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Cdl Instructor Jobs in Rochester, NY (NOW HIRING)

Topside Enterprise llc

CDL Driver

Williamson, NY · Remote

$25/hr

We are seeking a CDL A Driver to join our team! You will be responsible for safely operating a truck with a capacity of at least 26,000 pounds Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW). Responsibilities: * Safely ...

Mountain Fleet LLC

CDL Driver

West Henrietta, NY · On-site

$45K - $85K/yr

Mountain Fleet is hiring Class A CDL drivers to transport goods and freight safely and on time. You will be responsible for vehicle inspections, route planning, and maintaining compliance with all ...

Mountain Fleet LLC

CDL Driver

West Henrietta, NY · On-site

$45K - $85K/yr

Mountain Fleet is hiring Class A CDL drivers to transport goods and freight safely and on time. You will be responsible for vehicle inspections, route planning, and maintaining compliance with all ...

Point Dedicated

CDL-A Team Drivers

Elba, NY

$185K - $200K/yr

Point Dedicated is currently seeking Experienced Team CDL Drivers! Here at Point Dedicated we treat our Drivers like Family! Point Dedicated has been operating successfully since 1926!Below are just ...

Point Dedicated

CDL-A Team Drivers

Batavia, NY

$185K - $200K/yr

Point Dedicated is currently seeking Experienced Team CDL Drivers! Here at Point Dedicated we treat our Drivers like Family! Point Dedicated has been operating successfully since 1926!Below are just ...

Point Dedicated

CDL-A Team Drivers

Elba, NY

$185K - $200K/yr

Point Dedicated is currently seeking Experienced Team CDL Drivers! Here at Point Dedicated we treat our Drivers like Family! Point Dedicated has been operating successfully since 1926!Below are just ...

Point Dedicated

CDL-A Team Drivers

Batavia, NY

$185K - $200K/yr

Point Dedicated is currently seeking Experienced Team CDL Drivers! Here at Point Dedicated we treat our Drivers like Family! Point Dedicated has been operating successfully since 1926!Below are just ...

Point Dedicated

CDL-A Team Drivers

Batavia, NY

$185K - $200K/yr

Point Dedicated is currently seeking Experienced Team CDL Drivers! Here at Point Dedicated we treat our Drivers like Family! Point Dedicated has been operating successfully since 1926!Below are just ...

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All JobsCdl Instructor JobsCdl Instructor Jobs in Rochester, NY

Cdl Instructor information

See Rochester, NY salary details

$14

$23

$34

How much do cdl instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for cdl instructor in Rochester, NY is $24.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.38 and $26.35 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the common challenges CDL Instructors face when training new drivers, and how can they be addressed?

CDL Instructors often encounter challenges such as varying skill levels among students, language barriers, and ensuring that all trainees understand and adhere to safety regulations. Managing a classroom with diverse backgrounds requires strong communication and adaptability. To address these challenges, instructors typically use a combination of hands-on demonstrations, clear instructions, and individualized coaching. Additionally, fostering a supportive learning environment helps students feel comfortable asking questions and making progress at their own pace.

What is the difference between Cdl Instructor vs Truck Driver?

AspectCdl InstructorTruck Driver
Required CertificationsCommercial Driver's License (CDL), Instructor CertificationCommercial Driver's License (CDL)
Work EnvironmentTraining schools, classrooms, driving rangesOn the road, freight yards, delivery routes
Employer & Industry UsageTraining institutions, trucking schoolsTransportation companies, freight carriers

While both roles require a CDL license, a Cdl Instructor focuses on teaching and training new drivers in a classroom or controlled environment, whereas a Truck Driver operates commercial vehicles on the road for transportation and delivery. The instructor role emphasizes education and safety training, while the driver role emphasizes logistics and operational skills.

How much do truck driver instructors make?

Truck driver instructors typically earn between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and employer. They often hold commercial driver’s licenses (CDLs) and may work for driving schools or transportation companies, sometimes earning additional pay for training hours or certifications.

What Does a CDL Instructor Do?

A commercial driver’s license (CDL) is required for drivers who want to operate trucks, buses, and other large vehicles. A CDL instructor teaches students how to operate these vehicles and pass the CDL exam. In this role, you work with students both in the classroom and on the road. Your job duties focus on teaching them to operate a vehicle safely in a structured area as well as on public roads, and to learn the skills necessary to pass their state’s CDL exam. CDL instructors must earn certification before they begin teaching at a truck driving school or vocational college.

What are CDL Instructors?

CDL Instructors are professional trainers who teach students how to safely operate commercial motor vehicles, such as trucks and buses, in order to obtain their Commercial Driver’s License (CDL). They provide both classroom instruction on regulations, safety, and vehicle systems, as well as hands-on training behind the wheel. CDL Instructors are responsible for preparing students to pass written and skills exams required by state and federal agencies. Their role is crucial in ensuring new drivers are competent and compliant with transportation laws.

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

To thrive as a CDL Instructor, you need a valid commercial driver’s license (CDL), extensive driving experience, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with commercial vehicle operation, Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations, and training aids or simulators is essential. Patience, strong communication, and the ability to provide constructive feedback are key soft skills for effectively teaching diverse learners. These skills ensure that future commercial drivers are trained safely and competently, supporting public safety and regulatory compliance.

Is it worth being a driving instructor?

A CDL instructor trains new commercial drivers on safety, regulations, and vehicle operation, often working for driving schools or transportation companies. The role offers a stable schedule, the opportunity to share expertise, and requires certification and driving experience. Job satisfaction depends on personal interest in teaching and the demand for CDL training in the area.
More about Cdl Instructor jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Cdl Instructor jobs in Rochester, NY? The most popular types of Cdl Instructor jobs in Rochester, NY are:
What job categories do people searching Cdl Instructor jobs in Rochester, NY look for? The top searched job categories for Cdl Instructor jobs in Rochester, NY are:
What cities near Rochester, NY are hiring for Cdl Instructor jobs? Cities near Rochester, NY with the most Cdl Instructor job openings:
Cdl Instructor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cdl Instructor job openings in Rochester, NY as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $49,911 per year, or $24 per hour.
Class A Driving Instructor

Class A Driving Instructor

Leonard's Express Inc

Farmington, NY • On-site

$27 - $28/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 2 days ago

Job description

Description:


Join a Team That Invests in You


Canandaigua Driving School is growing, and we’re looking for a Class A CDL Driving Instructor to help train the next generation of safe, confident commercial drivers. If you enjoy teaching, mentoring, and making a real impact, this is a rewarding opportunity with excellent pay, stability, and full benefits.


This is a full-time, day-shift position located at our Farmington, NY training facility.


What’s In It for You
  • A supportive, team-oriented work environment
  • Competitive hourly pay: $27–$287/hr (based on experience)
  • Weekly pay
  • Comprehensive benefits package including:
    • Medical (Excellus Blue Cross/Blue Shield)
    • Prescription, dental, and vision coverage
    • Wellness program
  • 401(k) with up to 4% company match
  • Company-paid life insurance
  • Paid Time Off + Paid Holidays
  • On-site gym + gym membership reimbursement
Who Thrives in This Role

We’re looking for someone who:

  • Has previous driving instructor experience
  • Communicates clearly—both verbally and non-verbally
  • Shows patience and professionalism with new drivers

We also welcome applicants who:

  • Have teaching or training experience in any field
  • Have no formal training background but maintain an excellent work record and a positive, coachable attitude
What You’ll Do

As a CDL Instructor, you’ll provide hands-on and classroom instruction to help students safely operate Class A and Class B commercial vehicles.


Essential Duties
  • Teach core driving skills: turns, curves, backing, intersections, etc.
  • Train students on proper safety inspections
  • Evaluate student progress and determine readiness for road instruction
  • Provide instruction on upgrades, downgrades, starting, and stopping
  • Maintain a positive, encouraging learning environment
  • Perform additional duties as assigned
Additional Expectations
  • Demonstrate patience and professionalism with students of all skill levels
  • Communicate effectively with both new and experienced drivers
  • Adapt teaching methods to individual learning styles
  • Exercise sound judgment and discretion
  • Show leadership and a commitment to continuous improvement
Requirements:

(Some requirements are mandated by New York State law.)


Education & Experience
  • At least 21 years of age
  • High School Diploma or High School Equivalency
  • Minimum 2 years of Class A CDL driving experience with an active CDL and no suspensions or revocations in the past 2 years
  • Must pass NY DMV written, visual, road sign, and road tests
  • Must not have been convicted of a felony or crimes involving violence, dishonesty, deceit, indecency, or degeneracy (per NYS regulations)
Physical Requirements

This role involves outdoor instruction in varying weather conditions. You must be able to:

  • Occasionally lift/move up to 50 lbs
  • Bend, kneel, or lie down outdoors as needed
  • Stand and walk on hard surfaces for most of the shift while observing students


How to Apply


Apply directly through this posting or call us at 585-742-2303.


About Us

Canandaigua Driving School is part of the Leonard’s Express Family of Companies, a family-owned transportation provider headquartered in Farmington, NY with locations nationwide. We deliver dependable, creative, and cost-effective transportation solutions across a wide range of industries.


We offer diverse career opportunities across New York, Delaware, North Carolina, Idaho, and beyond—whether your background is in driving, operations, maintenance, safety, HR, IT, finance, recruiting, or customer service.


Equal Opportunity Employer

All Leonard’s Express companies are equal opportunity employers. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, veteran status, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other characteristic protected by law.