Best Schools in Baltimore, MD

160 Driving Academy in Baltimore, Maryland is part of the national 160 Driving Academy network and operates out of 7500 Eastern Ave in the Eastwood neighborhood. The school offers Class A and Class B CDL training in a four-week, 160-hour format. The program is split between 40 hours of classroom instruction and 120 hours of behind-the-wheel training on local Baltimore roads and interstate highways. The Baltimore campus pairs students with experienced instructors and is known for a team of dedicated trainers. Recent student reviews highlight instructors Rasheed, Darrell, and Richard for their commitment to student success. The school advertises a 95% student graduation rate across its national network and reports average graduate earnings of $55,990 per year. Job placement assistance is available to all graduates through the academy's carrier connections. Tuition at the Baltimore location falls in the $4,000-$6,000 range typical for the network. Financing options include WIOA grants (which can cover up to 100% for qualifying unemployed or low-income applicants), Climb Credit financing, Edly income share agreements, and employer sponsorship through Swift Transportation for eligible candidates aged 21 and older with a clean driving record. Free ELDT (Entry Level Driver Theory Training) is bundled with enrollment, satisfying the federal FMCSA requirement. The school is fully FMCSA-registered and licensed to operate in Maryland. Both Class A and Class B licenses are offered, making it one of the more versatile training programs in the Baltimore area. Students with concerns about specific instructor changes have occasionally noted dissatisfaction, but the majority of reviews remain strongly positive.

Maryland CDL Academy is a truck driving school dedicated to student success, offering individualized one-on-one training to cater to each student's specific needs. They provide Class A and Class B commercial driver's license training using the latest vehicles. The academy's instructors have over two decades of combined experience in the trucking industry and have developed a training curriculum designed for student success. Maryland CDL Academy opened its doors two years ago. They focus on safety, confidence, and career readiness. The academy also offers flexible weekday and weekend programs.

The Community College of Baltimore County (CCBC) is a public community college with multiple campuses located throughout Baltimore County, Maryland. Established in 1998 through the restructuring of three existing community colleges, CCBC now operates through its main campuses in Catonsville, Dundalk, and Essex, as well as extension centers in Owings Mills, Hunt Valley and Randallstown. CCBC offers an expansive selection of degree, certificate, and workplace certification programs in various fields, including business, education, health care, information technology, cybersecurity, construction, and transportation. CCBC is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education and is known for providing accessible, affordable, and high-quality education. The college serves nearly 65,000 students each year and is committed to preparing students for transfer and career success. CCBC also provides customized employee development training to companies and a variety of life enrichment classes. Students at CCBC appreciate the supportive environment, knowledgeable faculty, and diverse student body. The college is recognized for its affordability and flexibility, making it an attractive option for those seeking higher education on a budget. CCBC also has partnerships with Leadership Baltimore County, focusing on community enhancement and leadership development.

The Community College of Baltimore County (CCBC) is a public community college with three full-service campuses in Catonsville, Dundalk, and Essex, as well as extension centers in Hunt Valley, Owings Mills, and Randallstown. CCBC offers a wide array of degree, certificate, and workplace certification programs in fields like business, education, healthcare, IT, cybersecurity, construction, and transportation. With flexible scheduling options and online courses, CCBC aims to meet students where they are. CCBC is the largest provider of higher education and workforce training in metropolitan Baltimore. The college is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education. CCBC has more than 100 associate degree and certificate programs. The college has a diverse student body representing 55 countries. Since 1957, CCBC has provided accessible, affordable, high-quality education. Each year, nearly 50,000 students enroll at the college's campuses, extension centers, and online. CCBC is designated as the “Best Community College” among the Maryland Daily Record's 2023 Reader Rankings. CCBC aims to empower area residents to transform their lives and strengthen the regional workforce. The college partners with organizations like Leadership Baltimore County to enhance relationships, partnerships, and learning opportunities. CCBC offers various resources for students, including financial aid and academic advising.

The University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC) is a public research university located in Catonsville, Maryland. Established in 1966, UMBC is known for integrating teaching, research, and service. As an Honors University, UMBC provides academically talented students with a strong undergraduate liberal arts foundation, preparing them for graduate study, professional careers, and community leadership. UMBC emphasizes science, engineering, information technology, human services, and public policy at the graduate level. UMBC is recognized for its diverse and welcoming community, offering numerous clubs, cultural events, and organizations. The campus is considered manageable and peaceful, fostering a focused academic environment. Students appreciate the accessibility of faculty and the opportunities for research, especially in STEM fields. UMBC contributes to the economic development of Maryland through entrepreneurial initiatives, workforce training, and technology commercialization. While UMBC is praised for its academic rigor and supportive environment, some students have noted limitations in campus food options and social activities. Some reviews mention a desire for more engaging campus life and improvements in advising and financial aid communication. However, many students find the campus community to be inclusive and supportive, with a strong sense of belonging. The university has a strong history program and dedicated teachers. UMBC offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines. The university is divided into three colleges, three schools, and a graduate school. UMBC also has a presence at The Universities at Shady Grove in Rockville, Maryland.

ASPIRE Loyola is the Center for Continuing Education at Loyola University Maryland in Baltimore, offering over 850 online professional development and workforce training programs. The center is located on the Loyola University Maryland campus at 4501 North Charles Street and serves working adults seeking to advance their careers or gain new skills. ASPIRE offers programs across a broad range of areas including business, data science, cybersecurity, healthcare, leadership, and trades and services. All programs are delivered in a flexible, self-paced online format with industry certifications and certificate programs available upon completion. Important note: No CDL or commercial truck driving program was found associated with ASPIRE Loyola. The institution focuses on online professional development and does not appear to offer hands-on CDL training. This entry may be mislabeled or refer to a different program at the institution. Verification recommended before presenting as a CDL school.

All-State Career is a multi-campus career school with a Baltimore, Maryland location offering CDL truck driver training programs alongside allied health and skilled trades programs. The Baltimore campus sits just off Interstate 95 on Broening Highway in east Baltimore, making it convenient for students across the metro area. The school offers Class A and Class B CDL programs. The Class B program covers straight trucks, box trucks, large buses, and dump trucks. The Class A Advanced Tractor Trailer program prepares students for over-the-road and regional commercial driving careers. Training includes three stages: classroom instruction, range practice (parking, backing, docking), and on-road driving with an instructor. All-State Career Baltimore is accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC) and registered with the Maryland Higher Education Commission. Financial aid including government grants, WIOA workforce development grants, and private loans are available. Career services include job placement assistance, resume development, interview coaching, and career fairs.

All-State Career School is a multi-campus career institution with a Baltimore, Maryland location offering CDL truck driver training alongside allied health and skilled trades programs. The Baltimore campus is located at 2200 Broening Highway, just off I-95 in east Baltimore. The school offers Class A and Class B CDL programs. The Class B program trains students on straight trucks, box trucks, large buses, and dump trucks. The Advanced Tractor Trailer (Class A) program prepares students for OTR, short haul, and local delivery careers. Training follows a three-stage progression: classroom instruction, range skills (parking, backing, docking), then on-road driving. All-State Career School Baltimore is accredited by ACCSC and registered with the Maryland Higher Education Commission. Financial aid is available including WIOA workforce development grants, federal loans, and private financing. Career services include resume help, interview coaching, job leads, and career fairs with employer partners.

All-State Career is a multi-campus career school with a Baltimore, Maryland location offering CDL truck driver training programs alongside allied health and skilled trades programs. The Baltimore campus sits just off Interstate 95 on Broening Highway in east Baltimore, making it convenient for students across the metro area. The school offers Class A and Class B CDL programs. The Class B program covers straight trucks, box trucks, large buses, and dump trucks. The Class A Advanced Tractor Trailer program prepares students for over-the-road and regional commercial driving careers. Training includes three stages: classroom instruction, range practice (parking, backing, docking), and on-road driving with an instructor. All-State Career Baltimore is accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC) and registered with the Maryland Higher Education Commission. Financial aid including government grants, WIOA workforce development grants, and private loans are available. Career services include job placement assistance, resume development, interview coaching, and career fairs.

C1 Truck Driver Training is a national CDL school chain with confirmed campuses in Indianapolis IN, Fort Worth TX, Springfield MO, and Fort Wayne IN. This location has not been independently verified as an active C1 campus and may be a service-area listing or data error. Prospective students should confirm availability directly at c1training.com before enrolling. C1 programs typically run 4 weeks, cover Class A and Class B CDL, and cost $4,000–$6,000 with financial aid and VA/GI Bill options available.

North American Trade Schools (NATS) in Baltimore, MD, has been a vocational education provider since 1970, originally founded as the Diesel Institute of America. NATS offers hands-on training programs designed to prepare students for entry-level jobs in various fields, including transportation, HVAC, construction, and welding. The school is accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges. NATS emphasizes practical skills and real-world experience, with programs that combine classroom instruction with hands-on training in well-equipped labs. They offer morning, evening, and weekend sessions for most programs.

Shelly Truck Driving School, established in 2014 by S&H Express, aims to provide the trucking industry with skilled and experienced drivers. Located in York, PA, the school offers a comprehensive four-week program that combines classroom instruction, simulator training, and hands-on driving experience. A key feature is the integration of a state-of-the-art truck driving simulator, allowing students to practice essential skills and experience various driving conditions before getting behind the wheel. With instructors bringing over 75 years of combined experience, the school focuses on equipping students with the expertise needed for a successful trucking career. Shelly Truck Driving School is also a certified third-party CDL testing site approved by the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation.

Touchstone CDL Academy, located in the Greater Baltimore area, has been providing commercial driver training for 8 years. They focus on teaching real-world skills efficiently, boasting a 99% success rate. Their methodology includes online theory classes that can be completed at your own pace and one-on-one behind-the-wheel (BTW) training, ensuring personalized instruction. Touchstone aims to help students obtain their CDL in a few months without incurring large debts.

Baltimore City Community College (BCCC) offers a Workforce Training Commercial Driver License Class B program designed to prepare students for careers in commercial transportation. The program is structured as a two-course sequence (WTRN 4885 and WTRN 4921) that leads to the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration CDL-B examination and road test. The curriculum covers National Safety Council driving techniques including turning, parking, safe vehicle operation, pre-trip inspections, basic control, backing, trip planning, log books, and accident reporting. Training combines classroom instruction with hands-on behind-the-wheel experience on real-world driving routes. Eligibility requires a minimum age of 18 (21 for full licensing), a valid Maryland Class C driver’s license, no more than 2 points on the driving record, no DWI convictions, and passing a DOT physical and drug screen. Students must also complete math and reading assessments and attend an orientation session before enrolling. BCCC is located at 2901 Liberty Heights Avenue in Baltimore and serves a diverse urban student population. The program is a workforce development offering suited for Baltimore residents seeking entry into commercial driving careers, particularly for local/city driving roles requiring a Class B license.

Compliance Solutions, established in 1995, is a leader in the Environmental Health & Safety (EH&S) training industry. They focus on imparting knowledge about hazard recognition, risk assessment, and proper safety protocols to equip employees with the tools to identify and mitigate workplace dangers. Their goal is to ensure all employees come home safely. They offer online courses, instructor-led classroom and virtual sessions, and on-site training. Customer satisfaction is a priority, with a US-based customer service team available to assist with questions and training needs.