Breaking into the trucking industry is not as taxing as others.
However, you still need specific requirements to get hold of your CDL. In this case, you need to complete an Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) program.
Now, if you’re aspiring to become a truck driver based in Buffalo but have no idea where to look for schools, you’ve come to the right place.
In this article, we’ll point you to the best trucking schools in Buffalo, NY.
And, we’re also giving you options.
If you’re a bit tight on your finances right now, we have listed down free company-sponsored schools. If you want to choose which company to work for, what truck to drive, and all that, then we have private schools, too.
So shall we begin?
Best Trucking Schools in Buffalo, NY (Private)
Choosing between private and company-sponsored schools is based on YOUR personal circumstances.
We say this because all private schools will require you to pay the training tuition upfront. And that can cost thousands of dollars.
But the advantage of going into private trucking schools is that they are usually closer to home. Plus, as we mentioned, you get to decide what truck you want to drive, as well as the company you want to work for.
If you want to go through this route, then here are the best private trucking schools in Buffalo, NY:
Let’s get into the details.
National Tractor Trailer School
Address: 175 Katherine Street, Buffalo, NY 14210
Phone: 844-967-0407
National Tractor Trailer School (NTTS) is one of the most established New York-founded trucking schools.
It has accreditations from the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC) and the Professional Truck Driver Institute (PTDI).
So if you’re looking for trusted and quality training, this is the school to go to.
Now, the school’s approach to truck training is a 3-step method: theory, demonstration, and real-life application.
Theory or classroom training is heavily supported by student textbooks, CDL manuals, CDL permit preparations, and road guides such as atlases and maps.
All these are taught by qualified NTTS instructors.
In the demonstration portion, you get to use shifting simulation and other learning equipment to get a feel of actual trucks’ mechanisms.
Once you pass this stage, you then go straight to the real-life application where you go behind the wheel of an actual truck.
NTTS stands out with these program features:
- It has a truck simulator where students can practice, which is a helpful experience before you drive a truck.
- It has varying program options that range from basic to advanced courses, as well as refresher courses.
- It helps you find a job afterward since it has several partners.
Stevens Driving School
Address: 4060 Seneca St, Buffalo, NY 14224-3020
Phone: 716-884-3103
Stevens Driving School is another one of New York’s local favorites.
It services a lot of areas in the state — yes, including Buffalo —- so you can choose to train in a different area if you wish to.
On top of that, it is one of the most affordable trucking schools that doesn’t sacrifice the quality of teaching.
Plus, it offers comprehensive discussions within classrooms, and even during practical applications, to help students understand and retain information.
What’s more, it offers both Class A and Class B CDL training. Whatever type you choose, you will still get all of these stand-out features that students love:
- 1-on-1 in truck training. From the time you emerge from the classroom to sitting behind the wheels, you get your instructor’s full attention.
- Driving in at least 3 different locations or scenes is a must. Here in Stevens, you will experience how to drive and maneuver your truck in rural, urban, and highway locations.
- Equipment and vehicles are new. With this, you get to learn how to use new mechanisms that you will probably encounter in future jobs.
Buffalo CDL Training Institute
Address: 1630 Eggert Rd. Suite 200, Amherst, NY 14226
Phone: 716-834-2000
Not sure what type of truck you want to specialize in?
If you want a preview of what it’s like to drive different types of CMVs, then Buffalo CDL Training Institute can help you.
You can give them a call and hear what the staff recommends for you. From there, you can decide what program to take.
This school offers training for all different types of trucks and vehicles, from heavy equipment and fleets to Class A, Class B, and Class C.
Once you’ve enrolled in your program, you get practicing professionals and drivers as your instructors and even mentors. Whether you’re inside the classroom or on-site training, there’ll be a good number of people to help you out.
Students who enroll in this school commend the following:
- All instructors are very hands-on. Even the crew who assists you on the actual training is very attentive.
- There are multiple program choices due to the availability of all vehicle types.
Additional Trucking Schools Near Buffalo, NY
Since quality trucking schools within Buffalo are limited, here are a few options near the area you can add to your list:
Buffalo Tractor Trailer Institute
Address: 3999 Lake Shore Road, Blasdell, NY 14219
Phone Number: 1-716-0044
Estimated time from Buffalo: 13 minutes
CLA Driver’s Training
Address: Kenmore, NY
Phone Number: 470-377-4966
Estimated time from Buffalo: 17 minutes
Best Free Company-Sponsored Trucking Schools
If you’re currently in no position to pay for your training, then don’t fret.
Thankfully, many trucking companies give FREE training.
Yes, they will pay for your program. Some companies even provide an allowance.
And the best part is, you’re almost always guaranteed a job with the company right after getting your CDL.
If you want to go down this path, then here are the best free company-sponsored trucking schools available:
Roehl – On the top of our list is Roehl. Roehl is a well-decorated and recognized trucking company since it is one of the biggest ones in the country. It has over 7,000 trailers and 2,500 employees. So if you’re looking for good credentials and experience, we’re sure this is the training for you.
Pam’s Transport – Pam’s Transport is known as one of the most generous and hands-on trucking companies in the country. What do we mean by generous? They provide a $100 weekly allowance, plus an additional $100 Walmart coupon for the first 3 weeks. Since their sites are not in Buffalo, NY, we’re sure these will come in handy with your expenses.
Knight Transportation – Learning how to drive and maneuver a truck is no easy feat, especially for beginners. Good thing Knight Transportation goes the extra mile to make sure their students are comfortable during the entire program. They have vending machines, ice machines, and lounges on all of their sites! You can utilize these to de-stress in between your breaks and after your sessions.
Conclusion
And that concludes your guide to the best trucking schools in Buffalo, NY.
If you want to stay within the city, then it’s a good idea to go to a private trucking school. Sure, there aren’t many available — but the available ones are sure to provide excellent training.
Want a sure job? Hard on cash? Then check out the best company-sponsored trucking schools in the country.
So what are you waiting for?
Make your pick today and get started.
Good luck!