Celadon shut down their Driving Academy program in 2017. We have left this review page up in case the information is valuable to anyone searching for the program, however please visit our Paid CDL Training homepage to see a full list of active schools offering paid training programs, or fill out our 30-second application for paid CDL training and we'll match you with paid CDL programs that accept candidates who match your profile.
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At TruckingTruth, we've done a ton of research for you! We've contacted the company recruiters at Celadon Trucking and put together a fantastic review of the Celadon paid CDL training program.
We'll start you off with our opinion of their paid CDL training program and then we'll take you through all of the key features and important information you'll need to know. Some of what we'll cover:
One item that stands out in Celadon's program is that you will be required to team drive for 120,000 miles after graduation, with a pretty hefty raise after 6 months.
Their training program is very affordable, and is paid off with one year of driving. Additionally, Celadon provides 3 meals a day, 7 days a week while in school, which is uncommon in company-sponsored programs.
Founded in 1985 and employing over 4,000 associates worldwide, Celadon Group Inc. (NYSE: CGI) is one of the largest and most progressive transportation and logistics companies in North America.
Celadon maintains one of the youngest fleets in the transportation industry with an average tractor age below 2 years, compared with the industry average of 7 years. Celadon has been recognized with the 1st Place -- National Fleet Safety Award, the industry's most prestigious safety award, three times.
Currently, Celadon operates nearly 5,500 tractors and more than 12,000 trailers throughout the United States, Mexico and Canada.
Additionally, Celadon runs their own company-sponsored training school, the Celadon Driving Academy, with locations in Indiana, Alabama, and Texas. All meals, housing, and transportation costs are covered by Celadon.
Did you know you can fill out one quick form here on TruckingTruth and apply to several companies at once for paid CDL training? Seriously! The application only takes one minute. You will speak with recruiters today. There is no obligation whatsoever. Learn more and apply here:
Celadon hires throughout the lower 48 states, except Montana, Idaho, North & South Dakota, Maine, and the area of Florida south of Ocala.
Students pay $50/week for 1 year after going out with the trainer, for a total of $2,600.
Initially, permit costs will be covered by the student. However, this will be reimbursed upon arrival to the school.
Yes. 3 meals per day, 7 days a week.
Yes, either at Celadon's dorm or the hotel.
Yes
$50/week for the first year of employment. If you leave Celadon before the year is up, the final amount owed is pro-rated for what you've already paid.
As long as you stay with Celadon for a year your monetary obligation is minimal, but the cost of the school itself is on the low side, anyways. Always make sure to understand the agreement that you sign.
7-10 day's worth of clothes. Do NOT bring, pack, or wear the following:
No, you do not need a U.S. Passport. However, you will be required to provide identification at training and a U.S. Passport may be an acceptable form.
No additional endorsements are required.
Again, pretty typical, but it should be noted that Celadon has listed specific items of clothing that they will not allow, for those who like flip-flops and tank-tops.
Regardless of whether or not a company requires them, we always recommend getting a passport as well as all endorsements to make sure that you are prepared for any future opportunities.
The students spend their first week in the class. After that week they spend 3-5 weeks learning how to operate the trucks on the driving ranges and the road.
The average student is in CDL school for 31 days.
It takes 4 to 5 weeks from the time a student begins class to the time they earn their CDL.
30 minutes per day is typical.
4-8
40 hours
Celadon's CDL school might be a little longer than some others, but you are also sharing a truck with more students at the same time. There should still be ample practice time.
10,000 miles
$65 per day.
Training is run as a solo operation.
No, one student per trainer & truck.
No, nobody is sleeping while the truck is rolling.
Disputes are handled on a case by case basis by management, and a new trainer will be assigned in the case of unresolvable disputes.
Yes, a non-smoking trainer may be requested.
Driver must have at least 6 months experience, at least 1 month driving with Celadon, approved by safety and have attended a Train the Trainer class.
Presently, students are required to run their first 120,000 miles as a team making .42/mile split. At that time, they can solo at .33/mile or continue driving as a team driver at .50/mile split with the ability to make up to .60/mile split.
After the 120,000 miles, typically about 6-8 months, $.01/Mile Increase — Every 120,000 Miles Driven - NO CAP.
No, but a safety bonus of $.005/mile is offered.
Celadon offers health insurance with all major standard benefits and options including life insurance and 401k retirement plans, vacation time, and 2 high-deductible health plans.
Medical base plan = $51.07/week.
Benefits are effective the first day of the month following a 60 day waiting period.
1 year = 1 week earned (paid out at $500)
Celadon's starting pay is average, with their team pay being on the higher end after 120,000 miles. The interesting part about Celadon's pay structure is that they offer $.01 cpm raises every 120,000 miles driven, with no cap on salary.
They also offer many financial incentives for teams, as well as the WageLock program, which guarantees a minimum weekly salary during slower periods, for qualified drivers.
Pets are allowed.
One immediate family member may ride for a maximum of 3 months with authorization.
No, new drivers are strictly OTR until 120,000 miles are completed.
Yes.
Company drivers are forced dispatch.
48 hours every 2 weeks.
95%
Yes. However, new students will not have the leasing option until the 120,000 miles are completed
Celadon runs all freight and routes except for tanker.
Celadon's offerings are typical for large carriers, but they do place an emphasis on team driving, by offering various salary incentives for teams.
International, Peterbilt, and Kenworth
Yes.
63 MPH
All trucks come with APU units
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Did you know you can fill out one quick form here on TruckingTruth and apply to several companies at once for paid CDL training? Seriously! The application only takes one minute. You will speak with recruiters today. There is no obligation whatsoever. Learn more and apply here:
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