Truck Driving Programs in Salt Lake City, Utah

Obtaining a Commercial Driver’s License in Salt Lake City, Utah

Starting a career in truck driving is a fantastic opportunity, especially in a city like Salt Lake City, Utah, where commercial transportation plays a vital role in connecting businesses and industries. To legally operate large trucks or commercial vehicles, you’ll need a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL). This guide will help you navigate the CDL certification process, explore truck driving schools in and around Salt Lake City, and learn about opportunities in the trucking industry.

There are three main types of CDL classes:

• Class A: Ideal for tractor-trailers and large combination vehicles.
• Class B: Suitable for smaller commercial vehicles like buses and dump trucks.
• Class C: Designed for vehicles carrying hazardous materials or more than 16 passengers.

You can also earn additional endorsements, such as hazmat or tanker endorsements, to expand your career options. Let’s dive into everything you need to know about earning your CDL in Salt Lake City!

About Salt Lake City

Salt Lake City, the capital of Utah, offers a rich blend of industry, culture, and outdoor adventures. Known for the stunning Great Salt Lake and surrounded by the Wasatch Mountain Range, it serves as a hub for commerce and logistics. Its central location in the western United States makes it a vital transportation link for goods nationwide. Learn more about the city by visiting its official website.

CDL Training Programs in Salt Lake City, Utah

If you’re ready to start your journey, there are several truck driving schools and CDL training programs available in Salt Lake City. Below is a list of local options:

1. CR England Premier Truck Driving School

   • Location: 4701 W 2100 S, Salt Lake City, UT
   • CR England offers comprehensive CDL training programs for Class A licenses. Their program includes hands-on training, classroom instruction, and job placement opportunities.
   • Visit their CDL Training Page

2. Sage Truck Driving School – Salt Lake City

   • Location: 920 W Levoy Dr, Murray, UT (a short drive south of downtown Salt Lake City)
   • Sage specializes in one-on-one training for CDL certifications. They offer flexible scheduling, skills testing, and entry-level driver training (ELDT) compliance.
   • Learn About Sage Truck Driving School

3. Mountain West Commercial Driving School

   • Location: 1425 W 2200 S, Salt Lake City, UT
   • Mountain West provides CDL training for both Classes A and B. Their program includes hands-on training, use of modern equipment, and preparation for skills and written exams.
   • Explore Mountain West Commercial Driving School

Each of these schools meets Utah’s requirements for CDL training and provides the skills needed to pass state and federal exams.

Trucking Employment Opportunities in Salt Lake City

Salt Lake City boasts several logistics and transportation companies looking for skilled CDL drivers. Here are some of the top trucking employers in the area:

1. Swift Transportation

   • Location: 5175 W 2100 S, Salt Lake City, UT
   • One of the largest trucking companies in the nation, Swift offers a variety of driving opportunities, including long-haul, dedicated, and regional routes.
   • Explore Careers at Swift Transportation

2. Knight Transportation

   • Location: 5600 W 2100 S, Salt Lake City, UT
   • Knight Transportation provides local and regional jobs for CDL drivers. They’re known for competitive pay and comprehensive benefits.
   • View Jobs with Knight Transportation

3. Pride Transport

   • Location: 5499 W 2455 S, Salt Lake City, UT
   • A family-owned company, Pride Transport offers drivers steady work, modern equipment, and flexible schedules.
   • Visit Pride Transport Careers

These companies are excellent starting points for newly certified drivers looking to begin their trucking careers in Salt Lake City.

Prerequisites for CDL Programs

Before enrolling in a CDL program, you must meet the following prerequisites:

• Be at least 18 years old for intrastate driving or 21 years old for interstate driving.
• Possess a valid driver’s license.
• Provide proof of Utah residency and a Social Security number.
• Pass a Department of Transportation (DOT) physical examination and obtain a medical certificate.
• Have a clean driving record free of significant violations.
• Successfully complete a background check (required for certain endorsements).
• Meet entry-level driver training (ELDT) requirements.

Each truck driving school may have slightly different admission criteria, so check directly with the program you’re considering.

CDL Requirements in Utah

To obtain your CDL in Utah, you’ll need to complete specific state and federal requirements:

1. CDL Classes
   Utah offers Class A, B, and C licenses to accommodate various commercial driving needs. Learn more about each CDL class on the Utah CDL Requirements page.

2. Testing Process

   • Pass the CDL knowledge test to obtain your learner permit.
   • Complete a CDL skills test, including vehicle inspection, basic controls, and road driving tests.

3. Medical Certification
   Drivers must hold a valid DOT medical card, confirming they are fit to operate commercial vehicles.

4. Endorsements
   Additional testing is required for endorsements like hazmat, tanker vehicles, and combinations.

For a full list of requirements and forms, visit the Utah Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).

Get Started Today

Becoming a certified truck driver in Salt Lake City, Utah, opens the door to a stable and rewarding career. With its central location and a robust market for trucking jobs, there’s no better time to start your journey. Contact one of the local CDL schools listed above to take the first step toward achieving your commercial driver’s license. Don’t wait—your future in the trucking industry starts now!