CDL Schools USA is an independent directory that lists and verifies FMCSA-registered commercial driver's license (CDL) training providers across the United States. This page contains 9 verified training programs serving the Dubuque, Iowa area.

FMCSA VERIFIED 2025

CDL Schools in Dubuque, IA

Are you looking for commercial driver training in Dubuque?We have identified 9 FMCSA-verified programs serving the Dubuque area (Pop: 59,667).

Quick Stats

9 Training Programs
ELDT Compliant
3-8 Week Programs
Pop: 59,667

Quick Facts: CDL Training in Dubuque, IA

CDL License Types
Class A, Class B, Class C
Average Training Cost
$3,000 – $8,000
Program Length
3-8 weeks
Weekend / Evening Options
Available at select schools
FMCSA Registration Required
Yes
Verified Schools
9

Local CDL training answer

How should students compare CDL schools in Dubuque, IA?

Students comparing CDL schools in Dubuque, IA should first confirm that the provider is listed in the FMCSA Training Provider Registry for the CDL class or endorsement they need. Then compare tuition, behind-the-wheel hours, public enrollment status, manual or automatic transmission training, weekend or evening schedules, and whether the program supports WIOA, veteran benefits, job placement, or employer-sponsored training. This page lists 9 training programsserving the Dubuque area and is intended to help students request information without exposing private school contact data publicly.

9 CDL Schools Near Dubuque

East Dubuque Public Schools

East Dubuque, IL
2 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified
+1 815-747-3188

Northeast Iowa Community College

Peosta, IA
10 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified
+1 844-642-2338

Lancaster Community Schools

Lancaster, WI
24.2 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified
+1 608-723-7483

Cdl.l.l.c.

Maquoketa, IA
26.8 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified
+1 563-320-2102

Fennimore Community Schools

Fennimore, WI
33.6 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified
+1 608-822-3111

Anamosa Maintenance Garage IDOT

Anamosa, IA
41.5 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified
+1 319-462-3676

Elkader Iowa Dept. of Transportation

Elkader, IA
44.8 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified
+1 563-245-2724

Cattle Drive Express

Strawberry Point, IA
46.1 miles away
+1 563-920-8907

CDL Training in Dubuque, Iowa

Dubuque, Iowa offers 9 FMCSA-verified CDL training programs for aspiring commercial drivers in 2026. Whether you need a Class A CDL for tractor-trailers or a Class B CDL for straight trucks, compare the programs below by tuition, training length, public enrollment status, and available endorsements. Full-time CDL training often takes 4-8 weeks, while part-time, evening, and weekend options may take longer. Before enrolling, confirm the provider is listed in the FMCSA Training Provider Registry and ask whether the school offers job placement, manual transmission training, WIOA or veteran funding support, and behind-the-wheel practice that matches your target CDL class.

Why Get CDL Training Near Dubuque?

  • Local Training: Train close to home with familiar roads and traffic patterns
  • Job Placement: Many local trucking companies hire graduates directly
  • Financial Aid: Schools in Iowa often qualify for WIOA grants and veteran benefits
  • ELDT Compliance: All listed schools meet federal ELDT requirements effective February 2022

CDL Training Costs in Iowa

CDL training in Iowa typically ranges from $3,000 to $8,000 for private schools, with community colleges offering programs from $2,000 to $5,000. Many trucking companies also offer paid CDL training programs with a 1-2 year employment commitment.

Trucking Jobs Near Dubuque

Get hired after you complete your CDL training

$45,000 - $75,000
Average annual salary for CDL drivers in Iowa
2,500+
Open trucking positions in Iowa

Top employers hiring near Dubuque: Amazon, Walmart, UPS, FedEx, Werner Enterprises, Schneider National, Swift Transportation, and regional carriers.

Job types available: Local delivery, regional routes, OTR (Over-the-Road), dedicated routes, tanker, flatbed, and refrigerated transport.

Compare CDL Schools in Dubuque

Side-by-side comparison of top training programs

⚙️ Transmission:
Showing 9 schools
School Name
City
Program TypesKey FeaturesContact
Class AClass BHazmat
Weekend ClassesVA Approved
Cattle Drive Express
FMCSA Verified
Class AClass B
Weekend ClassesVA Approved
Cdl.l.l.c.
FMCSA Verified
Class AClass B
Weekend Classes
Class AClass BTanker
Manual Trans.Evening Classes
Class AClass B
Manual Trans.Weekend Classes
Class AClass BTanker
Manual Trans.Evening ClassesVA Approved
Class AClass BHazmat
Manual Trans.
Class ATanker
Weekend ClassesEvening ClassesVA Approved
Class ATanker
Manual Trans.

Tuition Costs in Dubuque

Avg. Private School
$4,500
Avg. Public School
$3,000
Price Range
$2,600 - $5,800

Strong community college system.

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CDL Testing & DOT MVD in Dubuque

Schedule your CDL knowledge and skills tests through your local DOT MVD office. Find testing locations, wait times, and required documents.

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Frequently Asked Questions About CDL Training in Dubuque

How long does CDL training take in Dubuque?
CDL training programs in Dubuque, IA typically take 3-8 weeks for full-time students. Part-time programs may take 3-6 months. Company-sponsored programs often run 4-6 weeks with guaranteed job placement upon completion.
How much does CDL school cost in Iowa?
CDL training costs in Iowa range from $3,000-$10,000 for private schools, $1,500-$5,000 at community colleges, and FREE through company-sponsored programs (with employment commitment). Many schools accept WIOA grants, GI Bill benefits, and offer payment plans.
Can I get a CDL in Dubuque without quitting my job?
Yes, several CDL schools in the Dubuque area offer weekend and evening classes for working adults. These flexible schedules allow you to earn your CDL while keeping your current job. Weekend programs typically take 8-16 weeks to complete.
How do I know if a CDL school in Dubuque is legitimate?
All legitimate CDL schools must be registered in the FMCSA Training Provider Registry (TPR) at tpr.fmcsa.dot.gov. You can verify any school there. Be wary of schools that promise a CDL in less than 2 weeks or cannot provide their TPR registration number. The FMCSA removed over 550 non-compliant providers in 2025-2026 alone.
Do I need ELDT training to get a CDL?
Yes, as of February 2022, all first-time CDL applicants must complete Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) from an FMCSA-registered training provider before taking the CDL skills test. All schools listed on CDL Schools USA are ELDT-compliant. The ELDT requirement includes both theory instruction (30+ hours) and behind-the-wheel training.
Can I get financial aid for CDL school in Iowa?
Yes, several funding options exist for CDL training in Iowa: WIOA (Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act) grants, Pell Grants at eligible community colleges, VA benefits for veterans, and company-sponsored training programs. Contact individual schools to learn about their specific financial aid options.
What is the job outlook for CDL drivers near Dubuque?
The CDL driver job outlook near Dubuque, IA is strong. The American Trucking Associations reports a shortage of 80,000+ drivers nationally, with Iowa experiencing above-average demand. Starting salaries for new CDL graduates typically range from $45,000-$55,000, with experienced drivers earning $65,000-$80,000. Many carriers offer signing bonuses of $5,000-$15,000 for qualified CDL holders.
Should I get a Class A or Class B CDL in Dubuque?
The choice depends on your career goals. A Class A CDL allows you to drive any commercial vehicle including tractor-trailers (18-wheelers)—this opens the most job opportunities and highest pay. A Class B CDL limits you to straight trucks, buses, and dump trucks but is sufficient for local delivery, waste management, and transit jobs. Most Dubuque CDL schools offer both options. If unsure, get the Class A—it qualifies you for Class B jobs too.