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CDL training in Virginia
Free and low-cost CDL training in Virginia
Public colleges with CDL programs, grants that can pay your tuition, and companies that will train you for free, with the official Virginia links you need.
Public colleges and career centers with CDL training
These 7 public programs were checked on their own websites. Prices and schedules change, so confirm before you apply.
Danville Community College
Danville, VACLP required before class; DMV-approved program; limited funding assistance.
Program page ↗Laurel Ridge Community College
Middletown, VAAlso Luray-Page County Center; FastForward-eligible residents pay one-third or less.
Program page ↗Virginia Western Community College
VirginiaDelivered with CDS Tractor Trailer Training; classes start every two weeks.
Program page ↗Tidewater Community College
Portsmouth, VACareer Studies Certificate at Portsmouth Campus; admission is selective.
Program page ↗Southwest Virginia Community College
VirginiaFunding can fully cover tuition for qualifying residents; manual endorsement offered.
Program page ↗Southside Virginia Community College
VirginiaTruck Driving Training listed on workforce non-credit page; prices subject to change.
Program page ↗Mountain Gateway Community College
VirginiaFastForward may cut tuition by two-thirds for qualifying residents.
Program page ↗Virginia programs that can help pay
- FastForward: Virginia community college short-term credential program where the Commonwealth covers up to two-thirds of the cost for eligible students, including CDL courses at many colleges. Details ↗
Ways to get your CDL paid for
- WIOA grant. Visit a local American Job Center and ask about WIOA training funds. If you qualify (often people who are unemployed, laid off or on a low income), the grant can cover tuition at a school on the state’s approved training provider list.
- Company-paid training. The carriers below train new drivers. You usually agree to drive for them for 6 to 12 months, and may owe part of the cost if you leave early.
- Paid Class B training. School districts, transit agencies and bus companies in Virginia often pay you while you train.
- GI Bill. Veterans can use GI Bill benefits for approved non-college programs, including truck driving school.
Trucking companies that train new drivers
Local jobs that train you for a CDL
Trucking companies based in Virginia
- Estes Express Lines (Richmond), LTL: city and linehaul
Questions about getting a CDL in Virginia
Can I get a CDL at 18 in Virginia?
Yes. Virginia lets you hold a CDL at 18, but until you turn 21 you can only drive within the state and can’t haul hazardous materials. Many local jobs, like beverage and construction routes, hire 18 to 20 year olds.
Is there free CDL training in Virginia?
Often, yes. If you qualify, a WIOA grant from your local American Job Center can pay tuition at an approved school. Several trucking companies also train new drivers for free in exchange for a work commitment, and many school districts and transit agencies pay you while you train for a Class B.
How much does CDL school cost in Virginia?
Public programs listed above show prices from $6,000 tuition, About $6,000; $2,000 with FastForward, $4,500 full cost; $1,500 with FastForward. Ask about books, testing fees and the DOT physical, which may not be included.
How long does it take to get a CDL?
Most full-time Class A programs take 3 to 8 weeks. You also need a DOT medical card and a learner’s permit before behind-the-wheel training, and a skills test at the end.
Fuel prices, CDL schools, freight corridors and carriers near you.
Sources: official Virginia licensing and workforce pages linked above, each school’s own program page, FMCSA, and EIA fuel prices (week of Nov 2, 2026). Checked Nov 9, 2026. Programs, prices and dates change, so confirm with the school before you apply.