CDL Training in America: 32,992 FMCSA-Registered Schools (2026)

As of the June 15, 2026 FMCSA Training Provider Registry export, there are 32,992 registered entry-level driver training (ELDT) locations, of which 32,041 are listed as active. This counts every registered training location — a single provider may operate more than one — across 50 states.

California has the most registered CDL training locations (2,237), followed by the other large-population, high-freight states. Alaska has the fewest of the 50 states (109). Raw counts track population and freight volume, so a low count doesn't always mean poor access — but it does mean fewer nearby options for rural drivers.

The Training Provider Registry (TPR) is the FMCSA's official list of schools and instructors approved to deliver entry-level driver training (ELDT). Since February 7, 2022, anyone getting a Class A or B CDL for the first time — or an upgrade or a hazmat, passenger, or school-bus endorsement — must complete training with a provider listed on this registry. If a school isn't on the TPR, its training does not count toward your CDL.

Yes, for most new CDLs. Under the federal ELDT rule (49 CFR Part 380, Subpart F), first-time Class A/B applicants and drivers adding a hazmat, passenger, or school-bus endorsement must train with a provider on the FMCSA Training Provider Registry before taking the CDL skills or knowledge test. Always confirm a school appears on the registry as “active” before you pay for training.

Partly. Of the 32,992 registered locations, 1,217 are online providers and 3,160 are traveling programs, but the bulk — 28,615 — are in-person. The ELDT theory portion can be delivered online, but the behind-the-wheel (range and public-road) training must be completed in person with a registered provider. So a fully online CDL is not possible.

Search the provider or location name on the FMCSA Training Provider Registry at tpr.fmcsa.dot.gov, or browse our state-by-state directory below. Confirm the listing shows an “active” status and covers the class and endorsements you need. A school that is “in-review” or absent from the registry cannot yet certify your training.

This study counts registered training locations, not unique companies. Many providers — community colleges, national chains, carrier-run schools — operate multiple registered locations, and some register separate in-person, traveling, and online entries. We report locations because that reflects where a student can actually train.