Best Schools in San Diego, CA

160 Driving Academy's San Diego location operates out of 700 N Johnson Ave, Suite E-F, El Cajon, CA 92020, serving the greater San Diego metro area. Part of the nation's largest independent CDL school network (140+ locations, 43 states), the academy was founded in 2012 by Steve Gold and has trained over 35,000 students annually. The four-week CDL Class A program totals 160 hours: 40 hours of classroom instruction and 120 hours of behind-the-wheel training on local roads and highways. The student-to-instructor ratio is 4:1. Training uses day cab tractors, and students use school equipment for their road tests. The San Diego location also offers CDL refresher courses, free ELDT courses, and Hazmat certification. The school is approved by the California Bureau of Private Postsecondary Education (BPPE). Tuition ranges from $4,000 to $6,000 for the full program, but roughly 80% of students qualify for company sponsorship and pay nothing out of pocket. Other financial options include WIOA grants (up to 100% coverage), Climb Credit loans, Edly Income Share Agreements, Liberty Career Finance, and FreeWorld support. Free ELDT training is included. The school participated in the Veterans Village Career Fair, signaling active outreach to veteran job-seekers. Graduates earn an average starting salary of $55,990 and receive job placement assistance through partnerships with 30+ trucking companies. The school holds a 5.0 out of 5 rating based on 3,000+ reviews network-wide and claims above-average graduation rates. The San Diego campus is FMCSA ELDT-compliant and BPPE-approved.

American Trucking School in San Diego is a California CDL training provider serving the greater San Diego County region. The school appears in state and federal training registries and is listed among ELDT-approved CDL schools in the San Diego area. Research indicates this school is likely operated by or affiliated with the America Truck Driving School network, a family-owned California CDL chain with locations in Riverside, Escondido (San Diego County), Santa Ana, and Compton. The San Diego County branch operates out of Escondido at 420 W. Second Ave, offering Class A and Class B CDL programs along with various endorsements. The school provides personalized, one-on-one instruction tailored to each student's experience level — whether a first-time applicant or a seasoned driver returning to the industry. Training covers the full licensing pathway including DOT physicals, written permit prep, and DMV behind-the-wheel testing. Programs are available for Class A, Class B, and specialty endorsements including passenger and school bus. The school is part of a broader Southern California network that has trained thousands of commercial drivers across multiple counties. Note: The entity may reference a distinct "American Trucking School" brand. If this is a separate operation from America Truck Driving School, additional verification is recommended.

C1 Truck Driver Training is a national CDL school chain (c1training.com) with confirmed campuses in Indianapolis IN, Fort Worth TX, and Springfield MO. No confirmed physical campus has been identified in this city. This listing may be a service-area or phantom entry.

United Truck Driving School offers Class A and Class B CDL training programs at multiple locations, including San Diego, Riverside, and Murfreesboro, TN. The schools provide comprehensive instruction, including classroom teaching and behind-the-wheel training, to prepare students for the California CDL skills test. United Truck Driving School emphasizes hands-on experience and personalized attention, with instructors dedicated to helping students achieve their goals. They offer training on both automatic and manual transmissions. United Truck Driving School's Class A CDL program prepares students for entry-level truck driving careers, both over-the-road (OTR) and local. The Class B CDL course is designed for those seeking local truck driving or bus driving jobs. Some locations also offer a Class A CDL + Passenger program, combining training from both classes to increase job opportunities. United Truck Driving School in Fresno, CA, stands out by allowing students to create their own schedules and offering job placement assistance after graduation. The Murfreesboro, TN location has been praised for its outstanding and professional staff. The San Diego campus provides a balance of urban and rural roadways for real-world driving scenarios. With multiple locations and a range of programs, United Truck Driving School aims to equip students with the necessary tools and skills for a successful career in the transportation industry.

John Wheeler CDL School, located in Mesa, Arizona, has been guiding aspiring truckers for over 10 years. They focus on producing skilled drivers and fostering a community of respect and diligence. The school offers comprehensive CDL training with experienced instructors and flexible class schedules. John Wheeler CDL School provides CDL training in Arizona and Hazmat training at their Riverside & San Diego locations. They offer programs like the Express CDL program (3 weeks with a valid permit), Classic CDL program, and a Master CDL Program (6 weeks).

Coastal Trucking School in San Diego, CA, offers specialized Commercial Driver's License (CDL) training designed to equip you with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel on the road.

Western Truck School, established in 1976, is a veteran-owned and operated CDL training school with three California campuses located in Bakersfield, West Sacramento, and Santee/San Diego. They have trained over 40,000 graduates. The school is a founding member of the CVTA, advocating for safety and professionalism in the transportation industry. Western Truck School prides itself on its hands-on programs, supportive instructors, and commitment to helping students build stable careers in the trucking industry. The school offers various programs, including Class A and Class B Commercial Driver Programs, with training ranging from 20 to 330 hours. They focus on safety and hands-on learning, utilizing modern technologies and current equipment. The curriculum prepares students for commercial driver's license exams, adhering to Federal Motor Carrier Safety Rules and Regulations standards. Day, evening, and weekend classes are available. Western Truck School provides job search assistance to graduates. The school is approved by BPPE, FMCSA, Cal-Jobs, and the Veterans Administration. They offer financial aid options such as VA/GI Bill and WIOA. The school aims to provide personalized attention with low student-to-instructor ratios.

Felipe's Truck Driving School, located in San Diego, California, focuses on training and empowering the next generation of truck drivers, providing them with the skills needed to successfully obtain their commercial driver's license. The school prides itself on an easy and efficient learning process, working closely with students from explaining the initial steps to following through with DMV requirements. They offer permit preparation and DMV testing assistance, including help with scheduling and providing a truck for the exam. The school highlights its exceptional relationship with the DMV and a stellar passing record. Felipe's Truck Driving School emphasizes accessibility with affordable pricing and a high capacity for students, ensuring more practice time and availability. They offer flexible schedules and allow students to stay after class to practice driving. The school's mission is to see students succeed in supporting their lives, families, and dreams by making their accredited course easy, efficient, and affordable. Founded in 2020, Felipe's Truck Driving School is BBB accredited since 2023. The school provides training for Class A and Class B licenses and covers essential aspects such as 7 Step Brake Test, Pre-Trip Inspection, In-Cab Inspection, and various maneuvering skills. They also offer free consultations to discuss the entire process and address any concerns. Run by owners Felipe and Lorena, the school is known for its hands-on approach to teaching. Classes are offered in both English and Spanish.

CRST International, based in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, is one of the largest privately-held transportation companies in the United States. Founded in 1955, CRST provides a broad array of transportation solutions, including expedited van, flatbed, dedicated services, brokerage, transportation management, high-value product white glove moving services, and expedited temperature-controlled services. CRST operates through five companies: CRST Expedited, CRST Malone, CRST Dedicated Services, CRST Logistics, and Specialized Transportation. CRST has a fleet of over 30,000 transportation service providers and 6,000 drivers. CRST invests millions of dollars annually to ensure customers benefit from the best-trained drivers, newest equipment, and latest logistics technology. The company was named Carrier of the Year by The Home Depot. CRST is focused on creating a company culture that values drivers' needs. CRST provides transportation and comprehensive logistics services to customers all over North America. The company has a history of acquisitions and has consolidated into four business units: Capacity Solutions, Dedicated Solutions, Home Solutions, and Specialized Solutions. CRST is an equal opportunity employer.

San Diego State University Global Campus is the continuing education college of San Diego State University, offering online degree completion programs, certifications, and career training programs for learners worldwide. These flexible and accelerated learning programs aim to transform students' lives through personal and professional development. SDSU Global Campus partners with on-campus faculty to deliver online programs that have been ranked among the top in the nation in many areas of study. Global Campus offers a variety of programs including bachelor's degrees, master's degrees, and professional certificates. Online programs are designed with busy lives in mind, offering the flexibility needed to balance studies with work and family. Students appreciate the ability to learn at their own pace and schedule their studies around other commitments. SDSU Global Campus is recognized for excellence in education, ranking in the top 3% of universities worldwide. SDSU has achieved R1 status, signifying its place among the top research universities in the United States. Many SDSU Alumni lifetime members benefit from a discount on select professional development certificate non-credit programs offered through SDSU Global Campus.

South Bay Truck Driving School, located in Southern California, provides Class A and Class B CDL training. The school emphasizes hands-on training and offers programs designed to meet FMCSA and ELDT standards. With experienced instructors, students can gain the skills and knowledge needed for a successful trucking career. The training includes classroom instruction, yard maneuvers, and road driving, ensuring students are well-prepared for the CDL exam.

SPCDL Truck Driving School, located in San Bernardino, California, offers a unique, hands-on, and personalized approach to commercial driver's license (CDL) training. They provide 100% one-on-one training with certified instructors, ensuring students receive undivided attention and gain the necessary skills and confidence. SPCDL is a BPPE exempt institution, operating under the standards of the Bureau for Private and Post-Secondary Education in California. They focus on direct training and preparation, using trucks that are easier to maneuver, which reduces stress and increases the chances of success on the CDL test. The school provides online training materials, including 160 hours of training videos, to help students familiarize themselves with the pre-trip inspection and road test processes. SPCDL meets students at the DMV with their truck for the test, offering support and guidance. They offer flexible payment options and a 10% discount for military, veterans, and first responders. SPCDL also provides online CDL training, covering ELDT, permit exam preparation, pre-trip inspections, and air brake systems. SPCDL's one-on-one training approach allows students to learn at their own pace and focus on areas where they need more help. The school has a high first-time pass rate due to its personalized instruction and hands-on experience. SPCDL uses the same equipment for training as used on test day, eliminating surprises. They offer both manual and automatic transmission training options. SPCDL Truck Driving School has won the BBB Ethics Award, reflecting their commitment to integrity, transparency, and student success. The school is an FMCSA registered training provider. SPCDL serves students nationwide, with in-person training available in San Bernardino, Riverside, Orange, Los Angeles, and San Diego Counties in California.

SafeMotorist, backed by American Safety Council, has over 20 years of experience providing online driver education. They offer state-approved online driver safety courses for students in all 50 states, including courses in English and Spanish. SafeMotorist's courses cater to first-time and experienced drivers, mature motorists, and boaters. They aim to help individuals earn their license, reduce insurance rates, and dismiss traffic tickets.

Hazmat School provides 100% online Hazmat certification training courses available 24/7 on any device. The courses are self-paced, allowing students to work at their own speed. Upon completion, certificates are available immediately, and the school maintains records and sends email notices for refresher courses. They offer training for DOT, OSHA, IATA, and EPA hazardous waste certification.