Yes, there are SO many trucking schools in Arkansas.
There are the big names that are located nationwide.
Then there are the smaller, independent schools that are hidden away.
In this article, we’re going to review both types for you.
This way, you can find the one that suits YOUR needs and preferences.
What’s more, the schools we pick here are only the best of the best.
So are you ready to learn about the best trucking schools in Arkansas?
Let’s go!
The 5 Best Trucking Schools in Arkansas (Private)
Here are the top 5 best trucking schools in Arkansas:
- 160 Driving Academy
- CDL Academy Network
- Cops CDL Academy LLC
- Northwest Technical Institute
- Pine Bluff Truck Driving School
Let’s take a peek into what each school offers…
160 Driving Academy
3807 McCain Park Drive Suite 110, North Little Rock, AR 72116
(501) 203-9576
3162 W. Martin Luther King Blvd, Suite 10, Fayetteville, AR 72704
(479) 255-1151
The 160 Driving Academy is one of the biggest nationwide providers of trucking education in the US.
And they have two locations right here in Arkansas.
Through the years, the school rightfully earned its place as an icon in the world of trucking.
This is thanks to the talented truck drivers they produce, year in and year out.
Much of that is down to its comprehensive training program.
It walks trainees through all the aspects they’ll need to know as a trucker — whether in theory or practice.
For that very reason, many of the 160 Driving Academy graduates are now working in Fortune 500 companies — earning above the industry average.
If you train here, your name will surely be in demand.
So if you’re looking to get the best trucking training and job, 160 Driving Academy is your best bet!
Additional benefits include:
- Supports women and veterans in trucking
- Has small classes for better individual focus
- Offers financing assistance
CDL Academy Network
5111 Rogers Avenue, Suite 418, Fort Smith, Arkansas 72903
6221 Colonel Glenn Rd A, Little Rock, Arkansas 72204
3567 HIGHWAY 367 S., Searcy, Arkansas 72143
479-259-1806 OR 501-358-4900
Maybe you aren’t interested in a nationwide trucking school…
Well, The CDL Academy Network is a leading local trucking school with 3 facilities in different cities.
This school goes above and beyond to help its students.
The team isn’t just there to train you on all you should know.
They’re there to help you find a job.
They’ll even start looking for job opportunities while you’re still training with them!
Plus, given its status in Arkansas, the CDL Academy Network has a rich network of big logistic firms in the region.
Rest assured they’ll stick with you every step of the way.
What can you expect from the program?
It starts off with theory – classroom instruction.
Then it builds up as you go along.
You’ll end with behind-the-wheel training on a big rig.
Other benefits you’ll get are:
- Great training facilities
- Financing support
- Friendly staff
Cops CDL Academy LLC
2407 Lost Beach Crossing, Van Buren, AR 72956
479-632-1050
Looking for a smaller trucking school that still offers quality training?
Cops CDL Academy LLC is a new school (it opened in 2022!) that made its mark in Van Buren, AR.
This trucking school takes students in on a weekly basis, making it much easier to start whenever you feel like it.
Moreover, class sizes are kept small.
This gives each student the attention and personalized training they need to succeed by the end of the 5-week program.
As you might notice, the school devotes more hours to each student — compared to other schools in Arkansas that typically offer a 4-week program.
They’ve also aimed to keep costs low.
Though you aren’t guaranteed job placement here, the instructors will make sure you’re ready to impress anyone.
Some other benefits include:
- Dedicated instructors
- Financing and grant options
- Has programs for Hazmat endorsement
Northwest Technical Institute
709 S Old Missouri Rd, Springdale, AR 72764
479-751-8824
The Northwest Technical Institute is a publicly owned technical college that offers Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) regulations.
And since it’s a technical college, you can expect the program to be more affordable than other trucking schools.
Its training program ticks all the boxes when it comes to the CDL test, going over all the theory and practical skills you’ll need.
The 160-hour program takes place over 4 weeks — with classes going on during weekdays.
They’ve also got great facilities that’ll give you a safe place to practice before you’re ready for real-world training.
However, being a technical college, it does have strict enrollment and end dates.
You’ll have to plan ahead if you’re looking to join.
Moreover, it might not be as comprehensive as private trucking schools.
Although, yes, you will learn all the basics.
Some other benefits include:
- Experienced instructors
- Has modern equipment
- Offers online classroom programs for the theory
Pine Bluff Truck Driving School
4208 Hwy 65 South, Pine Bluff, AR 71601
870-534-0800
Want to get done with truck training as soon as possible?
Pine Bluff Truck Driving School offers 3-week training programs.
To maximize your time, you’ll enjoy a small student-to-instructor ratio.
And don’t worry…
All the instructors are committed to giving you the attention you need to clarify any doubts before the final test.
Plus, practical training is conducted 1-on-1, allowing you to have your instructor’s undivided attention.
For your first week, you’ll find yourself in the classroom studying all theory.
The second week will focus on shifting and driving a tractor-trailer.
The last week will see you backing up a truck — and taking the final test.
Of course, the program comes with all the goods, too — financial assistance, job placement (in fact they boast a 95% placement rate), all the necessary tools, and more!
Some other benefits include:
- Weekly admission
- Has payment plans
- Awesome facilities
Other Top Trucking Schools in Arkansas
Looking for more options?
Then here are other trucking schools in Arkansas that you can check out…
WorldLink Truck Driving Academy
330 Mid-State Truck Plaza, North Little Rock, AR 72217
870-664-7264
Mid-America Truck Driving School
375 Alcoa Road (Jones Mill Ind. Park), Malvern, AR 72104
(501) 844-4496 OR (877) 844-4496
1609 N. Old Missouri Rd (Hwy 265), Springdale, AR 72764
(479) 756-1977, (501) 282-8031, OR (877) 844-4496
Best Free Company-Sponsored Trucking Schools
Yes, not everyone can afford private trucking schools…
Even with financial assistance.
But not all hope is lost!
You can try out company-sponsored trucking schools instead.
These schools are offered by leading logistic firms looking to train their own truck drivers.
So it makes sense that they provide FREE training and a job right after you get your CDL.
Say you want to go down this path…
Here are some of the best company-sponsored trucking schools…
Swift Transportation
Swift Transportation is a great pick as they’re always on the lookout for new truck drivers.
While they aren’t located in Arkansas, they’ve got a variety of training locations that are just a few hours away.
Plus, they’ll cover the transport costs involved and even pay you weekly to attend their classes!
Some other benefits their graduates get to enjoy are:
- 401k plan
- Medical insurance
- Vacation pay and home time
Admission requirements:
- The minimum age requirement is 23 years old (21 if you have military experience).
- No DWI or DUI convictions.
- No reckless driving convictions within the past three years.
- No more than one moving violation within the past year and no more than three within the past three years.
- No major preventable accidents in the past twelve months or more than two in the past five years.
- No more than one driver’s license suspension within the past three years.
- Completing the Workwell Physical Assessment, a DOT physical, and DOT-controlled substance and alcohol testing.
- Completion of a conviction form for all misdemeanor or felony convictions.
TMC
Another excellent sponsored school that’s looking for truckers all around is TMC.
They offer an industry-leading 3-week program for accepted candidates. This covers everything you need to start trucking.
Training facilities aren’t in Arkansas. Instead, they are located in Des Moines, Iowa, Columbia, and South Carolina.
However, TMC covers all the traveling expenses, as well as provides free board and $500 a week while you train.
Some other benefits include:
- Complete job security
- Employee Stock Ownership Plan
- Medical insurance
Conclusion
Now you know the best trucking schools in Arkansas.
So go ahead and pick out the one that suits YOU.
If not, then you can try out company-sponsored trucking schools.
Best of luck!