Enrolling in truck driving school prepares you for the rigorous CDL, or commercial driver’s license, exam. This license allows you to operate a variety of commercial vehicles for an exciting career behind the wheel. Here, get answers to frequently-asked questions about truck driving school before researching classes in your area.

Questions About Truck Driving School Answered

What programs do schools offer?

Programs can vary by school; however, most offer Class A and B CDL programs, as well as road test prep programs and refresher courses. Truckers with Class A commercial driver’s licenses can operate vehicles with a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of 26,001 pounds or more hauling trailers weighing over 10,000 pounds. Class B certification means drivers can operate commercial vehicles of 26,001 or more pounds with trailers that do not exceed 10,000 pounds. Many Class A drivers also have Class B certifications.

How Long Does School Last?

Truck driving school students typically undergo training for three to seven weeks before taking the CDL exam. The three-part skills test covers trucking career elements such as traffic law knowledge and road sign recognition, trailer coupling and decoupling, large load handling, and vehicle maneuverability and safety. It also covers cargo distribution, pre- and post-trip inspections, and bill of lading procedures. Drivers cannot operate heavy-duty vehicles without their CDLs.

Can I get my CDL at driving school?

While truck driving schools offer intensive programs for passing CDL tests, they don’t issue licenses to their students. Drivers must take CDL exams at their one of their state’s DMV offices. New York drivers, for example, use the state’s Road Test Scheduling System to schedule skills tests.

Is enrollment really that important?

Truck driving schools provide the detail-oriented, hands-on training necessary for quick advancement and certification. Drivers get to work at their own pace via flexible scheduling and learn everything they need to know to stay safe on the road since operating semis and other heavy-duty vehicles is dangerous without the proper training. They also increase their chances of passing the CDL test the first time instead of paying to retake it. 

If a career on the road sounds right for you, contact Professional Driver Institute today. The truck driving school has provided the Greater Rochester, NY, area with hands-on training as well as job placement services since 1993. Call (888) 734-4235 to get started or visit the school online to learn more about their one-month fast track program.