Kern County · Taft, CA
CDL training near Taft, California.
Why Taft drivers choose trucking.
Taft is the center of Kern County's western oil patch. CDL drivers with H, N, or X endorsements earn some of the highest local pay in the region hauling crude, water, and frac sand.
Industries hiring CDL drivers near Taft
- Oil & gas hauling
- Frac sand & water transport
- Heavy equipment
- Pipeline support
Typical pay for Taft-area drivers
- Entry-level local Class A$55K–$70K*
- Regional / dedicated$70K–$90K
- Oilfield / hazmat$85K–$110K+
Pay ranges shown are typical Kern County, CA compensation based on industry reporting and local employer postings — not a guarantee of employment or earnings. Actual pay depends on experience, endorsements, hours, employer, route, and market conditions. National median for heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers is $54,320/year (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, OEWS).
Kern County's Trusted Choice
We recommend Kern Trucking School
For drivers in Bakersfield and across Kern County, Kern Trucking School is the straight-line path from where you are today to a steady, high-paying career behind the wheel.
- ELDT-compliant theory + behind-the-wheel training
- Class A program in as little as 4 weeks
- DMV-approved curriculum based right here in Bakersfield
- Job-placement assistance with Kern County carriers
- Financing, WIOA, and VA benefit options available
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Start your CDL journey this month.
Classes start regularly — talk to an admissions advisor today.