Earn your commercial driver's license (CDL) in as little as 4 weeks at Smart CDL Academy in Irving, TX. All programs are FMCSA-compliant and meet Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) standards — with options to fit your current commitments, affordable payment arrangements, and employer connections after graduation.
Registered FMCSA Entry-Level Driver Training provider. Every program meets federal CDL compliance standards. Learn about ELDT →
Authorized Texas DPS Third Party Skills Test Provider (TPST #0221) — test on our Irving campus, not a crowded DPS office. Details →
Day, evening, and weekend class options — train around your current job. No need to quit.
Affordable tuition options and payment arrangements available — ask our admissions team.
Dedicated career support after graduation — connecting you with employers hiring across the DFW Metroplex.
Whether you're making a career change or entering commercial driving for the first time, Smart CDL Academy has the right program for you. CDL training is one of the most in-demand forms of vocational training in the DFW area right now — and our accelerated curriculum gets you from student to licensed professional quickly.
Every program is fully compliant with FMCSA Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) requirements. Each combines classroom instruction, extensive behind-the-wheel practice, and thorough preparation for the pre-trip inspection and CDL skills test.
All programs are available with flexible scheduling — designed for working adults across the DFW Metroplex.
The Class A CDL authorizes you to operate tractor-trailers and combination vehicles — opening the door to the highest-paying truck driving careers available. Class A holders qualify for OTR, regional, and local routes with average starting salaries of $55K–$85K+.
Financing and payment plans available — ask our admissions team about options
Explore the Class A CDL Program
The Class B CDL certifies you to operate heavy straight trucks, dump trucks, buses, and other large single vehicles. This license is ideal for local delivery, construction, and transit careers — routes that let you be home daily. DFW-area positions typically pay $45K–$65K.
Morning, evening, or weekend sessions — train on your schedule and be home every night
View the Class B CDL Program
Designed for licensed CDL holders returning to the workforce after 12 months or longer, this course delivers targeted behind-the-wheel instruction to sharpen your skills on modern equipment and bring you current with today's DOT regulations.
Practical, targeted instruction built around your existing experience — not a beginner's program
Discover the CDL Refresher CourseAlready have your CDL — or about to earn one? CDL endorsements are add-on certifications that expand what you're legally qualified to drive or haul. Endorsed drivers consistently earn more and qualify for a wider range of carrier roles across the region. Smart CDL Academy offers all six major endorsement types at our Irving campus.
Qualify to transport hazardous materials — one of the highest-earning CDL specializations. Requires TSA background check and written exam.
Operate tank vehicles carrying liquid or gaseous cargo — in high demand across the DFW area for fuel and chemical transport. Written exam only.
Transport 16 or more passengers — opens doors to transit, charter, and shuttle careers throughout the DFW Metroplex and beyond.
Drive school buses — stable local work with great schedules. Requires skills test and background check.
Pull double or triple trailers legally — increases route eligibility and makes you more valuable to carriers. Class A holders only. Written exam only.
The highest-earning CDL endorsement — combines HazMat + Tanker for chemical and fuel transport careers.
Endorsements are optional add-ons to your existing CDL — not prerequisites for new students.
When you're comparing commercial driving programs, the details matter. Here's what sets Smart CDL Academy apart from other schools in the region.
Skip the DPS wait — take your official CDL skills test right here on our Irving campus. As an authorized Texas DPS Third Party Skills Testing center, you test in the same vehicle you trained in, on a course you already know.
Our intensive curriculum takes you from enrollment to licensed CDL holder on an accelerated timeline — designed to get you on the road and earning as quickly as possible.
No need to quit your current job to train for a new career. Class options span morning, evening, and weekend sessions — built for working adults balancing CDL training with everyday commitments.
Affordable options make commercial driver training accessible for working adults in the DFW area. Talk to our admissions team — cost should not stand between you and a commercial driving career.
Our career team connects graduates with reputable carriers and employers actively hiring licensed CDL holders across the DFW Metroplex and beyond.
Getting started at Smart CDL Academy is straightforward. Before you begin, confirm you meet the basic CDL requirements — then follow these three steps to go from applicant to licensed commercial driver.
Confirm eligibility — a valid driver's license, DOT physical examination, and a clean driving record. Review the full CDL requirements before you enroll.
Obtain your Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP) — the written knowledge test that comes before behind-the-wheel training begins. We'll walk you through the process.
Choose your program and a start date that works for you — multiple class formats available throughout the week. Affordable tuition arrangements make it easy to get started.
Our Irving, TX campus is centrally located in the DFW Metroplex — one of the nation's largest freight hubs and among the most active markets in the transportation industry. North Texas depends on qualified CDL drivers, and demand has never been higher.
Find location-specific information for your area: Dallas · Fort Worth · Arlington · Plano · Garland · Grand Prairie
Not sure which program is right for you? Our admissions team can help you choose the best fit for your career goals, schedule, and budget.
Yes. Smart CDL Academy offers flexible payment plans and financing options for all CDL programs. Our admissions team will work with you to find a payment arrangement that fits your budget — cost should not stand between you and your commercial driver's license.
Multiple class formats are available throughout the week — morning, afternoon, and weekend options designed for working adults balancing training with existing commitments. Contact admissions for next available start dates.
Our fast-track program can be completed in as little as 4 weeks. Timeline depends on program and schedule selected. Call 972-989-6450 to discuss the best option for your goals.
Class A covers combination vehicles — tractor-trailers and multi-vehicle combinations — with higher average salaries. Class B covers large single vehicles like straight trucks and buses — typically local routes with home-every-night schedules. Both programs are available at our Irving campus with ELDT-compliant training.
Yes. Smart CDL Academy offers training for all 6 major endorsement types: HazMat (H), Tanker (N), Passenger (P), School Bus (S), Doubles/Triples (T), and Combination (X). See our CDL endorsement programs page for details.
Texas's ongoing driver shortage means qualified CDL graduates find work quickly — carriers across the DFW Metroplex are actively competing for licensed drivers. Whether you're aiming for Class A tractor-trailer jobs paying $55K–$85K+ or local Class B positions with home-every-night routes, Smart CDL Academy gives you the fastest, most reliable path to a rewarding career.
With our fast-track 4-week program, flexible day and evening class schedules, financing and payment plans, and dedicated job placement assistance after graduation — there has never been a better time to earn your CDL. Located at 7700 Esters Blvd, Irving, TX 75063. Contact our admissions team today.