Are you interested in becoming a Class A CDL driver? Before you apply for training sessions, you should know what to expect from your program.

Remember that requirements and procedures can vary depending on the school or company you choose, so be sure to contact them for specific information. But this article should provide a general understanding of the process. Take a look at three things you can expect from Class A CDL driver training.

Classroom Instruction

If you want to become a Class A CDL driver, you will have to complete an approved training program. The classroom instruction in such a program may cover a traditional lecture class and a computer-based learning environment.

You can expect to spend about a couple of hours in the classroom, where you will cover topics such as:

• Trucking industry regulations
• Hours of service
• Trip planning
• Vehicle inspection and maintenance

You will also learn about cargo securement, load shifting, and weight distribution. During the classroom instruction phase, you can ask questions and get clarification from the instructor on any topics you don't fully understand. This part of the training process helps ensure that students are fully prepared for the hands-on driving section of the program. 

Additionally, the classroom instruction phase is a good time for students to get to know their classmates. In many cases, students spend a significant amount of time together during the driving portion of the program. So it helps to establish a good rapport early on.

The classroom instruction sessions may last anywhere from several weeks to a few months. By the end of these sessions, students should understand the material covered and feel comfortable interacting with their classmates.

Behind-the-Wheel Training

After completing your classroom instruction, you'll move on to behind-the-wheel training. That's where you'll get to put all of the concepts you've learned into practice.

You can expect to spend a significant amount of time driving during your Class A CDL driver training. In most cases, you'll be paired up with another student in a truck. You'll take turns driving and serving as the co-driver.

During your driving sessions, you'll have the opportunity to practice a variety of skills, including:

• Backing up
• Parking
• Turning
• Shifting gears

You'll also get to practice driving in different traffic conditions and on various types of roads. You should feel confident and comfortable operating a Class A CDL vehicle by the end of your behind-the-wheel training.

Class A CDL driver training is an important step in starting your career as a truck driver. If you're interested in becoming a Class A CDL driver, be sure to research different training programs to find one that's a good fit for you. And don't forget to ask about the Class A CDL driver training requirements and procedures. By doing your research, you can be sure that you're prepared for every step of the process.