Commercial Driver’s License (CDL-A) Tractor-Trailer Driving School
Adult Education Course – 60 Course Hours
Plattsburgh Satellite Campus
The Tractor Trailer Driver Training Program is a 60-hour, experiential course offering instruction on a variety of topics such as: Introduction to the Tractor Trailer, Vehicle Control Systems, Inspections, Basic Control, Proficiency Development, Safe Operating Procedures, Advanced Operating Procedures, and Street Driving. Completion of the CDL Class A program leads to eligibility for Department of Motor Vehicle testing and licensure.
Course of Study
Introduction
- Commercial Motor Vehicles
- Commercial Drive License (CDL) & Commercial Learner Permit (CLP) Classes, Endorsement & Restrictions
- CDL and CLP Requirements
- CDL Tests
- Additional Requirements for Bus Drivers
- Driver Disqualifications
- Other Commercial Privilege Rules
- International Registration Plan
- International Fuel Tax Agreement
Introduction to the Tractor Trailer
Vehicle Control Systems
- Controls
- Function of Vehicle Instruments
- Shifting
Inspections
- Types of Vehicle Inspections
- Inspection Details
- Pre-Trip Inspection Procedures
- En-Route and Post-Trip Inspections
- Additional Procedures for Special Vehicles
- Reporting
- Vehicle Systems
Basic Control
- Starting, Warming Up & Shutting Down
- In Motion & Stopping
- Backing in a Straight Line
- Turning
- Range Exercises & Practice
- Pre-Street Range Test
- Coupling and Uncoupling
Proficiency Development
- Backing
- Space Management
- Speed Management
- On-Street Proficiency Development
Safe Operating Procedures
- Visual Search
- Lane Changing
- Passing, Merging, Exiting & Turning
- Parking Procedures
- Preparing for Street Lessons
Advanced Operating Procedures
- Diagnosing & Reporting Malfunctions
- Troubleshooting & Problem Solving
- Reporting Requirement: Log Books
- Night Operation
Street Driving
Program Highlights
-
60 Hours “Cab” Time
- Course Length: 6-8 Weeks
- Cab Time Arranged by Appointment
- Instructor-Student Ratio: 2:1
- Emphasis on Driving Skills
- Year-Round, Rolling Admission
- FMCSA Entry-Level Driver Training compliant
- Instructor assistance in planning testing arrangements
- Tractor trailer provided for training and road test
- Financial assistance available for qualified adults
- Classes meet at CV-TEC Satellite Campus
Prerequisites
Candidates seeking to enroll in CV-TEC’s COMMERCIAL DRIVER’S LICENSE (CDL-A) must meet the following eligibility requirements:
- Must be 21 Years of Age or Older
- CDL Class A Driver’s Permit (DMV)
- Recent Physical Examination (DOT)
- Recent Drug Test (DOT)
- Previous Experience with Standard Shift Vehicle
- Background Check
Requirements
- Completion of 60 hours of behind-the-wheel training (public road and range)
- Successful completion of self-paced online theory course (approximately 12 hours)
- Pass all parts of the NYS CDL-A road test
Important Info
Class Brochure - View Download
Adult Education Form - View Download
Adult & Continuing Education Catalog - Explore Options
Career Connections
- CDL-A Driver
Certifications
- NYS Licensure