A Guide to Obtaining a CDL for Those with No Experience

Why Consider a CDL Career?

Drive Your Future Forward – Get Your CDL and Start Earning Faster Than You Think

In today’s job market, finding a stable, well-paying career that offers both independence and security can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. But there’s one industry that continues to grow, pays well from day one, and welcomes newcomers with open arms: commercial trucking. And the key to unlocking this opportunity? Your Commercial Driver’s License (CDL).

The U.S. trucking industry is the backbone of the economy, moving over 70% of all goods across the nation. With driver shortages at historic highs, companies are eager to hire reliable, motivated individuals—and they’re willing to offer attractive pay and benefits to get them on board.

Starting pay that rivals many college-degree jobs

Steady work year-round – goods still need to move in every season

Clear career path – from local deliveries to long-haul routes, the opportunities are endless

Freedom on the road – no office cubicle, no daily traffic jams

The CDL Advantage

A Commercial Driver’s License is more than just a permit—it’s your ticket to a high-demand, high-reward career. With a CDL, you’re qualified to operate commercial trucks, tractor-trailers, and other large vehicles for hire.

Types of CDL:

Class A – For operating tractor-trailers and combination vehicles over 26,001 pounds (most long-haul truckers hold this license).

Class B – For straight trucks, buses, and smaller commercial vehicles.

Class C – For specialized vehicles like hazmat carriers or passenger vans.

Most high-paying trucking jobs require a Class A CDL, which also offers the greatest flexibility in the job market.

How to Get Your CDL Without Breaking the Bank

Many people think getting a CDL means spending thousands of dollars at a private driving school—but that’s not the only option. Several major trucking companies offer company-sponsored CDL training programs, where you can learn to drive, earn your license, and start working—often with little to no upfront cost.

Here’s how it works:

Apply for a company-sponsored program – many accept beginners with no prior trucking experience.

Attend a 3-5 week training course – taught by professional instructors.

Pass your CDL test – with the company covering much (or all) of your training costs.

Start working immediately – earning a steady paycheck while gaining experience.

Some companies may require you to work for them for a certain period in exchange for the paid training—essentially letting you “earn while you learn.”

Who’s Hiring Right Now

Several well-known U.S. trucking companies are actively looking for new drivers and offering paid CDL training, including:

Swift Transportation

Schneider National

CRST Expedited

Prime Inc.

Roehl Transport

These companies operate nationwide, offer competitive pay, and provide clear advancement opportunities. Many also offer benefits packages including health insurance, retirement plans, and bonuses.

What You Can Expect to Earn

New drivers often start with salaries between $50,000 and $65,000 per year, with experienced drivers making $80,000+—and specialized hauling jobs can push earnings even higher.

Additional earning opportunities include:

Sign-on bonuses (often $2,000–$5,000)

Mileage pay increases after 6–12 months

Performance and safety bonuses

And unlike some industries where raises are rare, trucking companies often increase pay based on experience and safe driving records.

Training Timeline – From Application to Paycheck

One of the most attractive aspects of pursuing a CDL is the speed at which you can go from “considering a career change” to “earning a paycheck.”

Typical timeline:

Week 1 – Apply and get accepted into a program

Weeks 2–5 – Complete classroom and on-road training

Week 5 or 6 – Pass your CDL exam

Week 6+ – Start working and earning immediately

In just over a month, you could be in the driver’s seat of your new career.

Requirements to Get Started

While requirements vary by state, most CDL programs require:

Be at least 21 years old for interstate driving (18+ for intrastate)

Hold a valid driver’s license

Clean driving record (minor violations are usually fine)

Pass a Department of Transportation (DOT) physical exam and drug screening

No college degree is required—and many successful drivers enter the field with no prior trucking experience.

Why Now is the Right Time

Industry demand for CDL drivers is at an all-time high. The American Trucking Associations estimates the industry will need over 160,000 new drivers in the next decade. That means more job security, higher wages, and better benefits for those who enter the field now.

In short—this is your window of opportunity.

Steps to Take Today

If you’re ready to take control of your career and start earning in a stable, respected industry, here’s what to do:

Research and choose a CDL training program that fits your needs—company-sponsored if possible.

Submit your application—many have quick online forms.

Prepare for your DOT physical and basic skills assessments.

Commit to the process—within weeks, you could be on the road.

Bottom Line:

The CDL is more than a license—it’s a career passport. Whether you’re looking for higher pay, more independence, or a fresh start, this is your chance to join an industry that moves America forward every single day.