Truck driving is a fast-track path to a well-paying career, but getting your commercial driver’s license (CDL) requires upfront investment. CDL training costs typically range from $3,000 to $10,000, depending on the program. You may have several options to cover the cost.
In this guide, we’ll break down the most effective ways to pay for truck driving school—from employer programs and state assistance to loans, grants, and other forms of financial aid. Whether you’re unemployed, switching careers, or fresh out of school, there’s likely a path that fits your needs and budget.
| Company | Rates (APR) | Rating (0-5) |
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| 5.59% – 16.99% | ||
| 5.59% – 16.99% | ||
| 5.59% – 16.99% |
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Best ways to get financial help for CDL training
Three common ways to get help paying for your training are through an employer, state and unemployment aid programs, and grants or scholarships.
1. Employer-sponsored CDL training
Many trucking companies offer to cover the cost of CDL training for new hires. Some front the money, while others reimburse you after you complete the program and start working for them.
The biggest advantage is that you may pay little to nothing out of pocket. But these programs often require a contractual commitment to drive for the company for a certain period (often six to 24 months).
2. State workforce programs and unemployment office aid
If you’re unemployed or underemployed, your state’s workforce agency may help fund your CDL training. These programs are typically available through:
- Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA)
- State departments of labor or employment services
- American Job Centers
To qualify, you may need to show proof of income, work status, and career readiness. Check with your state unemployment office or local job center for eligibility and application steps.
3. Grants and scholarships for CDL students
Federal and state grants, as well as school-based scholarships, may also help you cover CDL training.
If your training school participates in Title IV federal student aid programs, you could qualify for:
- Federal Pell Grants (up to $7,395 in 2025 for eligible students)
- Other federal or state career training grants
Some trade schools and nonprofits also offer scholarships specific to trucking students.
Should you take out a loan for CDL training?
If you’ve looked into the options listed above and still need additional funds to pay for your training, student loans and personal loans are options to consider.
4. School payment plans and direct loans
Many CDL schools offer in-house financing or payment plans. These may come with 0% interest or flexible repayment terms, making them ideal if you can’t pay upfront but want to avoid traditional loans.
Be sure to ask your school’s financial aid or billing office about:
- Installment plans
- Partner lender options
- Any fees or interest charged
5. Federal student loans (for eligible programs only)
If your school participates in Title IV, you may be eligible for federal student loans. These include:
- Direct Subsidized Loans (based on need)
- Direct Unsubsidized Loans (not need-based)
- PLUS Loans (for parents or graduate-level training)
You’ll need to file the FAFSA to access federal loans. But keep in mind, not all CDL programs qualify.
6. Private student loans
Private student loans can help fill the gap if you’re ineligible for federal aid or need additional funding.
Top private lenders for CDL training include:
| Company | Best for… | Rating (0-5) |
|---|---|---|
| Best for No Fees | ||
| Best for Comparison Shopping | ||
| Best Student Loan Advisors |
Most lenders require a decent credit score or a cosigner, and rates vary. Be sure to compare offers and prequalify when possible.
7. Career training and personal loans
If your program isn’t eligible for student loans, a career training or personal loan might be a better fit. These loans don’t require enrollment in a degree-granting program and can be used for trade schools, certifications, or bootcamps.
If you think a personal loan might be your best bet, we think these lenders offer the best personal loans available:
| Company | Best for… | Rating (0-5) |
|---|---|---|
| Best marketplace | ||
| Best for good credit | ||
| Best for fair credit | ||
| Best for excellent credit | ||
| Best for little to no credit | ||
| Best for a secured loan |
How to apply for CDL financial aid or loans
The application process differs depending on the types of aid you’re seeking.
Apply for grants, scholarships, or state aid
Start by asking your school about available scholarships. Also, contact your state’s workforce development or labor office to ask about WIOA, SNAP Employment & Training, or local training grants.
Apply for federal student loans
If your CDL school accepts federal aid, you’ll need to:
- File the FAFSA
- Submit supporting documents (taxes, ID, school info)
- Review your Student Aid Report (SAR)
- Accept aid via your financial aid award letter
Apply for private or personal loans
Visit the lender’s website to:
- Fill out a basic application
- Provide personal and financial details
- Add a cosigner (if needed)
- Review and accept your offer
Funds may be disbursed to the school or directly to you, depending on the lender and loan type.
Recap: Best lenders for CDL training loans in 2025
If you need to take out loans for your training, and you’re getting CDL training through a Title IV school, we recommend checking out these lenders first.
| Lender | Best for | Our rating |
| U.S. Dept. of Education | Federal loans | Not rated |
| Earnest | No fees | 4.7 |
| Credible | Comparison shopping | 4.6 |
| ELFI | Student loan advisors | 4.5 |
If you want to get your CDL in 2025 but can’t afford training out of pocket, you have options. Start with grants, scholarships, and employer-sponsored programs. Explore state and unemployment office aid. Then compare loans and payment plans to find the most affordable path.
Getting your CDL can open the door to a stable, well-paying career—so don’t let the cost stop you from getting started.
About our contributors
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Written by Rebecca Lake, CEPF®Rebecca Lake is a certified educator in personal finance (CEPF®) and freelance writer specializing in finance.