Commercial Driver Education

Commercial driver education programs are designed to help you develop the skills necessary to obtain a CDL and secure employment in the trucking industry. Upon successful completion of a program, you'll have the skills and knowledge to pass the Missouri Class A, B, or C CDL testing, including the written exams, vehicle inspection, basic skills and road test.

What a Typical Program Includes

• Classroom instruction

• Behind-the-wheel driving

• Lab, class or observation time

• Simulations designed exclusively for trucks

• Driving instruction

• Skid pan training

• Back road, city, two- and four-lane highway driving

• Fleet of different makes and types of tractors and trailers training

Admission Requirements

To attend CDL training you must:

• Successfully complete pre-admission testing

• Be at least 18 years old

• Hold a valid drivers license

• Have a good driving record

• Pass the DOT physical

• Pass a drug and alcohol exam

Prerequisites

You may be required to attend an orientation prior to class start date to familiarize yourself with policies, the CDL, and drug testing. Some schools require full payment of tuition or a signed contract for funding before classes begin. Before the fifth day of class, most schools require you obtain your instructional permit.

Certifications

Be sure that the school or program you choose issues diplomas or certificates of completion. If you are seeking training on your own (rather than through your employer), this certificate can help you in your job search, by serving as proof that you completed the course successfully.

With certain schools, upon satisfactory program completion, you will be certified in the following:

• Basic Rescuer/CPR (American Red Cross)

• Multimedia First Aid (American Red Cross)

• Defensive Driving (National Safety Council)

• Forklift Safety (National Safety Council)

You'll also take the commercial driver's license (CDL) test and receive your CDL skills certificate. Remember to take the certificate to the DOR to get your Missouri CDL. If you are between 18 and 20 years of age you'll have a restricted CDL, allowing you to drive only within Missouri.