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Commercial Driver Instructor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

SAGE is an established truck driver training leader across the country with a curriculum modeled after the highest training standards in the trucking industry. Requirements: * Valid Class A CDL ...

CDL Instructor (61181)

Cheyenne, WY · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

SAGE is an established truck driver training leader across the country with a curriculum modeled after the highest training standards in the trucking industry. Requirements: * Valid Class A CDL ...

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Commercial Driver Instructor information

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How much do commercial driver instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of May 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for commercial driver instructor in the United States is $21.37, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $21.63 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Commercial Driver Instructor, you need in-depth knowledge of commercial driving regulations, safe driving practices, and a valid commercial driver's license (CDL), often with an instructor endorsement. Familiarity with driver training simulators, electronic logging devices (ELDs), and vehicle inspection checklists is typically required. Strong communication, patience, and the ability to give constructive feedback are essential soft skills for effectively teaching diverse students. These skills and qualifications ensure safe, effective instruction and prepare students to meet legal and industry standards for commercial driving.

What are some common challenges faced by Commercial Driver Instructors, and how can they be addressed?

Commercial Driver Instructors often encounter challenges such as adapting teaching methods for students with varying levels of experience and nervousness, keeping up with changing regulations, and ensuring safety during behind-the-wheel training. To address these, instructors can attend regular professional development sessions, communicate clearly and patiently with trainees, and establish strict safety protocols. Building strong rapport with students and staying updated on industry standards also helps create a positive learning environment.

What are Commercial Driver Instructors?

Commercial Driver Instructors are professionals who teach individuals how to safely operate commercial vehicles such as trucks and buses. They provide both classroom instruction on traffic laws, safety regulations, and vehicle operation, as well as hands-on driving experience. Their role is essential in preparing students to obtain a commercial driver's license (CDL) and ensuring they understand the responsibilities and skills required for commercial driving careers.

What is the difference between Commercial Driver Instructor vs Commercial Driver Trainer?

AspectCommercial Driver InstructorCommercial Driver Trainer
CertificationsCommercial Driver's License (CDL), instructor certificationCDL, sometimes instructor certification
Work EnvironmentClassroom, behind-the-wheel training, testing sitesOn-the-road, in-company training, fleet vehicles
Employer & IndustryDriving schools, training centers, DMVTransportation companies, logistics firms

Both roles involve training commercial drivers, but Commercial Driver Instructors typically work in formal training settings with certification requirements, focusing on classroom and behind-the-wheel instruction. Commercial Driver Trainers often work within companies, providing on-the-road training for employees. While overlapping, the instructor role emphasizes certification and testing, whereas the trainer role is more operational within a company fleet.

More about Commercial Driver Instructor jobs
What states have the most Commercial Driver Instructor jobs? States with the most job openings for Commercial Driver Instructor jobs include:
CDL-A - Van Truckload Driver Instructor

CDL-A - Van Truckload Driver Instructor

Schneider

Gastonia, NC

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago


Schneider National rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 94 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

116th of 336 rated logistics


Job description


Van Truckload Driver Instructor

Home time: Daily

Experience: 12 months or greater CDL experience

Schedule
  • Monday through Friday, 06:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Job overview
  • Be accountable for coaching, mentoring and on-boarding new driver associates while they are in training.
  • Be responsible for teaching and evaluating the skills needed to be successful driver associates.
  • Perform hands-on training both in the classroom and in the truck.
  • Cover critical components of training, including safety, hours of service, trip-planning, workflow, tablet, policies and procedures.
  • Act as a safety advocate and driver retention ambassador for the organization.
  • Prepare new drivers for a safe and rewarding career with Schneider.
Job duties
  • Demonstrate and teach driving skills and techniques that align with Schneider Training Academy guidelines and training materials.
  • Facilitate on the job, in-truck training on the electronic tablet and Schneider’s workflow system.
  • Recognize and correct unsafe driving habits.
  • Provide verbal and written feedback and suggestions for improvement.
  • Evaluate and provide updates on candidates who are not meeting expected levels of ability within set timelines.
  • Complete annual Schneider instructor re-certification process and continually meet DOT requirements.
  • Utilize and assign electronic computer-based training to driver students.
  • Other duties and responsibilities may be assigned, and the scope of the job may change based on business demands, which could include hauling freight as needed.
  • Exhibit professional behavior that aligns with Schneider values and standards.
Pay and bonus potential
  • Competitive starting annual salary.
  • Bi-monthly paychecks.
  • Annual profit-sharing bonuses available.
  • Paid vacation time available immediately after starting.

*Based on CDL driver experience, performance and location

Skills qualifications
  • Previous instructor/training experience preferred.
  • Ability to coach and mentor effectively in a team environment.
  • Can demonstrate a positive, professional attitude and the ability and willingness to accept change.
  • Ability to learn, demonstrate and train Schneider’s company policies and procedures.
  • Experience with Word, Excel and other computer-based systems is a plus.
Driver qualifications
  • Valid Class A Commercial Driver’s License (CDL).
  • DOT physical card.
  • Minimum 12 months of Class A driving experience.
  • Follow and have a knowledge of company policies.
  • Ability to coach and mentor effectively.
  • Live within 50 miles of Charlotte, NC.

Still need more experience or have questions about qualifications? Call us at 800-447-7433, and we can talk you through everything.

Additional benefits
  • Medical, dental and vision insurance.
  • 401(k) savings plan with company match.
  • Tuition reimbursement.
More reasons to choose Schneider
  • Resilient, values-based culture that drives safety first and always, integrity in every action, respect for all and excellence in all we do.
  • Individual development opportunities through company-paid training, active leadership involvement and more than 170 online personal development courses.
Hear more about this role from our Driver Instructors

Schneider uses E-Verify to confirm the employment eligibility of all newly hired associates. To learn more about E-Verify, including your rights and responsibilities, please visit www.dhs.gov/E-Verify.


Job Company Driver
Schedule FULLTIME
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