Course Duration

Three (3) weeks or 120+ hours approximately. Typically, this class is conducted outside even when raining or colder weather. If inclement weather is a problem, we could potentially train inside the dome.

Target Audience

Anyone 18 years old or older who desires to obtain a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL). Note: must be 21 or older for Interstate (across state lines) Truck Operation.

Prerequisites

Must have in possession prior to the start of class:

  • Commercial Driver’s Permit (CDP) from the DMV
    • Including General Knowledge, Air Brakes and Combination vehicle at a minimum
    • Medical Examination and Medical Card

Course Overview

Course meets FMCSA’s Entry-Level Driver Training Requirements for obtaining a CDL using Construction Trucks. The course is highly interactive and hands-on consisting of both self-paced on-line courses, classroom, and actual driving/operating construction trucks. Truck operation is conducted in a closed course (on private property) and public roadways with authorized CDL instructors. At the conclusion of the course, students may be tested by a certified DMV third party examiner to qualify for a CDL*.

*Attendance in class does not guarantee passing the final DMV Road Test. Every effort is made to provide students with practice, coaching, and support. However, passing the DMV Road Test takes determination, focus, studying, and skills developed through practice.

Modules Covered

  • Introduction
  • Control Systems/Dashboard
  • Vehicle Inspections
  • Basic Truck Controls
  • Shifting/Transmissions
  • Backing & Docking
  • Coupling/Uncoupling Trailers
  • Visual Search
  • Communication
  • Distracted Driving
  • Speed Management
  • Space Management
  • Night Operation
  • Extreme Driving Conditions
  • Hazard Perception
  • Skid Control/Recovery, Jackknifing & other Emergencies
  • Railroad-Highway Grade Crossing
  • Identification & Diagnosis of Malfunctions
  • Roadside Inspections
  • Maintenance
  • Handling & Documenting Cargo
  • Environmental Compliance Issues
  • Hours of Service – Log Books
  • Fatigue & Wellness Awareness
  • Post-Crash Procedures
  • External Communications
  • Whistleblower/Coercion
  • Trip Planning
  • Drugs/Alcohol
  • Medical Requirements

Range Training

  • Vehicle Inspections
  • Straight Backing
  • Offset Backing
  • 90 Degree Backing
  • Parallel Backing
  • Parking
  • Coupling/Uncoupling

Public Road Driving/Training

  • Country Road Driving
  • Highway Driving
  • Interstate Driving
  • City Driving
  • Left/Right Turns
  • Left/Right Corners
  • Railroad/Highway Grade Crossings
  • Stop Lights/Signs
  • Inclines/declines

CDL Examination/Road Test

  • Truck is provided for the test
  • Student will be tested at the end of the course assuming he/she is ready for the test
  • A “one-time” test fee is included with the course