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How Much Do Truck Drivers Make? And How to Afford CDL Training

By Danielle Brooks3 min read
CareerFinanceTrainingNew Drivers
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How Much Do Truck Drivers Make? And How to Afford CDL Training

A career in truck driving can be incredibly rewarding—not just in terms of freedom and lifestyle, but financially too. But for those just getting started, two big questions often come up: "How much can I make?" and "How do I pay for training?"

Let’s break it all down.

Truck Driving Salary: What to Expect

While pay can vary based on experience, region, and the type of driving you do, here's a general idea of what new and experienced drivers can expect:

Entry-Level (0–1 Year)

  • Annual Pay Range: $45,000 – $65,000
  • Typical Roles: Company driver, regional hauls, training roles
  • Benefits: Paid orientation, health insurance, sign-on bonuses

Mid-Level (2–5 Years)

  • Annual Pay Range: $65,000 – $85,000
  • Typical Roles: Over-the-road (OTR), specialized freight (flatbed, tanker)

Experienced (5+ Years)

  • Annual Pay Range: $85,000 – $120,000+
  • Typical Roles: Owner-operator, hazmat, long-haul, dedicated contracts

Some drivers even break six figures their first year with overtime, bonuses, and specialized routes.

What Affects Your Earnings?

  • Type of Freight: Tankers and flatbeds typically pay more
  • Mileage vs Hourly: Some jobs pay per mile, others per hour—each has pros and cons
  • Bonuses & Incentives: Many companies offer safety, fuel, and performance bonuses
  • Home Time: Local jobs offer more home time but may pay less than OTR roles

How to Afford CDL Training

Truck driving pays well—but what if you're not sure how to afford training upfront? Here are several ways to fund your journey:

1. State and Workforce Grants

Many states offer workforce development programs that cover part or all of your tuition. In Arizona, for example, you may qualify for Arizona@Work funding.

2. Native American Partnerships

Truck Driving Schools of America partners with the Phoenix Indian Center, which helps Native American students receive full tuition coverage through workforce grants.

3. Veteran Benefits

If you're a military veteran, you may be eligible for tuition assistance through VA programs. Ask us how you can apply your benefits to CDL training.

4. Pay-over-Time Plans

We offer flexible in-house financing options that let you spread out your payments over time. No credit? No problem. These plans are designed with accessibility in mind.

5. Employer Sponsorship

Some trucking companies offer tuition reimbursement or even free training in exchange for a driving commitment. We can help you explore your options.

Investing in Your Future

Think of CDL training as a short-term investment with long-term rewards:

  • Training Duration: 3–4 weeks
  • Average First-Year Salary: $60,000+
  • Time to ROI: Many students recoup training costs within their first few months on the job

Why Choose Truck Driving Schools of America?

We offer competency-based training, meaning you graduate when you're ready—not when the calendar says so. Plus:

  • Small class sizes: 4 students per instructor
  • New classes start every Monday
  • Financing and job placement support available

Final Thoughts

Truck driving is one of the few careers where you can go from training to a high-earning job in just a few weeks. Whether you're changing careers, coming out of the military, or simply looking for a stable income, it's one of the smartest financial moves you can make in 2025.

At Truck Driving Schools of America, we’re committed to helping you get there—with the training, the resources, and the financial support to make it all possible.

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