Where to Find CDL Training in Colorado

Colorado has two main paths to CDL training: truck driving schools and employer-sponsored programs. Truck driving schools are private institutions that teach the classroom material, vehicle operation, and air brake systems required by the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT). These schools typically run 4 to 8 weeks and cost between $3,000 and $7,000, though prices vary by location and program length.

Employer-sponsored training is offered by trucking companies, freight carriers, and logistics firms that hire new drivers and train them on the job. These programs often cover tuition costs in exchange for a commitment to work for the company for a set period — usually 1 to 3 years. Some employers partner with schools to provide classroom instruction, then handle the hands-on training themselves.

To find schools in your area, search the Colorado Trucking Association's member directory or contact your local workforce center. Many centers maintain lists of approved schools and can discuss financing options like workforce development grants or Pell Grants if you meet income requirements.

Key Takeaways

  • Colorado requires you to pass a written knowledge test, a pre-trip inspection test, and a road test administered by CDOT before you receive your CDL.
  • You must hold a valid Colorado driver's license and pass a medical examination (DOT physical) before you can take any CDL test.
  • Truck driving schools teach the material and provide the vehicle for testing, while employer programs often cover costs but require you to work for that company afterward.
  • Training typically takes 4 to 8 weeks at a school, though employer programs may take longer because they combine classroom and on-the-job instruction.
  • You will need to pass a background check and drug screening before starting training or employment.

What You Must Have Before Training Starts

Before you enroll in any CDL training program, you need a valid Colorado driver's license and a DOT medical certificate. The medical certificate comes from a certified medical examiner and confirms you meet federal health standards for commercial driving — vision, hearing, blood pressure, and other basic requirements. You can find examiners through the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) website or ask your training school for a referral.

You will also need to pass a background check and drug screening. Most schools and all employers require these before you start. The background check looks for felonies, certain traffic violations, and fraud. The drug screening is typically a urine test that screens for common substances. Some employers test again after hire.

Bring proof of identity (passport, birth certificate, or state ID), Social Security card, and proof of Colorado residency (utility bill or lease) when you enroll. Schools will use these to verify your information and register you with CDOT.

The Three Tests You Must Pass

Colorado's CDL process requires three separate tests, all administered by CDOT. The written knowledge test covers federal and state commercial driving rules, vehicle maintenance, cargo handling, and safety procedures. You can take this test at any CDOT office and retake it if you fail — there is no limit on attempts, though you must wait 7 days between failures.

The pre-trip inspection test requires you to walk around and inspect a commercial vehicle, pointing out safety features and identifying potential problems. You must demonstrate knowledge of lights, brakes, tires, mirrors, coupling devices, and other components. This test is pass-or-fail and is usually administered by your training school or a CDOT examiner.

The road test is the final hurdle. You drive a commercial vehicle on public roads while a CDOT examiner observes. The examiner watches how you handle acceleration, braking, turning, lane changes, backing, and parking. You must demonstrate safe operation and knowledge of traffic laws. If you fail any test, you can retake it, but you must pass all three before CDOT issues your CDL.

Class A, Class B, and Endorsements

Colorado issues Class A CDLs for vehicles over 26,000 pounds, which includes most tractor-trailers and large trucks. Class B CDLs are for single vehicles over 26,000 pounds that are not tractor-trailers — think dump trucks or cement mixers. Most truck driving schools train for Class A because the job market is larger.

Endorsements are add-ons to your CDL that allow you to haul specific cargo or operate certain vehicle types. The Hazmat endorsement allows you to transport hazardous materials and requires a separate written test and a Transportation Security Administration (TSA) background check. The Tanker endorsement is for vehicles carrying liquids in bulk. The Doubles/Triples endorsement allows you to pull multiple trailers. Some training programs include endorsement preparation; others charge extra.

How Long Training Takes and What It Costs

Classroom-based training at a truck driving school typically runs 4 to 8 weeks, depending on the program. Some schools offer accelerated programs that compress the material into 3 weeks, though these are more intense. The cost ranges from $3,000 to $7,000 for tuition alone. Some schools include the DOT medical exam, testing fees, and study materials in the price; others charge separately.

Employer-sponsored training has no upfront cost to you, but the timeline is longer because you combine classroom instruction with on-the-job training. This can take 6 weeks to 6 months depending on the company. In exchange, you commit to working for that employer — if you leave before the commitment period ends, you may owe back tuition.

Financing options include personal savings, loans from banks or credit unions, workforce development grants through your local workforce center, and employer tuition reimbursement. Some schools offer payment plans. The Colorado Department of Labor and Employment may have information about grants or subsidized training for workers in certain industries or income brackets.

What Happens After You Pass Your Tests

Once you pass all three tests, CDOT issues your Commercial Driver's License. Your CDL is valid for 8 years in Colorado. You will need to renew it before expiration, and you must pass a medical examination again every 2 years to maintain your DOT medical certificate — your CDL becomes invalid if your medical certificate expires.

If you obtained your CDL through a training school, you are now job-ready and can explore to trucking companies, freight carriers, or owner-operator positions. If you trained through an employer, you move into your assigned role and begin your commitment period. Most employers require you to log a certain number of miles or hours before you can operate independently.

Keep your CDL and medical certificate with you at all times when driving commercially. Violations, accidents, or failed drug tests can result in suspension or revocation. Colorado also requires you to report certain traffic violations to CDOT within 30 days.

School Selection: What to Compare

When choosing a truck driving school, compare the length of the program, total cost, and what is included in tuition. Ask whether the school provides the vehicle for your road test or whether you must rent one separately. Check whether instructors are certified and whether the school is accredited by the Professional Truck Driver Institute (PTDI) or similar body — accreditation does not may provide quality, but it signals that the school meets certain standards.

Ask about job placement information. Some schools have relationships with trucking companies and can refer graduates directly. Others offer none. Ask whether the school covers endorsement training or charges extra. Find out the pass rate for the road test — if the school's pass rate is significantly lower than the state average, that may indicate weak instruction.

Read reviews from former students on Google, Indeed, or trucking forums, but remember that reviews are self-selected — satisfied students are less likely to post than frustrated ones. Call the school and ask to speak with a current student or recent graduate if possible.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get my CDL if I have a DUI or traffic violations?

A single DUI or traffic violation does not automatically disqualify you, but serious or recent violations may. CDOT reviews your driving record as part of the CDL process. Contact CDOT directly or ask your training school to review your record before you enroll, so you know whether you are may be able to access.

Do I need to be a Colorado resident to get a CDL here?

No. You must have a valid Colorado driver's license, but you can obtain one as a non-resident. You will need proof of identity and proof of Colorado residency (such as a lease or utility bill in your name) to get the driver's license. Some people move to Colorado temporarily to obtain their CDL, then relocate.

What is the difference between training at a school and training with an employer?

Schools give you flexibility — you pay upfront, train on your schedule, and can work for any company afterward. Employers cover costs but require you to work for them for a set period, usually 1 to 3 years. If you leave early, you may owe tuition. Schools are faster; employer programs take longer but provide income during training.

How much do truck drivers make in Colorado after getting their CDL?

Pay varies widely by company, experience, and route. Entry-level drivers typically earn $40,000 to $55,000 per year; experienced drivers earn $60,000 to $80,000 or more. Owner-operators and hazmat drivers often earn higher rates. Ask companies you are interested in about their starting pay and benefits.

Can I take the CDL tests without attending a training school?

Yes, Colorado allows you to test without formal training if you have the knowledge and experience. However, you must still pass the written test, pre-trip inspection, and road test. Most people without training fail the road test because they lack hands-on experience with a commercial vehicle. Training schools exist because the tests are difficult without instruction.