Best CDL schools in the San Fernando Valley, CA

Discussion in 'Questions From New Drivers' started by Dm6464, Jan 19, 2026.

  1. Dm6464

    Dm6464 Bobtail Member

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    Hello, I'm going to be attending CDL school starting in March 2025. My concern is the required minimum 120 hours training from an accredited school most employers are seeking. The schools I've spoken to don't provide the 120 hours but will vouch that you've completed those hours. I don't want to lie to a new employer. And suggestions? Also, any suggestions on accredited schools located in The San Fernando Valley, CA? My zip code is 91311
    Thank you for your help.
     
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  3. Chinatown

    Chinatown Road Train Member

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    Many cdl schools these days have lots of online classes as part of the training which may not count toward the total hours.
    A search showed 10 cdl schools near you. I'm assuming you contacted each of them already.
     
  4. Dm6464

    Dm6464 Bobtail Member

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    Hey, thank you for the reply. I've spoken to 4 or 5 near me but only 2 if them are accredited. Both of them are telling me I don't need the 120 hours to pass the test which I realize and agree. I do need the hours in order to not mislead a potential employer though. Also, maybe I'm over thinking this but I think it might be obvious someone didn't get those hours based on their knowledge after they're hired.
     
  5. Chinatown

    Chinatown Road Train Member

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    Most companies will hire with 120 hours. Some require 140 hrs. or 160 hours. Either way, go with one of the accredited schools. Also ask which companies visit the school looking for drivers and also which companies do the schools use to place drivers. We can give you, probably, another 10 company names that will hire you.
    What type trucking job do you want after graduation?
     
    Flat Earth Trucker Thanks this.
  6. tscottme

    tscottme Road Train Member

    I strongly suggest you find the employer you WANT to work for and then go to whatever school they recommend. You don't pick what restaurant to eat at by first and only considering parking. The goal should be a job you can stay at for AT LEAST 1 year. It takes longer to answer that question than to find a CDL school, right? CDL school just gets you to pass the state exam. The other 95% of what you need to know comes from your first employer.

    Depending on how often you need time off/get home, you may want to strongly prefer companies with a terminal near you.
    Truthfully, CA is so out of control and falling fast that many companies just won't hire drivers with CA licenses. CA tax regulations punish employers and employers just say, bye.
     
  7. Dm6464

    Dm6464 Bobtail Member

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    Jan 19, 2026
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    I've been looking at "CDL no experience" job postings. Most seem to be dry van or refrigerated. A few of them are the western 11 which I'd prefer if possible. I'd take the highest paying of the two. I'm open to flatbed too but I'm 61 and not sure if I could handle the tarping. One of the schools mentioned local ready mix companies. I'm open minded until I get my 6 months to a year experience. Are you familiar with companies in my area other than the mega carriers who will hire with no experience? Thank you again for your help.
     
    Chinatown Thanks this.
  8. Dm6464

    Dm6464 Bobtail Member

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    Jan 19, 2026
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    Thank you for the reply. I've only found a few who will hire with zero experience. They say any accredited school with 120 hours training. I've got a couple pre hire letters. Nobody has mentioned not hiring out of California. Hopefully I won't run into that issue. Thank you again.
     
  9. Chinatown

    Chinatown Road Train Member

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    I'll find a few names for you.
    Why aren't you interested in Mega companies?
    Which companies gave you a pre-hire?
     
  10. Chinatown

    Chinatown Road Train Member

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    Driftwood Dairy in El Monte.
    Teamsters benefits, free health insurance, retirement plan which I think you're vested for in 5 years.
    [​IMG]
     
    074344 Thanks this.
  11. Chinatown

    Chinatown Road Train Member

    77,402
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