How much does CDL training cost in California?
Full Class A CDL training in Southern California runs $2,000 to $6,000 depending on the school and hours. Nixon Trucking School in Pomona charges $2,000 for the Standard package (15 behind-the-wheel hours and one DMV skills test trip) and $2,500 for Premier (30 hours). ELDT theory is $20 online. Add the DOT physical, the DMV fees, and if you want it, the hazmat TSA fee. Start with $300 down and pay as you train.
Nixon pricing
- Standard: $2,000 - 15 hours, 1 DMV test trip
- Premier: $2,500 - 30 hours
- Class B to A upgrade: $1,200
- ELDT theory online: $20
- Truck rental for your DMV test (if you trained elsewhere): $700
What drives the price at other schools
Hours behind the wheel, students per truck, whether the DMV test trip is included, and whether theory is bundled at a markup. Ask every school: how many hours, how many students share a truck, and is the test trip included?
Ways to pay
$300 down and pay as you go, Affirm and Klarna style financing through the Nixon site, DOR and WIOA vouchers, workers comp retraining vouchers, and employer sponsorship.
Related questions
Is there free CDL training in California?
If you qualify for DOR, WIOA or a workers comp retraining voucher, your training can be fully covered. Nixon accepts all three.
How much is the down payment at Nixon?
$300 starts training. The balance is cleared before your DMV skills test.
Reviewed September 2026 by Nixon Trucking School, Pomona CA. Fees quoted for the DMV and TSA change; check dmv.ca.gov and tsa.gov for current amounts.