If you're planning on getting your commercial driver's license, attending a CDL training program is a non-negotiable step. The FMCSA (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration) now requires new drivers to attend a certified training program before taking their test for either Class A or Class B licenses. Of course, attending a training program offers numerous benefits above and beyond federal requirements.

However, before selecting a program to launch your new career, you'll need to make a critical decision: private or company-sponsored? Private training programs are more like regular schools, while company-sponsored schools quickly get you up to speed and directly onto a job. While the latter choice has numerous advantages, there are still situations where private training may be right for you.

Why Choose a Private School?

If company-sponsored schools guarantee a job right out of the gate, why would you want to attend a private school? Ultimately, the answer depends on your goals. Company-sponsored or paid schools will typically include a contractual obligation to work for the sponsoring company after graduation. These contracts usually aren't too long, but it's a factor that's worth considering.

In particular, going with a paid school means you won't be able to strike out on your own as an owner-operator without first going through your contractual period. While most entry-level drivers don't take this path, some do. If your primary goal with obtaining a CDL is to drive for yourself, then a paid school might not be the best option.

Finally, it's worth considering the differing environments. You can think of company-sponsored schools as on-the-job training, often with higher workloads over a shorter period of time. For some people, this environment may be ideal. For others, the slower pace of a private school may be more appropriate. If pacing is an issue for you, it may be worth comparing the lengths of private and paid programs.

Is One Option Better?

The good news is that there's no wrong choice between private and paid programs. If you're committed to obtaining your CDL and starting a career on the road, either option will get you where you need to go. However, it's still worth taking the time to think hard about your specific needs, budget, and long-term career goals.

It's also worth remembering that even schools within the same category won't necessarily be identical. Some private schools may have relationships with certain trucking companies, and some companies may not offer any paid training programs at all. The best way to make CDL training work for you is to consider all of these factors and, most importantly, commit to and follow through with your choice.

For more information on class A CDL driver training, contact a professional near you.