Saia Pays for Your CDL Training and Hires You After
Saia Motor Freight is a trucking company that offers paid commercial driver's license (CDL) training to people with no prior trucking experience, then hires graduates as company drivers. You attend their training program at no cost to you — Saia covers tuition — and in return you commit to working for them for a set period, typically 12 to 24 months depending on the program. If you leave before that contract ends, you may owe back a portion of the training cost.
The company operates regional and long-haul freight routes across the United States. Most entry-level positions are over-the-road (OTR) roles, meaning you spend several weeks at a time away from home. Some drivers move into dedicated or regional routes after proving themselves, which offer more predictable schedules and home time.
Saia's training program runs at their own facilities, not through a third-party truck driving school. This means the curriculum and instructors are controlled by the company, and your training is directly tied to the job you will perform. The program typically lasts four to six weeks and covers both classroom instruction and behind-the-wheel training.
Key Takeaways
- Saia covers the full cost of CDL training, but you sign a contract agreeing to work for them for 12 to 24 months or repay a portion of training costs.
- Most entry-level positions are over-the-road roles requiring weeks away from home, though some drivers transition to regional or dedicated routes later.
- You must pass a background check, medical examination, and drug test before starting training, and you need a valid state ID and Social Security card.
- Starting pay varies by route type and experience, and you earn money during training through a per-diem or hourly rate rather than working unpaid.
- The training program takes four to six weeks and includes both classroom and hands-on driving instruction at Saia's own facilities.
What Saia Requires Before You Start Training
You must be at least 21 years old to drive commercial trucks in most states, and Saia enforces this requirement. You will need a valid state driver's license (not a CDL yet — Saia trains you to get it), a Social Security card, and proof of citizenship or legal work authorization. Bring original documents or certified copies; Saia will not accept photocopies for identity verification.
A clean background check is mandatory. Saia reviews criminal history, and serious felonies or certain driving violations can disqualify you. You will also undergo a Department of Transportation (DOT) medical examination performed by a certified medical examiner. This exam checks your vision, hearing, blood pressure, and overall fitness to operate a commercial vehicle. If you have a medical condition like diabetes or sleep apnea, you may still pass, but you will need documentation and possibly a specialist's clearance.
You must pass a drug test before training begins. Saia uses a standard five-panel test covering marijuana, cocaine, amphetamines, opioids, and phencyclidine (PCP). If you test positive, you will not be admitted to the program. After you are hired, Saia conducts random drug tests throughout your employment.
How the Training Program Works and What It Covers
Saia's training is structured in phases. The first phase is classroom-based and covers federal motor carrier safety regulations, vehicle inspection procedures, cargo handling, and hours-of-service rules. You learn the rules of the road specific to commercial trucking, which differ significantly from passenger vehicle driving. This phase typically lasts one to two weeks.
The second phase is behind-the-wheel training with a professional instructor. You start in a controlled environment — often an empty lot or low-traffic area — learning basic vehicle control, backing, and turning. As you progress, you move to public roads and highways under supervision. This phase lasts two to four weeks depending on your progress and the program structure. You are not driving solo; an instructor is always present.
During training, you are paid a per-diem or hourly rate. The exact amount varies, but you are not working unpaid. Some programs provide housing during the training period, while others require you to arrange your own. Ask Saia directly about housing provisions when you inquire about the program.
At the end of training, Saia prepares you to take the CDL exam administered by your state's Department of Motor Vehicles. The exam has three parts: a written knowledge test, a pre-trip vehicle inspection test, and a behind-the-wheel driving test. Saia's training covers all three components. If you do not pass on your first attempt, Saia typically allows you to retake the test, though policies vary.
Pay, Routes, and What Happens After Training
Entry-level pay at Saia depends on the route type and your experience. Over-the-road drivers typically earn between $0.40 and $0.55 per mile, though this varies by freight type, fuel surcharges, and bonuses. Regional drivers earn more per mile but drive fewer total miles per week. Dedicated routes — where you run the same lanes repeatedly — often pay slightly less per mile but offer more predictable schedules and home time.
Your first assignment is usually an over-the-road position paired with an experienced driver for a period called "team driving" or "riding with a trainer." During this phase, you earn a reduced rate (often 50 to 70 percent of the standard rate) while you learn company procedures and real-world driving. This phase typically lasts two to four weeks. After that, you move to solo driving and earn the full rate for your route type.
Saia offers benefits including health insurance, a 401(k) retirement plan, and paid time off after you complete your contract. The specifics depend on your employment status and tenure. Some drivers also receive bonuses for safety records, fuel efficiency, or staying with the company past their initial contract.
The Contract and What Happens If You Leave Early
When you sign on with Saia, you commit to a contract period — typically 12 months for some programs and 24 months for others. The contract specifies the repayment terms if you leave before the end date. Most contracts require you to repay a portion of the training cost on a sliding scale: if you leave after three months, you might owe 75 percent of training costs; after six months, 50 percent; after 12 months, 25 percent or nothing, depending on the program.
The training cost that you would repay typically ranges from $3,000 to $8,000, though the exact figure depends on the program and current company policy. Ask Saia for the specific repayment schedule before you enroll. Some drivers negotiate with the company if they need to leave for a legitimate reason — a family emergency, for example — and Saia may waive or reduce the repayment.
If you complete your contract, you have no repayment obligation. After that, you can stay with Saia, move to another trucking company, or leave the industry. Many drivers use Saia as a stepping stone to build experience and then move to companies with better pay, home time, or route preferences.
How to Move Forward With Saia
Saia recruits through their website (saia.com) and through third-party recruiting agencies. You can also call their recruiting line directly — the number is listed on their careers page. Have your Social Security number, driver's license, and work history ready when you call or explore online.
The process typically starts with a phone screening where a recruiter asks about your background, driving history, and why you want to drive for Saia. If you pass that, you will be invited to an in-person orientation or interview at a Saia terminal or recruiting office. Bring your original documents (ID, Social Security card, proof of work authorization) and be prepared to discuss any gaps in employment or driving violations.
After the interview, you will undergo the background check, drug test, and medical examination. These can take one to three weeks. Once you clear all checks, you will be scheduled for the training program. The entire process from first contact to starting training typically takes four to eight weeks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need any driving experience before explore to Saia?
No. Saia hires people with no commercial driving experience. You must have a valid state driver's license and a clean driving record, but you do not need prior trucking or commercial driving experience. Saia's training program is designed for people starting from scratch.
What if I fail the CDL exam after training?
Saia typically allows you to retake the exam at no additional cost. If you fail multiple times, the company may extend your training period or, in rare cases, terminate your employment. Ask about the specific retake policy during your orientation.
Can I choose a regional or dedicated route instead of over-the-road?
Most entry-level positions are over-the-road because that is where Saia has the most freight. After you complete your initial contract or gain experience, you may be able to bid for regional or dedicated routes, but this is not may provide. Ask your recruiter about the timeline and process for transitioning to other route types.
What happens if I get injured during training?
Saia carries workers' compensation insurance. If you are injured during training or work, you are covered. Report any injury when ready to your instructor or supervisor and seek medical attention. Workers' compensation will cover medical costs and lost wages during recovery, though the exact benefits depend on your state's laws.
Is the housing provided during training?
Housing provisions vary by Saia location and program. Some facilities provide dormitory-style housing; others do not. Ask your recruiter about housing before you enroll so you can plan accordingly and understand any costs you may incur.