Where To Get CDL For Low Cost? Phoenix, AZ Or Allen, TX?

I am living in Phoenix, AZ.

My first option is to go with Swift Trucking School in Phoenix for $4,000. Swift headquarters is literally in my hometown. Swift trucking school is more expensive then I want to pay for a CDL. I have to stick it out with Swift for 6 months before I can go with another trucking company which I don't want to do. I can handle OTR , but would rather do Regional. I don't care to do local.

My 2nd option is moving to Allen, Texas to get my CDL for less than a $1,000 and get a job in the Texas oil fields. I am running out of time and money and need to do something in the next 6 months. Anyone here work in the oil fields of Texas as a trucker?

This job market stinks. I have been laid off for two years with only part-time jobs and no benefits. Money is running out. Texas oil fields sounds tempting since its low cost to get CDL and high pay for rookie drivers. Some companies in Texas are in need of drivers such as Renegade, Cactus Oil drilling, Chesapeake, etc.

Any ideas? This is going to be a big investment for me.

Todd, I just applied with Knight, also out of Phx, and they will pay for your cdl and they pay you $400 a week while in training (6-7 weeks). They offer regional where you'd be only driving in the 11 most western states. Might be worth looking into. I'll hopefully be starting with them in the next month or so. You have to have your cdl training permit prior to starting with them but the High Road CDL Training program on this sight is excellent and I'd highly recommend doing it regardless of what you choose. Good luck in your search and keep us posted.

Todd, I seriously think you've misunderstood the training program at Swift. They will train you while your only commitment is to agree to work for them for one year. Now if that's what you are considering as paying them $4,000 dollars, you just can't look at it like that. You're going to be making money, and Swift is a great place to get your start - they will make sure you've got the tools you need to succeed and will keep you so busy you're going to be completely surprised at how fast that first year flies by.

I never looked at it that way oldschool. I always thought it was going to be a loan or cash out of pocket with Swift. I need to realize that they pay while in training. That definitely helps my situation. If Swift can keep me busy --- then great, that's what I need. They are worth going with.

I had spoke with Knight reps at a job fair and them seem to keep you busy too. The western region might work since you are home more frequently. I guess it don't matter as long as I am getting trucking experience my first year.

Much appreciated guys. Thanks.

Hey Todd. Swift can keep you regional as well since they run about 7 different regions throughout the country, however they won't guarantee that you will stay in that region you are still considered an OTR driver and subject to the 48 states. I am not sure how Knights program works, however I do know I have seen ads for them locally here in the Phoenix area for the 11 western states like Andy mentioned. One advantage for you that Swift may have over Knight is that Swift does run a lot of flatbed (as well as just about everything else), so if you are certain that you want to get into flatbeds then they may be able to get you in that direction. Being in the Phoenix area I would suggest either Knight, Swift, or Werner that I can think of at the moment. Swift and Knight both have local schools here in the valley and Werner uses a private school in the Phoenix area for training. Going to school locally will help you conserve on cash, so your not having to spend extra money on a motel and food. Good luck to you and hope you get your career started soon :)