CDL Truck Driver Training

Our Commercial Driver License (CDL) program offers Class A options that will provide you with an excellent foundation for a truck driving career. You will be tested thoroughly on the road and through written exams to ensure that you have the necessary skills and knowledge to successfully and safely operate commercial vehicles.

The program meets the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration standards of specialized training in the areas of driver qualification, hours of service, driver wellness, and whistleblower protection for entry-level drivers who are subject to the requirements (49 CFR Part 380).

If you’re a new driver, you’ll receive training for the North Carolina State Commercial Truck Driving License examination. All training instruction is provided at school facilities and in school-provided equipment. Free practice tests are also available.

The Class A CDL course provides training on inspecting and operating tractor-trailers and assuming driving responsibilities on the road. Emphasis is placed on vehicle inspections, defensive driving, range maneuvers, motor carrier safety regulations and certification, and trip planning.

After satisfactory completion of all course requirements, you will be prepared to take the NC Department of Motor Vehicles Class A CDL examination. Additionally, you will receive a Federal Motor Safety Administration Entry-level Driver Training Certificate and a Craven Community College Certificate of Completion.

Please note: The meeting times for all Daytime CDL classes are 8:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Orientation Sessions

A three-hour orientation session will be held approximately six weeks prior to the start of each Class A course. This will ensure that you have enough time to take care of all requirements needed to enter the respective program. Orientation classes are held at 5:30 p.m.

Orientation is mandatory prior to registering for the Class A CDL License course.

Register for Orientation

Job Opportunities

We provide support in placing graduates into industry employment. In addition, CDL Job Now and CDL Jobs.com have many truck driving positions available for both recent graduates and experienced drivers, as well as Careers in Gear, which offers over 2.7 million trucking jobs across the US.

Program Requirements

• Be at least 18 years of age
• Read, write, and speak English
• Have a valid North Carolina driver’s license
• Must be eligible to obtain a North Carolina Class A Commercial Learner's Permit (i.e., must have proof of insurance and identification at the NC Department of Motor Vehicles)
• Pass and obtain a US Department of Transportation (DOT) physical examination no more than six months prior to start of class
• Obtain a driving record not more than three months prior to the start of class. Any of the following violations within four years of finishing the class will prohibit entering the program:
  • Driving while impaired (DWI)
  • Careless and reckless driving
  • Hit and run
  • Refusal to take chemical test
• Pass a DOT drug screening test at a lab designated by the school

Registration Deadline

All enrollment requirements must be presented in person. Payment is required at the time of registration. Deadline to register is one week prior to start of class.

Please note: The meeting times for all Daytime CDL classes are 8:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.

VA Funding Available

Classes in this program are approved for VA benefits. Visit our Veteran Benefits for Workforce Training page to learn more.