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CDL training in Iowa
Free and low-cost CDL training in Iowa
Public colleges with CDL programs, grants that can pay your tuition, and companies that will train you for free, with the official Iowa links you need.
Public colleges and career centers with CDL training
These 4 public programs were checked on their own websites. Prices and schedules change, so confirm before you apply.
Northeast Iowa Community College
Calmar, New Hampton, Peosta, Waukon, IAPossible no-cost Career Pathway Certificate; CMVOST grant for eligible veterans.
Program page ↗Hawkeye Community College
Waterloo, IANot federal-aid eligible; Trucking with the Troops grant for military/veterans.
Program page ↗Des Moines Area Community College (Transportation Institute)
Des Moines, IAOnline theory course $140.
Program page ↗Western Iowa Tech Community College
Sioux City, IAEvening classes; tuition assistance may be available; no experience needed.
Program page ↗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 Iowa 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 Iowa
- TMC Transportation (Des Moines), Flatbed (employee-owned)
- CRST (Cedar Rapids), Team driving & dedicated
- Hirschbach Motor Lines (Dubuque), Refrigerated OTR & dedicated
Questions about getting a CDL in Iowa
Can I get a CDL at 18 in Iowa?
Yes. Iowa 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 Iowa?
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 Iowa?
Public programs listed above show prices from Approx. $4,995 tuition and fees, Class A $4,995 (incl. fees, books, testing), Class A $4,760 (incl. fuel fee); Class B $1,500. 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 Iowa 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.