DRIVING ACADEMY Franchise FDD, Profits & Costs (2025)
Driving Academy began operations in 2021 and stands out as the first franchise opportunity dedicated to truck driving education in the U.S. Based in Linden, New Jersey, the brand’s parent company, Driving Academy Franchising, Inc., started building its exclusive training system and franchise model in 2022.
The franchise provides comprehensive CDL training programs, including Class A, Class B, and Class B+P (bus) courses. Students benefit from flexible scheduling, simulator-assisted learning, and lifetime job placement support, ensuring they are well-prepared for a career in commercial driving.
Driving Academy differentiates itself through its guaranteed training options, affordable payment plans starting at just $500 down, and in-house third-party CDL testing, creating a more accessible and efficient path to licensing.
The brand’s nationwide expansion began in 2021, fueled by the rising demand for qualified drivers and new industry standards introduced by the FMCSA’s Entry-Level Driver Training rule, which took effect in February 2022.
Initial Investment
How much does it cost to start a DRIVING ACADEMY franchise? It costs on average between $224,000 – $557,000 to start a DRIVING ACADEMY franchised center.
This includes costs for facility setup, training equipment, vehicles, and initial operating expenses. The total investment varies based on several factors, such as the size of the training center, geographic location, and whether the franchisee leases or purchases the property.
| Type of Expenditure | Amount |
|---|---|
| Initial Franchise Fee | $50,000 |
| Technology | $9,700 – $15,000 |
| Equipment, Furniture and Fixtures | $65,000 – $189,000 |
| Real Estate | $14,950 – $27,700 |
| Leasehold Improvements | $1,500 – $21,500 |
| Utilities | $200 – $500 |
| Signage | $3,500 – $6,000 |
| Start Up Inventory | $4,000 – $7,500 |
| Grand Opening Marketing | $3,000 – $5,000 |
| Vehicles | $27,500 – $135,000 |
| Vehicle Graphics | $4,500 – $10,800 |
| Staffing | $12,000 – $30,800 |
| Insurance | $850 – $2,000 |
| Travel, Lodging and Meals for Initial Training Program | $1,950 – $4,000 |
| Business Licenses, Permits, Certifications and Other Professional Fees | $550 – $2,500 |
| Additional Funds (3 months) | $25,000 – $50,000 |
| Total | $224,200 – $557,300 |
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many DRIVING ACADEMY locations are there?
As of the latest data, Driving Academy operates a total of six locations. This includes four franchised units and two company-owned locations.
What is the total investment required to open a DRIVING ACADEMY franchise?
The total investment required to open a DRIVING ACADEMY franchise ranges from $224,000 to $557,000.
What are the ongoing fees for a DRIVING ACADEMY franchise?
The ongoing fees for a Driving Academy franchise include a royalty fee of 8% of gross revenues, which is paid to the franchisor on a regular basis. In addition, franchisees must contribute 2% of gross revenues to a marketing and advertising fund.
Who owns DRIVING ACADEMY?
Driving Academy franchise is owned by Driving Academy Franchising, Inc. The company oversees the development and expansion of the Driving Academy brand, which specializes in driver education and commercial driver’s license (CDL) training.
Disclaimer
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