🚛 Can You Write Off CDL School? Here’s What Truckers Need to Know About Education Tax Credits
How Truck Drivers Can Use Education Tax Credits
🎓 If you recently paid out of pocket for CDL school, you’re probably wondering: Can I write that off on my taxes? Or maybe you’re still thinking about training and want to know what kind of break Uncle Sam might give you.
Here’s the straight truth — and how you might qualify for education tax credits like the Lifetime Learning Credit (LLC) or American Opportunity Credit.
📌 Quick Answer
Yes — but it depends on how your training was paid for, your income, and whether you’re listed as a dependent on someone else’s return.
So you want to make sure you understand the rules, not just go off what you heard at the truck stop.
🧾 What Is the Lifetime Learning Credit?
The Lifetime Learning Credit gives up to $2,000 per tax return for qualified education expenses — and CDL school may count if:
- ✅ The school is an eligible institution (i.e. accredited and recognized by the U.S. Department of Education)
- ✅ You paid out of pocket (not covered by a grant or employer)
- ✅ You are not being claimed as a dependent
- ✅ Your income falls within IRS limits (under $90,000 single / $180,000 married filing jointly)
📖 See IRS Lifetime Learning Credit rules
🚛 Does CDL Training Count?
If your truck driving school is part of an accredited vocational program or technical college, you’re likely eligible — even if it’s a short-term course.
Some company-paid training or private academies won’t qualify — so the key is whether the school can issue a 1098‑T tuition statement.
👉 Pro tip: Ask your school if they’re eligible and if they issue 1098‑T forms. That’s the official form the IRS wants to see.
💼 Can Owner‑Operators Deduct It?
If you’re already in business as an owner-operator, you may not use the Lifetime Learning Credit — but you might be able to deduct training as a business expense.
That’s a whole different route.
- 🎯 Education credits are for personal taxes
- 💼 Business deductions apply to your self-employment return
Always ask your tax professional to help you decide the smarter option for your situation.
🧮 What About Other Credits?
You might also qualify for:
- 🎓 American Opportunity Credit – For first four years of post-secondary education
- 📉 Tuition and Fees Deduction (expired, but may come back)
- 🏛️ State-specific credits or grants
📚 TurboTax: Which Education Credits Are You Eligible For?
📲 Final Word
If you’re thinking about getting your CDL or you’ve already paid for training recently, don’t leave money on the table. There might be a federal credit with your name on it.
Before you file, be sure to ask your tax professional if your school is eligible and whether you qualify for the credit. This is especially important if your training cost you more than $2,000 — because that’s the cap for the Lifetime Learning Credit.
And if you’re planning ahead for a family member, 529 Plans can also be used for CDL school under newer rules. See how it works here.
