How to Start a Truck Driving School

Part 1 - How to start a Truck Driving School business - Background

Our roadways are used every day to move products and supplies from one end of the country to the other. Truck drivers are responsible for making sure these deliveries arrive safely and on time. Operators require a specific set of skills and knowledge, as the safety of those they share the roadways with are in their hands. A truck driving school helps operators build a solid foundation of knowledge and skills, providing classroom and hands on education. This is the first requirement for obtaining a commercial driver’s license (CDL).

Our guide is in 3 parts:

• Part 1 - How to start a Truck Driving School business - Background
• Part 2 - Our planner tool to see if this idea is the right fit for you
• Part 3 - Action plan to get started

What are the costs involved in opening a truck driving school?

Opening a school of any kind does require a significant amount of starting capital. The following should be included in your initial budget:

• Location – Your investment should have enough space for classrooms, as well as driving practice, which must be closed off from public traffic.

• Catalog – Every CDL school is required to have informational materials that are distributed to applicants and students. Requirements vary by state and accreditation.

• Educational Materials – In addition to your catalog, it’s a good idea to have a library, stocked with books and videos. This will assist students has they strive for higher learning. Visual aids, tools, and emergency equipment are also recommended. Your classrooms should also have A/V equipment, such as overhead projectors, chalkboards, and/or DVDs. Some schools choose to invest in training simulators. While this is a helpful tool, it should never replace the hands-on training one gets from driving an actual truck.

• Business software – You will need to invest in software to help manage your business. Scheduling software will assist you in scheduling driving lessons. Accounting software will help keep your books in order. It is also important that your student’s records are kept accurately and safely, and can be accessed for students quickly when needed.

• Trucks – To earn a reputation as a great driving school, you will need to keep your student to truck ratio low. This ensures each student receives the proper hands-on instruction and experience. While the vehicles don’t need to be brand new, it’s recommended that your school have well-maintained newer models.

• Teacher – You will need at least one reliable and qualified instructor.

• Advertising and marketing materials, including a website

Some school business owners report start-up capital requirements as low as $15,000, while others report spending upwards of $125,000.

What are the ongoing expenses for a truck driving school?

As indicated, it is recommended that you offer a PTDI-certified course, which will set you back almost $4,000. Additional costs include:

• Payroll

• Ongoing maintenance on your fleet of trucks

• Cost for printed material, both educational and marketing/advertising

• Overhead costs such as electric, phone, and Internet.

• Supplies

• Insurance

Who is the target market?

Your marketing efforts should be geared towards aspiring truck drivers across the country.

How does a truck driving school make money?

Your business will generate revenue from each student that signs up to complete your course.

How much can you charge customers?

The average tuition for a CDL school is $4,000 to $7,000. Prices vary based on region and reputation.

How much profit can a truck driving school make?

If you offer a 6 week class, with each class capped at 10 students, you will see 80 students per year. Use the standard tuition fee of $4,000 per student and you have generated $320,000 in revenue. If your ongoing expenses average $4,000 per month, you are still realizing a profit of $272,000.

How can you make your business more profitable?

As mentioned, your school will realize greater profits when you are able to offer a PTDI-certified course. In addition to a stronger reputation, the support PTDI offers will increase your school’s visibility. Once your school has built a strong reputation, many schools have found success offering franchise opportunities to other aspiring truck driving school owners. Many schools also offer continuing education programs and sell school-related products, such as hats and t-shirts.

Day-to-Day and Growth

What happens during a typical day at a truck driving school?

Operating a truck driving school means managing many moving parts. Your students will require both classroom and hands-on training. The curriculum must remain up-to-date, so it is critical that teachers remain abreast of emerging trends and the latest industry news. Accurate records must be maintained on every level of the business. Financials should be kept in order and student records must be organized. Many schools offer assistance with job placement upon course completion. While it is not recommended that you guarantee a job to each graduating student, a job placement program should be a part of your business plan.

What are some skills and experiences that will help you build a successful truck driving school?

If you do not have experience working as a CDL driver, it is critical that you find someone who does have such experience and the ability to manage your business. Teachers are required to have a certain amount of experience, which varies by state. All driving instructors are also required to pass a state-approved driving instructor training class. Upon completion, they can apply for a CDL instructor license application. Check with your local DMV for more information.

Additionally, it is critical that you have strong business acumen, as managing a successful school requires a great deal of organization and the ability to make critical decisions with ease. Since interaction with students and staff is regular, strong communication skills are critical.

What is the growth potential for a truck driving school?

While there are several other methods available for transporting goods, trucks are still the preferred choice for many items. The demand for reliable and skilled truck drivers will always be high, making a truck driving school a worthy long-term investment. Entrepreneurs are urged to conduct thorough research ahead of time to ensure demand in the area is high.

What are some insider tips for jump starting a truck driving school?

Leaders in this industry offer the following advice, based on years in the field:

• Keep accurate records of everything. Understanding your sales, ongoing expenses, etc. will help you reach your goals on time and under budget.

• While some schools offer less training, it is recommended that your courses run for a minimum of 4-6 weeks of daily training.

• Reevaluate your school regularly. Failing to do so will only hinder your progress.

Strive to offer a Professional Truck Driver Institute (PTDI)-certified course. This will add significant value to your school. Accreditation is also recommended.

How and when to build a team

Payroll costs will be your biggest expense. Therefore, many schools trim the fat wherever possible when it comes to the team they employ. While high payroll costs stand to cut into your profit, it is critical that you have enough staff to cover your needs. Each member of your team should be educated and have a significant amount of experience in the field. They must be good communicators and have the patience to answer the multitude of questions someone just starting out may have.

Part 2 - Is a Truck Driving School business the right fit for you?

Part 3 - Action plan to launch your Truck Driving School business in 90 days