Truck Driver – CDL A Certificate

This initial course in a 3-part series provides instructional classroom training to prepare students for the Maryland Class A Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Learner’s Permit, including various endorsements. Topics include basic CDL theory, hazardous materials, Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), pre-trip inspections (interior and exterior), alcohol awareness, hours of service, defensive driving techniques, logbooks, trip planning and map reading. Successful completers will be equipped with the necessary knowledge to pass the pre-trip portion of MVA Class A Commercial Driver’s License examination.

This second course in a 3-part series provides instruction and hands-on practice to pass the range (maneuvers) and road portions of the Maryland Vehicle Administration (MVA) Class A Commercial Driver’s License examination. Topics include pre-trip inspections, air-brake leak tests, straight-line backing, blind and sight-side parallel parking, shifting, highway and road signs, and basic road operations.  Additionally, students will practice a variety of maneuvers, including backing and parking, up-shifting/down-shifting, and the safe and efficient operation of various tractor-trailer (Class A) vehicles.

This final course in the 3-part series provides instruction and hands-on practice to operate a CDL Class A vehicle and to pass the Maryland Vehicle Administration’s (MVA) Class A Commercial Driver’s License examination to become eligible to work as a Class A commercial driver.  Topics include operating awareness; hours of service for over-the-road vehicle operation; shifting techniques; backing and parking maneuvers; use of flat, convex and fender mirrors; changing lanes and merging; road and weather hazards; emergency stops; breakdowns and accident prevention; and defensive driving techniques.

1. What qualifications are required for this program?Although no prior experience with trucks is required to enroll in the CDL-A Certificate Training Program, students must meet driver qualifications set forth by the Bureau of Motor Carrier Safety and pass the physical examination requirements established by the Department of Transportation (DOT). Students must:
   • Be 18 years of age or older (for intrastate driving) or 21 years of age or older (for interstate driving)
   • Possess a valid non-provisional driver’s license and safe driving record (no more than 3 points on your driving record and maintain zero points for drug or alcohol violations)
   • Communicate in the English language sufficiently, as required by U.S. DOT
   • Successfully complete a DOT physical, which cannot expire during the training period
   • Successfully pass a DOT federal drug screen before moving to the road portion of training
   • Register with the FMCSA Clearinghouse and be willing to participate in random drug and/or alcohol testing at the discretion of program instructors or administrators
2. Do I need any prior experience with trucks?
   No, prior experience is not required.
3. Is financial assistance available?
   Yes! Through Ratcliffe Works and other programs, students may qualify to have up to 100% of the cost of the program covered. Check your eligibility today.
4. Do you offer job placement assistance?
   We invite a group of local employers to meet each class to discuss their particular job openings and how to apply for those positions.
5. What is the hourly pay for truck drivers?
   Drivers can expect to earn $20-25 per hour operating a tractor trailer; $16-22 per hour for a light truck or delivery van. (Wages are based on data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and are estimates only.)