CDL Training in South Bend, Indiana

Truck driving is one of the fastest-growing industries in the country, and carriers are looking for qualified and confident drivers all over the nation. With 50 years of experience, TDI offers leading CDL training programs that give our drivers that edge that gets them behind the wheel in just 3 weeks.
A TDI instructor sits in the cab of a parked semi truck with the TDI logo on the door, looking down. Another instructor in the foreground laughs.

Start Your Career Today at One of the Most Respected Truck Driving Schools in Indiana

Truck Driver Institute’s South Bend truck driving school is well-known as one of the most respected truck driving schools in Indiana. Serving the area for over 45 years, the 18+ acre facility is a spacious, modern training center. South Bend is a prime transportation spot, as the Midwest is a national transportation hub.

Why Choose TDI South Bend?

  • Comprehensive 3-week program with Class A CDL license upon completion
  • Over 80% job placement rate with top carriers nationwide
  • On-site CDL testing for both permits and final certification
  • No carrier contracts—freedom to choose your employer
  • Hands-on training with real trucks—no simulators
  • Industry expert instructors who tailor classes to each student’s learning needs
  • Pre-screening of all students to ensure job placement after graduation
TDI student looks at a road atlas in the classroom.

TDI vs. Vocational School

TDI Vocational School
ELDT training
Ongoing job placement
Comprehensive 3-week program
Hands-on training (no simulators)
On-site training and testing
Established since 1973
80% job placement with thecarrier of your choice
Freedom to choose your employer
Contract requirements with carriers X
Lower pay right out of graduation X
Simulator training X

Comprehensive Training in South Bend

While training at the South Bend facility, you will learn both the technical and operational aspects of driving a semi-truck. Our courses are a mixture of classroom and behind-the-wheel training to ensure you leave with the skills, knowledge and experience that major transportation companies demand.

The technical information you’ll learn includes:

  • Maintaining driver logs
  • Reading maps and trip planning
  • Conducting pre-trip safety inspections

The hands-on portion puts you behind the wheel of a full-sized 18-wheeler where you’ll master:

  • Shifting techniques
  • Turning maneuvers
  • Safely backing up the vehicle

Once you’ve mastered handling the tractor-trailer, you’ll be tested on-site for your Indiana Class A CDL!

Our CDL Training School in Indiana Offers Class A Training

Class A CDL

The most advanced CDL available, allowing you to drive trucks capable of towing trailers with a GVWR of 10,000+ pounds. This includes standard 18-wheelers and clears you to drive all vehicles that Class B and C drivers can operate. Essential for interstate driving.

Class B CDL

Permits driving vehicles carrying less than 10,000 pounds GVWR with a single-axle trailer, including buses, box trucks, delivery trucks, dump trucks, and passenger vans. Restricted to the state of issue, making it ideal for regional driving careers.

Class C CDL

Permits you to drive vehicles with GVWRs of less than 26,001 pounds, vehicles towing other vehicles that weigh less than 10,000 pounds, and vehicles that transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver.

Was a great experience!! Thank you to the instructors John, Brad and Randy! Their knowledge made it easy and definitely worth it. Ready to start a new chapter in my life, thanks to them.

Xander Van Niekerk ,
TDI Graduate

Convenient Location

Our campus is conveniently located right off of IN-23, making it easy to commute for your daily CDL training classes.

Our South Bend location is within range for many people living in Elkhart, IN; Gary, IN; Bristol, IN; Merrillville, IN; Mishawaka, IN; Valparaiso, IN; Goshen, IN; and even southern Michigan areas like Kalamazoo, MI; Lansing, MI; Grand Rapids, MI; and across the Midwest. If you don’t live in the South Bend area, we also offer lodging for our out-of-town students.

Location Details

24645 IN-23
South Bend, IN 46614