Best Schools in Albuquerque, NM

160 Driving Academy in Albuquerque, New Mexico is located at 3200 Coors Blvd NW, Suite G, on the west side of the city. The school is part of the national 160 Driving Academy chain and offers Class A and Class B CDL training through a structured four-week program totaling 160 hours. Students spend 40 hours in the classroom and three weeks behind the wheel on local Albuquerque streets and New Mexico highways. The Albuquerque location reaches students across the Rio Grande corridor and serves as a key CDL training hub for Central New Mexico. The campus operates Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Job placement assistance is available upon graduation, and the national network connects graduates with major trucking employers. Graduates earn an average of $55,990 annually according to occupational employment wage data cited by the school. Tuition at this location is consistent with the network average of $4,000-$6,000. Multiple financing pathways are available including WIOA workforce development grants, Climb Credit loans, Edly income share agreements, Liberty Career Finance, and Swift employer sponsorship for qualifying candidates. Free ELDT (Entry Level Driver Theory Training) is included with enrollment, meeting the federal 2022 FMCSA mandate. Hazmat certification is also offered as an add-on endorsement. The academy is fully FMCSA-registered and state-licensed. It is listed in the Arizona and New Mexico job connection databases as an approved training provider. The 95% graduation rate reported by the national network and the school's consistent 5-star aggregate rating reflect a streamlined program focused on exam pass rates and rapid entry into the workforce.

Coach Al's Driving School has provided driver's education in Albuquerque and Rio Rancho since 2003. Covers Bernalillo County and Sandoval County with CDL-experienced instructors on staff.

Best Price Driving School is a standard driver education school located in Albuquerque, New Mexico, at 7421 Menaul Boulevard NE. The school offers drivers education classes, behind-the-wheel training with MVD (Motor Vehicle Division) testing included, and private lessons in dual-controlled vehicles. It is owned and operated by Madison Selleck and Sarah Selleck. The school emphasizes defensive driving skills through an interactive curriculum and customized lesson plans tailored to individual student goals and skill levels. Hours run Monday through Saturday from 8 AM to 8 PM and Sunday 8 AM to noon. Importantly, Best Price Driving School appears to offer standard Class D (personal vehicle) driver education only — there is no evidence it offers CDL training of any kind. The school’s curriculum, vehicle fleet (dual-controlled passenger cars), and marketing are oriented toward new drivers seeking a standard license, not commercial trucking licensure. FLAG: NOT a CDL school. Best Price Driving School offers standard passenger vehicle driver education only. Recommend removal from the CDL school directory or reclassification. Albuquerque CDL options include ABQ Truck Driving School, SAGE Truck Driving Schools, and 160 Driving Academy.

Achievement Driving School is a driving school located in Albuquerque, New Mexico, at 333 Montano Road NW Suite D. The school focuses on standard driver education rather than commercial driver license (CDL) training. Services include driver education for new drivers, driver improvement classes, MVD (Motor Vehicle Division) written and road test preparation, behind-the-wheel instruction, and certified driving simulators. The school is open during standard business hours and serves both teen and adult student drivers. Important note: Achievement Driving School does not appear to offer CDL or commercial truck driving programs. Its website and all public listings describe standard passenger vehicle driver training and MVD services exclusively. This school was flagged as potentially non-CDL upon intake, and research confirms that flag — it is a standard driver education school, not a commercial trucking school. Students seeking CDL training in Albuquerque should look at dedicated commercial driving schools such as SAGE Truck Driving Schools, ABQ Truck Driving School, 160 Driving Academy, or ABQ CDL Training. Achievement Driving School may still be a useful resource for drivers who need to fulfill court-ordered driver safety requirements or improve their general driving skills.

Jenkins Drivers Ed provides an intense alternative for students with demanding schedules. Unlike traditional driving schools, they focus on real-world traffic situations rather than empty parking lots. The school caters to goal-oriented young people who are involved in extracurricular activities and need flexible scheduling options. Classes start every month, and students can finish at their own pace. Jenkins Drivers Ed also offers court-mandated defensive driving classes, certified child seat-belt courses, and aggressive drivers courses.

O.L.D. School of Driving in Rio Rancho is a driving school providing instruction in the Albuquerque and Rio Rancho areas. Licensed by the Traffic Safety Bureau, they offer 30 hours of classroom study and a minimum of 7 hours of behind-the-wheel training. The school prides itself on an updated and detailed curriculum taught by certified and experienced instructors, with classroom sessions designed to be both educational and fun. They focus on providing the best service and ensuring students gain confidence behind the wheel.

Turner's School of Driving, a family-owned and operated business, has been serving the Albuquerque area since 1995. They are certified, bonded, and insured with the State of New Mexico, and all instructors are certified with the State of New Mexico's Traffic Safety Bureau. Turner's prides itself on a kind, patient, and experienced team dedicated to training safe, responsible drivers. They offer driver's education programs and MVD testing services, creating a welcoming environment for students to relax and master driving skills.

ABQ Truck Driving School is a locally-owned Class A CDL training school based in Albuquerque, New Mexico, committed to producing safe and prepared commercial drivers. The school differentiates itself through small class sizes and highly qualified instructors, providing an intimate training environment compared to national chain schools. The program is designed for students seeking Class A CDL entry-level driver positions and can be completed in 5 weeks or less. Instruction combines online theory preparation — covering General Knowledge, Air Brakes, and Combination Vehicles written exams — with in-person behind-the-wheel training to develop real-world driving proficiency. The school also offers Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) compliant coursework, CDL written exam tutoring, hazardous materials transportation training, and driver safety courses. Lifetime job placement services are included with the program, a meaningful benefit for career changers entering the trucking industry. Financing is available through CDL Advantage for students who need payment assistance. ABQ Truck Driving School is a strong local alternative to community college programs in Albuquerque, particularly suited for students who prefer small-cohort, instructor-focused training and want job placement support built into their enrollment.

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.

Commercial Driving Academy (CDA) is a CDL training provider with multiple locations. The Macon, Georgia campus, for example, serves central Georgia, including Warner Robins and Forsyth, emphasizing skill-based instruction in a personalized environment. CDA's programs prepare individuals with little to no commercial driving experience to obtain a Commercial Driver's License. They also offer lifetime job placement assistance, helping students find employment after graduation. Some locations are certified third-party testing sites, allowing them to train and administer the CDL road test.

Swift Transportation, now merged with Knight Transportation as Knight-Swift, is one of the largest full truckload carriers in North America. Headquartered in Phoenix, Arizona, the company offers a wide range of transportation and logistics services across the United States, Mexico, and Canada. Swift Transportation provides various services, including retail transportation solutions, moving goods from distribution centers to stores or directly to customers. They operate an extensive fleet of tractors and trailers and employ a large number of people. Swift Transportation also provides CDL training programs to help individuals obtain their Class A CDL. The company has terminals across the country designed with drivers in mind, offering amenities such as shops, lounges, laundry facilities, Wi-Fi, showers, and parking. These terminals aim to provide drivers with convenient resources to recharge, refuel, and stay connected while on the road. Keep in mind that experiences can vary significantly depending on the specific terminal and individual circumstances. Some drivers appreciate the opportunity to gain experience and the availability of various types of routes and freight. Others express concerns about pay, communication, and work-life balance. Swift is often recommended as a starter company for new drivers to gain experience in the trucking industry. Swift Transportation has a large network and provides opportunities for drivers to get their CDL and start their careers. The company's training programs and terminal amenities can be beneficial for those entering the trucking industry. However, potential drivers should carefully consider the reviews and experiences shared by other drivers before making a decision.

Central New Mexico Community College (CNM) is a large public community college in Albuquerque offering a Truck Driving Certificate of Achievement. The CDL program prepares students for the Class A license through two tracks: a 12-week daytime program and a 15-week nights/weekends program via both CNM's School of Applied Technologies and CNM Ingenuity. Theory is self-paced online (20-30 hours), followed by 4-5 weeks of behind-the-wheel training and the CDL Skills Exam. CNM Ingenuity runs new classes monthly. The main campus is at 900 University Blvd SE, Albuquerque, NM 87106. Estimated in-state tuition for 2026 is approximately $2,194 per year.

Phoenix Truck Driving School provides high-quality truck driver training, helping students earn their commercial driver's license (CDL) in as little as four weeks. The school offers a combination of classroom, range, and real-world driving experience to prepare students for a career in trucking. With locations in Arizona and Texas, they cater to active military, veterans, and military families, specializing in reintegration into the civilian workforce. Phoenix Truck Driving School is affiliated with organizations such as the American Trucking Associations and the Arizona Trucking Association.

CNM Ingenuity in Albuquerque, NM offers workforce training including CDL programs through Central New Mexico Community College. Online and behind-the-wheel instruction available.

SAGE Truck Driving Schools, established in 1989, has grown into a leading provider of truck driver training with multiple locations across the United States. They offer comprehensive CDL training programs that adhere to the Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) standards set by the FMCSA. SAGE aims to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary for entry-level positions as Class A or Class B commercial drivers. The school emphasizes quality, safety, and student outcomes, with a focus on hands-on, one-on-one behind-the-wheel training. SAGE offers a variety of CDL training programs, including Comprehensive Tractor-Trailer Driver Training, Commercial Driver's License Essentials, Advanced Class A CDL Training, Truck Driver Refresher Training, Truck Driver Training Externship, Straight Truck Class B Driver, and CDL Permit Prep. They welcome students from diverse backgrounds, requiring a high school diploma, GED, or equivalent, a valid driver's license, and a clean driving record. SAGE also provides employment assistance services to help graduates find jobs in the trucking industry. With over 30 years of experience, SAGE has trained over 40,000 students, many of whom have secured driving jobs after graduation. The school is known for its experienced instructors and comprehensive curriculum, which includes classroom instruction, range practice, and road driving. SAGE's training approach focuses on providing students with the confidence and skills to succeed in their trucking careers. SAGE's programs are designed to be fast and affordable, allowing students to obtain their CDL in a few months. The school also offers financial aid options, including VA/GI Bill and WIOA, to help students finance their education. SAGE Truck Driving Schools is committed to providing quality CDL training and supporting students throughout their journey to becoming professional truck drivers.

ABQ CDL Training is the commercial driver license program operated by CNM Ingenuity on behalf of Central New Mexico Community College (CNM) in Albuquerque, NM. The program is formally affiliated with a community college, making it one of the most credentialed and publicly-accessible CDL training options in New Mexico. The school offers Class A and Class B CDL programs, including straight truck and passenger endorsements. The 6-week curriculum combines self-paced online theory modules (20-30 hours) with in-person behind-the-wheel training. Flexible scheduling options include weekday morning and afternoon sessions, a 2-day-per-week schedule, and weekend formats to accommodate working students. Tuition is $7,000 for Class A and $5,000-$5,300 for Class B, but 95% of students qualify for funding, often covering the cost entirely. CNM Ingenuity is approved by the New Mexico MVD to administer the CDL Skills Exam for the Central New Mexico region, meaning students can complete their licensing from training through testing on-site. ABQ CDL Training is an excellent choice for Albuquerque residents who want structured, institutionally-backed CDL training with strong financial aid access and flexible scheduling.

Rocky Mountain Truck Driving School appears to have multiple locations and possibly different ownership. One school, located in Albuquerque, NM, aims to provide students with the skills for a new career in truck driving. Another school, Rocky Mountain Driving School, located in Idaho Falls, ID, has been in operation since 1999 and focuses on high-quality, individualized instruction to ensure students develop safe driving habits. They offer online and classroom instruction, with courses ranging from 3 to 4 weeks. A third school, Rocky Mountain Truck Driver Training Ltd, is located in Calgary, Alberta, and has over 70 years of experience offering Class 1 and 3 license training.

Phoenix Truck Driving Institute provides high-quality truck driver training, helping students earn their commercial driver's license (CDL) in as little as four weeks. The school offers a combination of classroom, range, and real-world driving experience to prepare students for a career in the trucking industry. With small classes and experienced instructors, students receive personalized attention and effective training. Phoenix Truck Driving Institute also offers flexible class schedules, refresher courses, and third-party road testing. They are a Military Friendly School, allowing qualified veterans and those transitioning out of active service to use their GI Bill® benefits.

Dream One Trucking Schools, formerly known as NNCT CDL Training, aims to provide quality industry-standard commercial driver training to qualified students throughout New Mexico and the continental US. They offer Class A, Class B, refresher courses, and endorsement programs. Dream One Trucking School is listed on the FMCSA's Training Provider Registry (TPR). The school emphasizes the life-changing potential of obtaining a CDL, highlighting opportunities for financial security, flexibility, travel, and personal growth. Dream One Trucking School also offers mobile training and Spanish-assisted classes. Dream One Trucking School has two locations: a main campus in Gallup, NM, and a training lot in Albuquerque, NM. They also offer to bring their mobile training unit to other areas or states.

New Mexico Junior College (NMJC), founded in 1965, provides accessible and affordable education in a supportive environment. The college offers a range of programs and resources to help students achieve their academic and career goals. With a commitment to student success and safety, NMJC fosters a vibrant and inclusive community where students can grow academically and personally. The college provides various resources such as academic advising, tutoring, a library, and career services to support students. NMJC is dedicated to offering quality education and empowering students to succeed in their chosen paths.

The University of New Mexico's Continuing Education Division offers a wide array of non-credit courses, bootcamps, and certificate programs aimed at professional development and personal enrichment. These programs cater to a diverse audience, including UNM staff and faculty, working professionals, and lifelong learners. Courses are designed to provide practical skills applicable in today's job market, with subjects ranging from data science and digital technology to project management and graphic design. UNM Continuing Education is committed to developing innovative educational alternatives and responding to the evolving needs of the community, technology, and business sectors. With a history spanning over 95 years, the division has served hundreds of thousands of individuals in the New Mexico community. They offer valuable learning opportunities and certification programs that contribute to the local workforce and economy. The division also provides custom-designed training programs tailored to specific organizational needs. UNM Continuing Education collaborates with industry partners to enhance course offerings and engage with the local community through partnerships and custom training programs. Students can choose from various learning formats, including in-person and online classes, to accommodate diverse learning preferences. The division also offers specialized programs such as the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) for adults aged 50 and better, providing stimulating intellectual and cultural courses. Additionally, UNM alumni may be eligible for discounts on select courses. Located in Albuquerque, the UNM Continuing Education division is easily accessible and provides free parking for classes and events. The division aims to help individuals start new careers, enhance professional skills, explore new hobbies, and connect with others.