Tennessee CDL Trucking Schools 2026

📅 Updated July 2026 📌 Source: TCAT, TDOSHS ⏱ 7 min read

Tennessee's TCAT public system gives applicants a genuine lower-cost path into trucking, with direct pipelines into major employers like FedEx and Covenant.

In This Guide

The TCAT System

Tennessee Colleges of Applied Technology (TCAT) is a statewide vocational system founded in 1966, part of the Tennessee Board of Regents. 14 TCAT locations offer truck driving programs, combining classroom instruction with hands-on coupling and backing practice rather than knowledge-test preparation alone.

LocationNotable Detail
TCAT MemphisDirect pipeline to FedEx recruitment
TCAT KnoxvilleFAFSA school code 004025
TCAT Shelbyville224 Eagle Blvd, Shelbyville TN 37160
TCAT Upper CumberlandContact: Anthony Luttrell, 931-267-6693
TCAT CovingtonNear Memphis
TCAT NashvilleServes the Nashville metro area

Funding Options

Tennessee Promise and Tennessee Reconnect, state-specific funding programs, can be used at TCAT locations, giving Tennessee residents a genuine path to reduced or free tuition for truck driving training.

Private Schools

Tennessee also has established private CDL training options, including Volunteer Truck Driving School (Nashville area), Memphis Driver Training School, and Tennessee Truck Driving School (Knoxville/Chattanooga). Private schools generally range $3,000-$7,500 in tuition.

Company-Sponsored Pipelines

FedEx, Werner, Covenant, and Prime all recruit directly from TCAT programs, particularly in Memphis, where FedEx's status as a global logistics hub creates a genuine, direct pipeline from training straight into employment.

Study While You Choose a School

The knowledge tests are the same no matter which program you choose. Practice free now.

Start Tennessee CDL Practice Tests Cost Breakdown

Frequently Asked Questions

What is TCAT?
A statewide vocational system with 14 locations offering truck driving programs.
Can I use financial aid for TCAT?
Yes — Tennessee Promise and Tennessee Reconnect are usable at TCAT.
Which companies recruit from TCAT?
FedEx, Werner, Covenant, and Prime, especially in Memphis.
What are private school examples?
Volunteer Truck Driving School, Memphis Driver Training School, Tennessee Truck Driving School.
How do I contact TCAT Upper Cumberland?
Anthony Luttrell, 931-267-6693.

Sources: TCAT; TDOSHS. Last verified July 2026.