Roehl's training pay structure and what it covers

Roehl Transportation covers the cost of your Commercial Driver's License (CDL) training through their company-sponsored program, meaning you do not pay tuition upfront. Instead, Roehl enrolls you in their training and you begin earning pay during the training period itself — typically starting at around $600 to $700 per week while you complete classroom and behind-the-wheel instruction. The exact amount varies based on the training location and current company rates.

Once you pass your CDL exam and move to the road training phase with a mentor driver, your pay increases. During this phase, you generally earn between $700 and $800 per week, though this also depends on the specific terminal and current pay scales. After you complete road training and are cleared to drive independently, you move to Roehl's standard pay structure for new drivers, which starts around $0.35 to $0.40 per mile — again, this varies by hiring period and freight type.

The key difference between Roehl and many other carriers is that you are paid during training rather than paying a school directly. This means you cover your living expenses during the training period with the weekly pay you receive, though you will also be responsible for your own housing, food, and transportation to and from the training location unless Roehl provides housing at that terminal.

Key Takeaways

  • Roehl covers CDL training costs directly rather than requiring you to pay a school; you earn weekly pay during the entire training process.
  • Training pay typically ranges from $600 to $800 per week depending on whether you are in classroom instruction or road training with a mentor.
  • After completing road training, you transition to per-mile pay, which starts around $0.35 to $0.40 per mile for new drivers.
  • You are responsible for your own living expenses during training, though some Roehl terminals may offer housing information or arrangements.
  • Actual pay amounts vary by training location, hiring period, and freight type, so confirm current rates directly with your Roehl recruiter.

How the training timeline affects your earnings

Roehl's training program typically lasts four to six weeks from start to finish. The first two to three weeks are usually classroom and range training at a Roehl terminal, where you earn the lower training rate. During this phase, you are learning air brake systems, vehicle inspection, basic driving maneuvers, and passing the written CDL exam.

The next two to three weeks are spent on the road with a mentor driver, during which your pay increases slightly because you are now operating a truck in real conditions. Your mentor evaluates your performance, and Roehl uses this period to decide whether you are ready to drive solo. Once your mentor signs off, you move off the training pay scale and onto the company's standard driver pay, which is calculated per mile rather than per week.

The total amount you earn during training depends on how quickly you progress. If you complete the program in four weeks, you will earn roughly $2,400 to $3,200 in training pay. If it takes six weeks, you could earn $2,800 to $4,000. These are rough estimates and do not account for any bonuses, orientation pay, or other adjustments Roehl may offer in specific hiring periods.

What happens after you finish road training

Once you are cleared to drive independently, you stop receiving weekly training pay and move to Roehl's standard pay model. For new drivers, this is typically a per-mile rate rather than an hourly wage. The starting rate for new drivers has historically been in the $0.35 to $0.40 per mile range, though this fluctuates based on market conditions, freight demand, and when you were hired.

Your actual weekly or monthly earnings depend on how many miles you drive. If you average 2,000 miles per week at $0.38 per mile, you would earn around $760 per week before taxes and deductions. However, some weeks you may drive fewer miles due to dispatch, maintenance, or waiting time, which affects your paycheck. Roehl also offers various pay increases and bonuses as you gain experience and tenure with the company.

Many new drivers find the transition from weekly training pay to per-mile pay requires adjustment in budgeting, since your earnings become less predictable. Roehl provides pay stubs and online access to your earnings history so you can track your mileage and pay in real time.

Training locations and whether pay varies by terminal

Roehl operates multiple training terminals across the United States, including locations in Wisconsin, Iowa, and other states. The training pay rates can differ slightly between terminals, and some terminals may offer additional perks such as housing during training or meal discounts. When you are hired, your recruiter will tell you which terminal you are assigned to and what the specific pay and benefits are for that location.

Before you commit to training, ask your recruiter for the exact weekly pay amount at your assigned terminal, whether housing is provided or subsidized, and what your out-of-pocket costs will be during the training period. Some drivers have reported that certain terminals offer better housing arrangements or lower living costs, which can make a real difference in your net earnings during training.

Costs you are responsible for during training

While Roehl pays for your CDL training and provides weekly pay, you are responsible for several expenses. These typically include housing (unless your terminal provides it), meals, personal transportation to and from the terminal, and any personal items you need during training. If you are relocating for training, budget for travel costs to reach the terminal on your start date.

Some drivers live in their own vehicle or find shared housing near the terminal to reduce costs. Others stay in hotels or rental apartments. The cost of living varies significantly by location, so a terminal in rural Iowa may be much cheaper than one in a more urban area. Factor these expenses into your decision about whether the training pay will cover your needs during the program.

Roehl does not typically reimburse you for these personal expenses, though they may offer discounts on certain services or housing partnerships at some terminals. Always clarify what is and is not covered before you start training.

How Roehl's training pay compares to other carriers

Many large trucking companies offer similar training programs where they cover tuition and pay you during training. However, the weekly pay rates and the length of training can vary significantly. Some carriers pay less during training but offer higher per-mile rates afterward, while others do the opposite. Some carriers require you to sign a contract committing you to work for them for a set period after training, with penalties if you leave early.

Roehl's approach of paying you during training rather than requiring upfront tuition is common among major carriers, but the specific rates and contract terms differ. If you are comparing Roehl to other companies, ask each recruiter for their complete training pay schedule, the length of their training program, any contract requirements, and what happens if you do not complete training or decide to leave after finishing.

The per-mile rate you earn after training is often more important to your long-term earnings than the training pay itself, so do not choose a carrier based on training pay alone. Research the company's reputation for dispatch frequency, freight types, and driver retention to understand what your actual earnings might look like six months or a year after you finish training.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to pay Roehl back if I leave before finishing training?

Roehl's training contract typically includes a commitment period. If you leave during or shortly after training, you may owe back a portion of the training costs. The exact terms depend on when you leave and what your contract states. Ask your recruiter for the specific repayment terms before you sign.

Is the training pay taxed?

Yes, your training pay is subject to federal and state income tax, Social Security tax, and Medicare tax, just like regular wages. Your first paycheck will reflect these deductions. Roehl will provide a W-2 at the end of the year for tax purposes.

What if I fail my CDL exam during training?

If you do not pass your CDL exam on the first attempt, Roehl typically allows you to retake it. You will continue to receive training pay during this time, though the exact policy may vary. Discuss this scenario with your recruiter before training begins so you understand what happens if you need additional attempts.

Can I negotiate the training pay rate?

Training pay rates are set by Roehl and are not typically negotiable. However, rates change periodically based on market conditions and hiring demand. If you are hired during a period of high driver demand, the rates may be higher than during slower periods. Ask your recruiter what the current rates are.

Do I earn per-mile pay during road training with a mentor?

No, during road training you earn the higher training weekly rate, not per-mile pay. You transition to per-mile pay only after your mentor signs off and you are cleared to drive solo. This usually happens after two to three weeks on the road.