: 4 weeks
Financial Assistance: This is a no upfront cost driving school. That means if you meet the qualifications listed below, one of their hiring partners will most likely pay 100% of your tuition.
- 21 years old
- No felonies, drug convictions, or DUIs in the past 10 years
- Licensed to drive a car
They also accept grants and offer financial aid assistance through a lending partner. Contact 160 Driving Academy for more details.
Tuition Reimbursement: Many trucking companies partner with schools offering tuition reimbursement if the student agrees to contract with them once they’ve graduated. Inquire with 160 Driving Academy to find out more.
Class Size: 15
Job Placement: 160 Driving Academy offers job placement assistance with the best trucking companies nationwide.
Course Location: In-person only
CDL Licenses:
- A
Global Trucking Academy
Offering a one-stop shop for all commercial drivers’ needs is Global Trucking Academy’s goal. Their certified instructors will train drivers to stay safe and focused while on the road. They have formed partnerships with potential suppliers to ensure their drivers have lucrative employment upon graduating from the program.
Cost: $3,000 to $5,500
Program Length: 4-12 weeks depending on qualifications
Financial Assistance:
- LA Rehab
- WIA in Louisiana
- MET
- VA/GI Bill
Tuition Reimbursement: The majority of trucking companies that hire Global Trucking Academy (GTA) graduates offer tuition reimbursement and sign-on bonuses if the student agrees to contract with them. Inquire with GTA to find out more.
Class Size: 15-20
Job Placement: They maintain relationships with national and local companies in the industry and have recruiters visit classrooms to scout for new employees. Here are the partnerships they currently have.
- Jordan Carriers
- Werner
- Swift
- FedEx
- TMC Transportation
- Paschall Truck Lines
- Maverick Transportation
- McElroy Truck Lines
- U.S. Xpress
- Total Transportation of Mississippi
Course Location: In-person only
CDL Licenses:
- A
- B
Central Louisiana Technical Community College
This course trains students on the inspection, operation, and driving responsibilities of tractor-trailers on the road. The Commercial Vehicle Operator (CVO) program focuses on defensive driving, safety regulations and certifications, and range maneuvers. Unlike other programs, this one is open to 18-year-olds who are limited driving in-state until they turn 21. Once completed, the driver will have the knowledge needed to pass the exam and operate a truck safely.
Cost: $5,700
Program Length: 12 weeks
Financial Assistance: Students in this program are not eligible for US Department of Education Title IV financial aid.
Tuition Reimbursement: Many trucking companies partner with schools offering tuition reimbursement if the student agrees to contract with them. Inquire with Central Louisiana Technical Community College to find out more.
Class Size: 20
Job Placement: No
Course Location: In-person only
CDL Licenses:
- A
How Does CDL Training in Louisiana Work?
A CDL, or commercial driver’s license, is needed to operate larger vehicles, such as tractor-trailers or school buses. Just like your regular driver’s license you have to earn the privilege to operate these larger vehicles through written and road testing. Each state provides testing through local schools or programs supported by trucking companies.
Residents of Louisiana have to be at least 18 years of age and possess a valid driver’s license to obtain a CDL. If you already have your CDL from another state, there are a few steps needed to meet the Louisiana CDL requirements. Just visit the Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles with your current CDL, medical and ID requirements, proof of insurance, and be prepared for a vision exam. Once you pay the necessary fee, you will have your Louisiana CDL.
On average, new truck drivers earn $47,000 in their first year. Depending on the distance you’re willing to drive, salaries can range between $60,000 and $100,000 per year, with the average being $83,000.
There are several CDL schools in Louisiana ready to prepare you for a life on the road. Jobs for Class A and B drivers are in demand as delivery jobs, school bus drivers, hazard waste haulers, and more need to be filled. Whether you’re looking for local or long-haul employment, you’re sure to find plenty of opportunities in Louisiana.
Louisiana Trucking School Facts & Figures
CDL schools in Louisiana help their students find regular, reliable employment. Let’s take a look at some of the things you should know about the training offered in the area.
Number of Schools
There are about 20 schools where you can obtain a CDL in Louisiana, with most of them located in the Greater New Orleans area. Many offer on-campus housing for students who don’t live close to the schools.
Many of the CDL schools in Louisiana have locations in different cities to make it convenient for residents who may not be able to live in campus housing.
Number of Students per Class
The average class size consists of 21 students.
Tuition Rates
Obtaining the popular Class A CDL is about $6,361 in Louisiana. Endorsements for passenger transport, hazardous materials, tankers, and other industry services may require additional fees.
Average Loan Amount
Most loans awarded are for $5,066. This usually covers about 80% of the tuition costs.
Scholarship
There are several minority and miscellaneous scholarships available for students, averaging a payout of $4,150.
Job Placement
Most of the CDL schools in Louisiana offer job placement in a very competitive market. Schools average a job placement rate of 80%-95%.
Louisiana Trucking Employment Facts & Figures
Because of the shortage of CDL drivers in Louisiana, the job is currently in high demand. Entry-level drivers are finding lots of success with companies hiring to fill the gaps. Let’s take a look at the top employers in the area and the salaries offered.
Employment
Right now there are over 5,000 jobs listed on Indeed for truck drivers, showing just how badly the industry is in need of workers. CDL schools in Louisiana are able to easily place their students with one of these companies, but here are the biggest employers in the area if you’re conducting an independent search.
| Biggest Employer | Average Salary | Company Size |
| FFE | $200,401 | 650 |
| Dart | $162,876 | 3,000 |
| XPO Logistics | $135,074 | 44,000 |
| Hansen & Adkins Auto Transport | $102,584 | 511 |
| Chalk Mountain Services | $100,000 | 775 |
Salary
Weekly: $1,730
Monthly: $6,923
Yearly: $83,079
Louisiana’s Trucking Industry Needs You
Louisiana has a great need for CDL drivers and companies are ready to pay salaries above the national average to entice potential candidates. CDL schools in Louisiana are filling up quickly, yet the demand is still high so if you’re looking for steady employment, Louisiana is looking for you.
Don’t waste any more time and visit TruckDrivingJobs.com today to find a position just right for you. Reach out to a recruiter or browse the open listings and start driving right away.
FAQ
You need a 160-hour program or 4 weeks for entry-level training.
No, but depending on the school there are knowledge parts of the test that you may take online.
Six years before they expire and renewals can take place 180 days before the license expires.
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