Kern County · Tehachapi, CA

CDL training near Tehachapi, California.

Tehachapi drivers are just 40 miles from Bakersfield — and just one short program away from a $70,000+ career. We recommend Kern Trucking School, the leading CDL school serving Tehachapi and all of Kern County.
Location
40 miles east of Bakersfield over Tehachapi Pass
Drive to campus
~45 min
Population
~14,000
Top industries
4 sectors

Why Tehachapi drivers choose trucking.

Tehachapi drivers move loads across one of California's most important freight passes. Class A work includes wind-farm logistics, aggregate haul, and regional runs through the Highway 58 corridor.

Industries hiring CDL drivers near Tehachapi

  • Wind energy logistics
  • Cement & aggregate
  • Cross-mountain freight
  • Regional delivery

Typical pay for Tehachapi-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

Next cohort filling fast

Start your CDL journey this month.

Classes start regularly — talk to an admissions advisor today.

Enroll at Kern Trucking School