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Distance Education:
Commercial Drivers License (CDL)
Class A Driver Training
Date:
 November 21, 2011 through January 6, 2012
Time: 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Cost: $5,611
Optional Endorsements: Passenger $525 & HAZMAT $94
Register by: November 14, 2011
Instructor: John Lewis
Location: Craig Tribal Association Computer Lab

With an intensive one-on-one approach, this six-week (148 hours) training course is designed for inexperienced drivers interested in learning how to drive a tractor trailer, obtain an IA Instruction Permit, and to maximize the successful attainment of a Class A Commercial Drivers License.
Laboratory, classroom, and driving instruction (range and street) will include lessons and training materials from the Trucking: Tractor-Trailer Driver Handbook/Workbook, second edition (developed by the Professional Truck Driver Institute, Inc. (PTDI) and Thompson Delmar Learning).  The State of Alaska, Division of Motor Vehicles Commercial Driver License Manual will also be used as additional guidance.  Some of the topics covered will include:

  • Basic Operation
  • Safe Operating Practices
  • Advanced Operating Practices
  • Non-Vehicle Activities
  • Vehicle Systems & Reporting Malfunctions
  

The VTRC Instructor will be responsible for trainee appointment and scheduling of the CDL driving test.  The VTRC will supply vehicle to take the Class A driving test.
Drug Test required including other prerequisites (see attached) for CDL training.

A maximum of three (3) students will be enrolled; register early to guarantee a spot in this class.  Contact Marilynn at the VTRC for more information, prerequisites, availability and registration.

CDL Course Prerequisites:

  • Must be at least 18 years of age.
  • Must have a high school diploma or GED certificate.
  • Must have a valid Alaska Drivers License for a minimum of one year (12 months) before date of application.
  • Trainee must obtain a medical examiner’s certificate and will receive this card upon taking CDL medical exam at the Juneau Urgent Care. This is part of the tuition; trainee’s name will be given to Juneau Urgent Care by VTRC.
  • Must pass a drug screen test.  Drug test screening is required prior to training (costs are included as part of student tuition).  This is also done at the Juneau Urgent Care.

         Drug Test:  trainees must conduct their drug screen no less than five (5) days prior to the class for test results to be returned in time for enrollment in the first day of class.  Positive drug screen reports will warrant ineligibility for enrollment.

    • Preferable clean driving record.  Motor vehicle reports (MVR) will need to be submitted prior to the class.  Students will be reimbursed the $10.00 fee at the end of course.  DWI and other serious driving infractions will be considered to determine ineligibility for enrollment.  Any fees required of these reports will be part of the trainee’s tuition.
    • All trainees must have appropriate clothing (i.e., rain gear, gloves, work boots, work pants, work shirts, warm clothing and a small hand flashlight).  Tennis shoes are not allowed for driving.
    • All trainees must complete a training application which requests personal and health related information.

    Passenger Endorsements:

    The following endorsements are optional and students may want to consider adding these to their CDL Class A license.  Acquiring these skills could increase earning capabilities.

    Acquiring a Passenger Endorsement through VTRC is an additional $525.  The threat assessment/finger printing for HAZMAT Endorsed CDL drivers is $94.

    PASSENGER ENDORSEMENT:

    All CDL Class A students have the option of obtaining and adding a passenger endorsement to their Class A license during the six-week training course.

    A passenger endorsement allows students to drive vehicles with passengers such as city buses, tour buses, crew buses, trolley, etc.

    The $525 fee is in addition to the Class A tuition and will cover the student’s behind the wheel time in the VTRC bus and DMV fees.

    HAZMAT ENDORSEMENT:

    As of January 31, 2005, Homeland Security requires all Hazmat endorsed CDL drivers to be fingerprinted/threat assessed.

    The HAZMAT Endorsement allows CDL drivers to haul diesel fuel, chemicals, radio active material, etc.