Truck Driving Programs in Newark, New Jersey

Obtaining a Commercial Driver’s License in Newark, New Jersey

Are you considering a career as a truck driver in Newark, New Jersey? A Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) is your gateway to joining one of the most in-demand and rewarding professions in the country. Whether you’re aiming to operate heavy-duty trucks across state lines or transport hazardous materials, earning your CDL is the first step toward your goal. There are three CDL classes—Class A, Class B, and Class C—each tailored to specific vehicle types. Additionally, endorsements such as hazardous materials (H), tank vehicles (N), or passenger transport (P) can add valuable qualifications to your license.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the CDL process in Newark, local training programs, employment opportunities, and the requirements you’ll need to meet to get started.

About Newark

Newark, New Jersey, is the state’s largest city and a bustling hub for transportation and logistics. Positioned near major highways like the New Jersey Turnpike, I-78, and I-280, Newark plays a pivotal role in moving goods across the Northeast. Its proximity to Newark Liberty International Airport and Port Newark—the largest seaport on the East Coast—further boosts its status as a critical link in the supply chain. For more information about the city and its neighborhoods, visit the official website of Newark, NJ.

CDL Training Programs in Newark, New Jersey

If you’re ready to earn your CDL, Newark offers several excellent training programs to help you prepare:

1. Smith & Solomon Commercial Driver Training
   Located in Newark, Smith & Solomon is one of the most well-known trucking schools in the region. Their CDL training programs focus on Class A and Class B licenses, with hands-on practice in a range of vehicles. The school also provides assistance with job placement after certification. Find more details on their programs here.

2. Apex CDL Institute
   Apex CDL Institute in nearby Kearny, just a 10-minute drive from Newark, offers comprehensive CDL training programs. Their courses include instruction for Class A and Class B licenses, as well as ELDT-compliant theory training. Visit their official site for more information: Apex CDL Institute.

3. E-Z Wheels Driving School
   Located in Elizabeth, NJ, E-Z Wheels Driving School is another excellent option near Newark. They offer CDL training for Classes A, B, and C, along with endorsement programs for tanker vehicles, hazardous materials, and more. Learn more about their offerings here.

If Newark-based programs don’t meet your needs, other nearby options in the greater New Jersey area offer additional flexibility.

Trucking Employment Opportunities in Newark

Newark is home to several trucking companies and logistics firms offering promising opportunities for newly licensed CDL drivers. Below are some of the city’s major employers:

1. C.R. England
   C.R. England is a leading trucking and transportation company in the U.S., with entry-level and seasoned driver positions available. They prioritize safety and offer competitive benefits. Visit their careers page for job openings.

2. Old Dominion Freight Line
   With a terminal in Newark, Old Dominion Freight Line specializes in less-than-truckload (LTL) freight transportation. They’re known for their robust onboarding program and career development opportunities. Explore opportunities on their official website.

3. FedEx Freight – Newark Terminal
   FedEx Freight in Newark hires CDL drivers for a variety of freight delivery roles. They provide excellent training programs and benefits for full-time positions. Visit their employment page for current openings.

These companies are just a few examples of the many firms that rely on skilled CDL drivers in Newark.

Prerequisites for CDL Programs

Before enrolling in a CDL program, you will need to meet the following requirements:

• Age: Be at least 18 years old to drive within New Jersey or 21 years old for interstate driving and hazardous materials endorsements.
• Valid New Jersey Driver’s License: Maintain a Class D license in good standing for at least two years with no major traffic violations or pending convictions.
• Education: A high school diploma or GED is typically preferred, though not required by all schools.
• Medical Certificate: Pass a Department of Transportation (DOT) physical exam to ensure you meet the health standards for commercial driving.
• Drug Testing: Complete a drug screening test before and during your program.

CDL Requirements in New Jersey

The state of New Jersey has specific requirements for earning your CDL. Below are the key steps:

1. Obtain a CDL Permit: Complete the written knowledge test and pay a $125 fee to receive your learner’s permit.
2. Complete an ELDT Program: Enroll in an Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) course from a certified provider to meet FMCSA regulations.
3. Pass the Skills Test: Demonstrate your ability to operate commercial vehicles through a road test, basic vehicle control, and vehicle inspection exam.
4. Pay for Your CDL License: The CDL license fee is $42 for a four-year term, with additional charges for endorsements ($2 each).

For more detailed information, visit the New Jersey Department of Transportation (NJDOT) or the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (NJ MVC).

Get Started Today

Earning your Commercial Driver’s License in Newark, New Jersey, is the start of a fulfilling and high-demand profession. With plenty of local training programs and trucking companies eager to hire drivers, now is the perfect time to take the first step. Don’t wait—contact a CDL training school near you and begin your journey to becoming a professional truck driver!

For a look at the job outlook for Heavy and Tractor-trailer Truck Drivers, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).