Congratulations! You’ve decided to get your CDL and think that a Class A is the best fit for you. You’ve done the research, can estimate how much the process will cost, and now you’ve got to figure out how to get your Theory and Behind-the-Wheel trainings. While we can’t tell you which method is the best fit for you, we can explain the different methods so that you can find your best fit.
(Just getting started and not really sure if a CDL is right for you? Check out these past blogs for a overviews of the CDL process, fees and financial aid, and endorsements and restrictions!)
What is a Class A License?
Like all driver’s licenses, CDLs have different classes that
determine what you’re allowed to drive.
Class A:
- Is needed to drive combination vehicles with a
combined weight over 26,001 lbs, provided the trailer is over 10,000 lbs.
- Is the class needed to drive a traditional big
rig or semi-truck.
- Requires Theory and Behind-the-Wheel ELDT
training before you can take a CDL skills test (road test) for your license.
- Requires a knowledge test to gain a Commercial
Learner’s Permit (CLP). You must hold the CLP for a minimum of 14 days before
taking the CDL skills test.
What’s the difference between Theory and Behind-the-Wheel training?
Theory:
Theory training teaches the concepts of how to safely drive your Class A vehicle and trailer.
Behind-the-Wheel (BTW):
BTW training is the hands-on, in-vehicle application of what you’ve learned in the theory course. BTW is necessary for learning how to operate and maintain your truck and trailer and how to respond to emergency situations.
The Two Training Paths
Many trucking schools will offer the theory and BTW courses
for an all-in-one program. Trucking schools have a lot of costs to maintain the
vehicles and keep the school insured and running, so it makes sense that the
BTW training is the most expensive part of getting your CDL.
Some people have found that they can save some money by
taking the theory and BTW trainings from different providers. That’s where we
come in.
We offer the Class A ELDT course here for only $99!
As a registered provider with the FMCSA’s Training Provider
Registry, our Class A ELDT theory course meets all CFR and FMCSA regulations.
Like all our courses, the Class A ELDT course is self-paced and designed with
industry experts and professional educators to ensure that what you learn in
the courses sticks with you long after you finish the training.
You’ve got a lot going on in your life and a whole lot of
new information to learn; we get that, which is why you’ll never lose access to
the course. You can come back to review the material as many times as you need
or want to!
Testing
Classes A requires knowledge test to get your learner’s
permit. A learner’s permit must be obtained before doing the Behind-the-Wheel
portion of ELDT. Once you complete both your Theory and Behind-the-Wheel ELDT
training, and have had your learner’s permit for 14 days, you will be required
to take a CDL skills test to complete the process and get your license.
Each state requires their own applications, forms, proofs of
residency, testing fees, and scheduling requirements. Contact your DMV to find
out exactly what you’ll need.
The Bottom Line
You’ve decided that driving commercially is the right fit
for you; now, it’s time to find the training provider that fits you too. The
DMV can only accept training records from approved providers, so make sure that
you use the FMCSA’s Training Provider Registry to find approved providers and
keep yourself and your wallet safe.
