How to Become an Apprentice CDL Truck Driver (Step-by-Step Guide)
Getting your CDL and starting a truck driving career is one of the fastest paths into a well-paying trade. Here's everything you need to know about CDL training programs, what they cost, and what to expect.
What Is CDL Training?
CDL training is a structured program that teaches you how to safely operate commercial vehicles and prepares you for the CDL exam. Programs range from 3-week accelerated courses to 8-week comprehensive training at community colleges.
Unlike most trade apprenticeships that take years, CDL training gets you behind the wheel fast. You'll learn vehicle inspection, basic controls, backing maneuvers, and road driving. After passing your CDL test, most carriers put you through an additional supervised driving period before you go solo.
Pay During Your Training
During CDL training you typically aren't earning a wage, but many carriers will pay for your training if you agree to drive for them for 1-2 years. Once you're on the road, starting pay is around $16.46/hr or roughly $34,200/yr.
How to Apply
- 1
Meet the basic requirements
You'll need a high school diploma or GED, be at least 18, have a valid driver's license, and be able to pass a drug test. Some programs also require basic math and reading aptitude tests.
- 2
Research programs in your area
Check with local Teamsters halls, community colleges, and trade schools. Compare union and non-union options. Talk to people who've been through the programs if you can.
- 3
Apply during the enrollment window
Most apprenticeship programs accept applications once or twice a year. Don't miss the window -- mark it on your calendar and have your documents ready ahead of time.
- 4
Ace the interview
Show up on time, dress professionally, and be honest about why you want to enter the trade. They want to see that you're reliable, motivated, and willing to put in the work. Prior construction experience helps but isn't always required.
- 5
Start learning and earning
Once accepted, you'll begin working immediately. Show up early, ask questions, and soak up everything the journeymen teach you. Your first year is about proving yourself and building a strong foundation.
What to Expect
CDL training is intensive. You'll spend the first few days in a classroom learning regulations, vehicle inspection procedures, and trip planning. Then you move to a training yard to practice backing, turning, and coupling/uncoupling. Finally, you'll get behind the wheel on public roads with an instructor.
After you earn your CDL, your first few weeks will be spent with a trainer in the cab. You'll learn real-world skills like trip planning, backing into docks, and dealing with bad weather. Most companies assign a mentor driver for your first 4-8 weeks.
The hours are long and the lifestyle takes adjustment. OTR drivers may be away from home for 2-3 weeks at a time when starting out. Regional and local routes become available as you gain experience.
Union vs Non-Union Training
Teamsters-affiliated CDL programs tend to be more structured and often lead to higher-paying union positions. Carrier-sponsored programs are faster and free, but may lock you into a contract for 1-2 years. Both paths get you on the road.
Non-union apprenticeships are often easier to find and get into. Quality varies -- some are excellent, others are basically just cheap labor. Do your research before committing.
Read our full union vs non-union cdl truck driver breakdown →Top CDL Truck Driver Training Programs
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Teamsters CDL training programs
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Carrier-sponsored CDL training (Schneider, Werner, Swift)
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Community college CDL programs
Contact your local Teamsters chapter or visit their website to find programs near you.
Frequently Asked Questions
CDL Truck Driver apprentices typically start at about 40-50% of the journeyman rate, which works out to roughly $9.68/hr in the first year. Pay increases each year as you gain skills and experience, reaching about 90% of the journeyman rate by the final year of your apprenticeship.
CDL training programs typically take 3-8 weeks for the classroom and driving portions. Some carrier-sponsored programs are even shorter. After training, most new drivers go through a supervised driving period of several weeks before going solo.
Most cdl truck driver apprenticeship programs require a high school diploma or GED. Some programs also look at math skills and mechanical aptitude. A clean driving record and the ability to pass a drug test are typically required. You don't need any prior trade experience to apply.
Union apprenticeships (like those through the Teamsters) tend to be more structured, with set curricula and guaranteed pay scales. Non-union apprenticeships may be more flexible but vary widely in quality. Union programs often provide free training, while non-union routes sometimes involve trade school tuition.
Absolutely. There's no maximum age for most apprenticeship programs. Many people switch careers into the trades in their 30s, 40s, and even 50s. Your life experience and work ethic can actually be advantages. The key is being physically able to handle the work and willing to start at the bottom of the pay scale.