CDL Truck Driver Training
CDL Truck Driver Training
This 10-week program offers students the opportunity to gain valuable skills and prepares students for the Class A Commercial Driver Permit and Commercial Driver License (CDL) exams. Instruction includes theory and practical hands-on behind-the-wheel operation of tractor trailers preparing students to safely operate tractor trailer vehicles on the road to and from pickup and delivery points.
Truck drivers are in high demand, locally and nationally. Local moving and delivery companies, material suppliers, manufacturers, municipalities, construction and landscaping companies, and others have expressed a significant need for drivers and have supported the development of this program through advising, donations, and recruitment of our students. Explore a career in truck driving.
Estimated expenses per course. Registration fee includes textbooks, student registration fee, student insurance, DOT physical and drug test. Students are required to pay for their CDL Learner's Permit exam directly to the DMV ($43) this is not included in the total cost of the program.
| Item | Description | Approximately Cost |
| Registration* | $600.00 | |
| CDL Learner’s Permit | Required written testing for your commercial learner’s permit | $47.00 (paid directly to DMV) |
| CDL-A License Application | Skills/road test and issuance of your Class A CDL | $137.00 (paid directly to DMV) |
| Hazmat Endorsement (Optional) | Background check and testing through TSA and DMV | $86.50 (paid directly to DMV) |
* Additional Information
The $600 registration fee paid to Sandhills Community College includes student insurance, textbooks, and DOT drug testing.
Failure to meet prerequisite requirements prior to registration or complete testing requirements by the end of Week 2 will result in dismissal from the program.
Prerequisites
Before registering, students must complete and submit the following:
- A valid DOT Medical Examiner’s Certificate (DOT Physical)
- A copy of their North Carolina Driving Record (unofficial copy accepted)
- Students will not be allowed to register without both documents on file. Complete your FMCSA DOT physical prior to registration and email copies of your Medical Examiner’s Certificate (and long form if available) to Tess Regan at regant@sandhills.edu.
* Failure to meet prerequisite requirements prior to registration or complete testing requirements by the end of Week 2 will result in dismissal from the program.
Corequisites: None
The CDL Truck Driver Training Program provides instruction in defensive driving, Federal
Motor Carrier Safety Regulations, trip planning, cargo handling, vehicle systems,
hours of service, vehicle inspection, and accident prevention. Upon successful completion,
students will be prepared to take the Commercial Driver License (CDL) skills exam
and begin employment as a professional driver.
Week 1: Orientation and CDL Permit Preparation
- All students, including those who already hold a CDL Learner’s Permit, must attend the first two weeks of class.
Week 2: DMV Testing and DOT Drug Testing
- Students will take the CDL permit test at the DMV and complete any remaining required documentation.
- Students are responsible for the $46 permit test fee (covers up to three attempts).
- Students must pass the CDL permit exam, DOT physical, and drug test by the end of Week 2 to remain enrolled.
Week 3 and Beyond: CDL Training
- Students transition to classroom and hands-on driving instruction covering vehicle
operation, safety, and licensing preparation.
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Prerequisite: None
Corequisite: None
This program provides instruction on defensive driving, Federal Motor Carrier Safety regulations, trip planning, cargo handling, vehicle systems, hours of service, vehicle inspection, and accident prevention. Upon successful completion, students will be able to demonstrate the skills required for the commercial driver license and employment.
Week 1: Orientation and CDL Permit Preparation. (All students, including those with a CDL permit, must attend the first two weeks.)
Week 2: Students will take the CDL permit test at the DMV and complete their DOT physical and drug test.
- Sandhills Community College arranges DOT medical health screening appointments as part of the registration fee.
- Students are responsible for the $46 permit test fee at the DMV, which covers up to three attempts.
- Important: Students must pass the CDL permit exam, DOT physical, and drug test by the end of Week 2 to continue in the program. Without these, they cannot operate any vehicles or continue in the course.
Week 3 and Onward: Classroom and hands-on CDL licensing training begins.