1

Cdl Apprentice Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Driver Apprentice will continue in this role until they complete all training requirements. II. ... CDL Permit IV. Physical Requirements Listed below are key points regarding physical demands ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Cdl Apprentice information

See salary details

$11

$19

$28

How much do cdl apprentice jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for cdl apprentice in the United States is $19.36, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $21.15 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a CDL Apprentice, and why are they important?

To thrive as a CDL Apprentice, you need a valid driver's license, basic knowledge of vehicle operation and safety, and the ability to pass DOT physical exams. Training involves learning to use commercial vehicles, logbooks, GPS navigation, and compliance with federal safety regulations, often supported by entry into a CDL training program. Strong attention to detail, reliability, and effective communication skills help apprentices navigate challenging driving conditions and coordinate with team members. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring safety, regulatory compliance, and successful progression to a full commercial driving role.

What is a CDL apprentice?

A CDL apprentice is someone who is training to become a commercial truck driver by working under the supervision of experienced drivers and instructors. During the apprenticeship, individuals learn essential skills for operating commercial vehicles, prepare for the Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) exam, and gain hands-on experience in real-world driving situations. This role is often part of a formal program offered by trucking companies or training schools, and it helps new drivers build confidence and meet the necessary requirements for obtaining a CDL. Apprenticeships can also lead to full-time employment with the sponsoring company after successful completion.

What are some common challenges CDL Apprentices face during their training period?

CDL Apprentices often encounter challenges such as adapting to the physical demands of long hours on the road, learning to operate large commercial vehicles safely in diverse traffic and weather conditions, and mastering federal and state transportation regulations. Building confidence behind the wheel while under the supervision of a mentor can also be demanding, especially when navigating unfamiliar routes or complex delivery schedules. However, most companies provide ongoing support, structured training, and feedback to help apprentices overcome these hurdles and develop into competent professional drivers.

What is the difference between Cdl Apprentice vs Cdl Driver?

AspectCdl ApprenticeCdl Driver
CredentialsLearner's permit, basic CDL trainingValid CDL license, experience
Work EnvironmentTraining sites, company yardsOn-road, long-haul or local routes
Employer UsageTraining programs, entry-level positionsFull-time driving roles, transportation companies

The main difference is that a Cdl Apprentice is in training, focusing on learning and gaining experience, while a Cdl Driver has obtained a valid CDL license and is actively operating commercial vehicles. Apprentices are typically in a learning phase, whereas drivers are fully qualified professionals performing their job duties.

More about Cdl Apprentice jobs
What cities are hiring for Cdl Apprentice jobs? Cities with the most Cdl Apprentice job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Cdl jobs? The most popular types of Cdl jobs are:
What states have the most Cdl Apprentice jobs? States with the most job openings for Cdl Apprentice jobs include:
Infographic showing various Cdl Apprentice job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, and 5% Part Time. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $40,268 per year, or $19.4 per hour.
CDL Driver Apprentice

CDL Driver Apprentice

Casella Waste Systems, Inc.

Perkiomenville, PA • On-site

Full-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Overview

The CDL Driver Apprentice, which is an entry level role, holds a Commercial Driving Permit and complete the Federally required CDL instruction and training to safely operate a commercial motor vehicle providing service to customers in their respective Line of Business (LOB) while working alongside a knowledgeable Casella Waste Driver Trainer. The incumbent will continue in the apprentice role until all training requirements are completed and they have passed the CDL licensing exam and road test.

Candidates for the CDL Driver Apprentice must be in the process of obtaining their CDL Permit. Route driving experience required.

Are you ready to begin your career as a Casella Driver and commit to the successful completion of a CDL program? Casella will cover all costs associated with the training program and provide you an onboarding and cultural experience at our Home Office in Rutland, VT, where the company was founded in 1975!

Drivers at Casella participate in a Career Pathways Program that offers exceptional Advancement Opportunity, Regular Merit Increases, and Safety Bonus Incentives.


Responsibilities

  • Performs pre/post trip inspections of assigned vehicle in accordance with Casella safety standards as well as state and federal regulations; ensures all safety equipment and devices are operational and secured properly in vehicle; maintains appearance of truck in accordance with company standards.
  • Performs and exhibits dedication to safe operation of roll rear load, front load, side load, roll off trucks on streets, highways, customer sites, and construction sites.
  • Provides a distinguishably different level of service through courteous interactions with all customers and provides service in a timely manner; exhibits a positive attitude towards company, customer and municipal goals.
  • Follows route assignments and completes end of day documentation; completes all assigned company and federally mandated paperwork accurately.
  • Completes assigned route sheet for one Line of Business (LOB); empties all receptacles, places bins serviced at any location back where they were picked up in the upright position and cleans area around accidental waste spills.
  • Attends and participates in all scheduled training programs and meetings as required by Casella or Manager.
  • Notifies Dispatch immediately of any customer requests, service interruptions, incidents, accidents, property damage, or unsafe situations.
  • Always exhibits an ability to be observant and aware of surroundings and is mindful of all laborers on the truck and demonstrates an ability to use problem solving skills.
  • Assists driver with all backing maneuvers while on route.
  • Participates in training and other learning opportunities to expand knowledge of the company, products, sales and services and performs any other duties needed to help drive our vision, fulfill our mission, and/or abide by our core values.

Career Path Definitions & Distinctions

Apprentice: Completes training for Helper safety (Rear Load Residential), customer service training and required training to safely operate a commercial motor vehicle while providing service to customers in their line of business. Obtains CDL Permit.
Class I Driver: Demonstrates the ability to complete assigned route sheet for 1 Line of Business as well as ability to complete tasks necessary as to one of the following: Rear load, front load, side load, roll off trucks.
Class II Driver: Demonstrates the ability to complete assigned route sheet for 2 Lines of Business as well as ability to complete tasks necessary as to two of the following: Rear load, front load, side load, roll off trucks. Shows a development of improvement of communication skills with customers and coworkers. Exhibits evidence of increased knowledge of the company and industry. Illustrates an ability to be a mentor to new employees.
Class III Driver: Demonstrates the ability to complete assigned route sheet for 3 Lines of Business as well as ability to complete tasks necessary as to three of the following: Rear load, front load, side load, roll off trucks. Demonstrates an increased effort of providing positive contributions to the community on behalf of the community. Displays a capability to participate in training and development of new employees.
Lead Driver: Demonstrates the ability to develop driver training plans and coach employees to achieve successful outcomes. Exhibits the ability to complete assigned route sheets for all lines of business. Provides courteous customer service and communicates professionally with. Actively participates in the company’s progress with the career paths program and helps drivers to move up in their careers.


Qualifications

The successful candidate will have route driving experience, a High School Diploma or GED, must be at least 18 years of age, hold a state issued standard CDL Driver’s Class B permit with air brake endorsement or has the ability to get one within 6 months and must be legally eligible to work in the United States. The physical ability to handle objects more than 50lbs is expected frequently throughout the day and work under many different weather conditions is expected. Excellent verbal and written communication skills, effective listening and problem-solving skills, and dedication to providing excellent customer service is desired. It is also important that the candidate has demonstrated the ability to work as part of a team in a collaborative environment.

This position requires successful completion of pre-employment testing, including a drug screen.