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Commercial driving classes prepare you for a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL), combining practical and classroom training. They pave the way for a stable career in the trucking industry. This article covers the types of classes, their content, and the benefits they offer.
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Key Takeaways
- These classes provide quick, hands-on training for obtaining a Class A CDL, with graduates enjoying high job demand, competitive salaries, and various career opportunities.
- There are different types of CDL training programs such as Entry Level Driver Training (ELDT), Class A CDL training for heavy trucks, and Class B CDL training for smaller commercial vehicles, each catering to specific career goals.
- Financial assistance options like WIOA grants, tribal council support, and Voc Rehab programs make CDL training accessible, while job placement services from driving schools help graduates secure employment promptly.
Fast-Track Your Career:
Kickstart your career with commercial driving classes that prepare you for a Class A Commercial Driver’s License (CDL), welcoming you to the realm of professional truck driving. The industry is in high demand for truck drivers, making it easier to find employment after completing your CDL training. These programs offer quick training, often completed within a few weeks, providing hands-on experience with seasoned instructors. Imagine earning up to $1,400 per week as a professional truck driver, enjoying the autonomy and satisfaction that comes with this vital role.
Completing these classes paves the way to not only competitive salaries but also additional benefits that enrich your career. The trucking industry offers endless opportunities, from various career paths in trucking to business ownership or logistics. With job placement assistance from many commercial driving schools, you can start your career immediately upon graduation. An exciting career in trucking, filled with opportunities and rewards, awaits those who are ready to take the wheel.
Types of Commercial Driving Classes Available
Embarking on the journey of commercial driving starts with selecting an appropriate training program. CDL training programs encompass online modules, classroom sessions, and behind-the-wheel training, preparing students for both written and practical portions of the state CDL exam. The curriculum often aligns with the Professional Truck Driver Institute (PTDI) standards to ensure comprehensive education, ultimately helping students obtain their CDL license.
A variety of these driving classes exist, each customized to cater to diverse needs and career trajectories. From Entry Level Driver Training (ELDT) to Class A and Class B CDL training, these programs cover the spectrum of skills required for various trucking roles. Let’s delve into the specifics of each type of training to help you choose the best fit for your aspirations.
Entry Level Driver Training (ELDT)
Entry Level Driver Training (ELDT) is a mandatory program for all new drivers applying for a CDL. It includes both classroom instruction and behind-the-wheel training, ensuring that students receive a well-rounded education. The ELDT curriculum covers essential topics such as basic operation, safe driving practices, and hours of service regulations, all provided by a training provider certified by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).
To keep local DMVs updated on your progress, training providers are required to submit ELDT completion records to the FMCSA’s Training Provider Registry (TPR). Adequate behind-the-wheel training is crucial for building practical skills and confidence, making ELDT a fundamental step for any aspiring truck driver.
Class A CDL Training
For those aspiring to operate the heaviest types of commercial motor vehicles like tractor-trailers and semi-trucks with a gross combination weight rating (GCWR) exceeding 26,001 pounds, Class A CDL training is indispensable for commercial truck driving. The training program includes:
- Classroom instruction
- Hands-on wheel training with large trucks
- Safe driving techniques
- Vehicle inspection procedures
- Trucking industry regulations
Typically, Class A CDL training involves 160 hours of instruction, which can be completed in about 3 to 4 weeks. This comprehensive training prepares you for the CDL exam and equips you with the skills necessary to handle large trucks safely and efficiently, paving the way for a successful career in trucking.
Class B CDL Training
For individuals targeting to drive smaller commercial vehicles or buses, Class B CDL training is specifically designed. This training allows drivers to operate single vehicles with a GVWR of 26,001 pounds or more, including straight trucks and large buses. The curriculum combines classroom instruction with practical behind-the-wheel training, focusing on basic vehicle control skills such as turning, backing up, and parking.
The training culminates in a road test, ensuring that students are well-prepared to handle their vehicles safely and confidently. Whether you’re looking to drive a city bus or a delivery truck, Class B CDL training provides the knowledge and skills needed for these roles.
Benefits of Obtaining a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL)
Securing a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) comes with a plethora of benefits, including:
- Job security: The trucking industry remains stable and essential, providing workforce stability for CDL holders.
- Wide range of job opportunities: With a CDL, you have access to a wide range of job opportunities, including positions at transportation companies or the option to become an owner-operator.
- Quick employment: The demand for CDL holders ensures that you can find employment quickly and maintain job security.
In addition to job security, professional truck drivers with CDL holders enjoy:
- Competitive salaries and benefits
- Experienced truck drivers can earn $60,000 or more per year, with first-year Class-A drivers often earning over $40,000
- Many employers offer health, dental, and vision insurance along with retirement plans, contributing to a rewarding career
- Obtaining a CDL allows for greater independence and flexibility in choosing local, regional, or national trucking jobs
Financial Assistance for Commercial Driving Classes
Various grants and financial assistance programs make pursuing a career in commercial driving financially viable. The Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) provides grants for CDL training to eligible applicants, particularly those laid off or receiving unemployment or SNAP benefits. State and local retraining funds, such as the Kentucky Farmworkers grant and Missouri’s SkillUp program, also offer financial support for CDL training.
Additionally, Native American students may access CDL training grants through their tribal council or the Bureau of Indian Affairs. Vocational Rehabilitation (Voc Rehab) programs, both state and private, can fund CDL training for individuals in rehabilitation or injured workers. These financial aid options ensure that students from diverse backgrounds can pursue CDL training and advance their careers without financial barriers.
Job Placement Assistance for Program Graduates
To aid graduates in securing employment in the trucking industry, commercial driving schools frequently offer job placement assistance. For instance, students at The CDL School are eligible for conditional job offers before completing their CDL certification, contingent on program completion. The school also offers long-term employment support for graduates, keeping alumni informed about new job opportunities and referral programs.
Additionally, The CDL School’s partnership with TransForce offers the following benefits for students:
- Use of the TF1 Mobile App to apply for entry-level jobs
- Comprehensive job placement support
- Access to tools and resources needed to start new careers successfully
Why Choose a School with Automatic Transmission Trucks
Opting for a commercial driving school that employs automatic transmission trucks can yield significant advantages for new students. Some of these advantages include:
- Reducing the learning curve as students don’t need to master shifting gears
- Allowing students to focus on other essential driving skills
- Simplifying the driving process and helping new drivers build confidence more quickly
Moreover, an automatic transmission truck offers several benefits, including:
- Reducing driver fatigue
- Improving fuel economy by handling shifting more efficiently than some drivers
- Making the transition into the trucking industry smoother and more relevant for future job placements, as automatic transmissions are becoming increasingly common in modern fleets.
Tips for Success
Success hinges on a blend of dedication, safety consciousness, and honesty. One crucial tip is to always say ‘NO’ to unsafe driving conditions and back it up with valid reasons. This practice ensures your safety and that of others on the road.
Owning up to your mistakes and being truthful is essential in this profession. Honesty helps avoid severe consequences and builds trust with your instructors and future employers. By following these tips, you can excel in your CDL training and become a safe, responsible professional truck driver.
The Role of Driver Trainers in Commercial Driving Education
Playing a pivotal role in commercial driving education, a driver trainer ensures students cultivate the requisite skills and mindset for safe driving. A low trainer-to-student ratio allows for personalized instruction and adequate attention during training. Driver trainers provide defensive driving instruction, significantly reducing the likelihood of accidents.
On-the-road training with experienced driver trainers helps identify and correct bad driving habits, ensuring that new drivers are well-prepared to handle various road conditions. In addition to classroom training, listening to your trainer, asking questions, and staying on their good side can provide invaluable information and guidance throughout your over the road training journey.
Military Veterans: Transitioning to a Career in Trucking
Numerous support programs available make it easier for military veterans to transition into a career in trucking, opening a world of excellent opportunities. Veterans can use the Post 9/11 GI Bill® to cover CDL training tuition and potentially receive additional benefits during training. Programs like the Veterans Rapid Retraining Assistance Program (VRRAP) offer CDL training funding to veterans impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Swift Transportation provides scholarships and financial support for housing to veterans training to become truck drivers, along with a paid truck driving school specifically for veterans. The CDL School’s Troops Into Transportation program assists veterans and active duty personnel in finding great employment opportunities in the transportation industry, particularly in the trucking sector.
Health and Lifestyle Tips for Professional Truck Drivers
For new truck drivers spending long hours on the road, it is crucial to sustain a healthy lifestyle. Prioritizing eating every two to three hours helps keep metabolism active and regulate blood sugar levels. Planning meals ahead of time and keeping cabs stocked with healthier snack choices like fresh fruits, vegetables, and protein bars can make a significant difference.
Additionally, here are some tips to help maintain energy levels and ensure you are well-rested for safe driving:
- Incorporate more fruits and vegetables at every meal
- Prioritize protein to avoid energy dips and reduce hunger and cravings
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water
- Manage your sleep to ensure you are well-rested
Choosing the Right Commercial Driving School
Selecting the appropriate commercial driving school is a decisive step on your path to becoming a professional truck driver. Accreditation ensures that the program meets industry standards and has undergone rigorous evaluation. A school’s reputation, evidenced by reviews and testimonials, can indicate the quality of training provided.
Consider the following factors when choosing a school for your training:
- Program length: Some schools offer accelerated courses, while others provide comprehensive training over a longer period.
- Instructor qualifications: Look for instructors with industry experience and relevant certifications, as this will significantly impact the quality of your training.
- Location: Choosing a conveniently located school can minimize travel time and expenses, making your training experience more manageable.
Summary on Professional truck driving
In summary, embarking on a career in commercial driving offers a wealth of opportunities and rewards. From the various types of CDL training programs to the numerous benefits of obtaining a CDL, the path to becoming a professional truck driver is filled with promise. Financial assistance and job placement support make this career accessible to many individuals, including military veterans.
Choosing the right school, leveraging the expertise of driver trainers, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle are all crucial steps in your journey. As you prepare to hit the road, remember that the trucking industry is not just a job but a fulfilling career that offers stability, independence, and great financial rewards. Start your engines and embrace the road ahead with confidence and enthusiasm.
