What are CDL classes, and why do they matter?
Commercial drivers are in high demand, but to enter this fast-growing field, you’ll need to earn a commercial driver’s license (CDL). These licenses allow you to drive heavy vehicles like tractor-trailers, buses, straight trucks, and some delivery trucks. Whether you pursue a Class A license or a Class B license, you’ll undergo in-class lessons and hands-on training to develop the skills, safety knowledge, and driving ability required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).
What can you expect from CDL classes? You’ll be asked to dedicate time and money toward your future career, so it’s important to know what to expect if you venture down this path. Understanding what’s expected of you as a CDL student in terms of testing and schedule options can also help you choose a truck driving school and stay committed to training.
In this article, we’ll cover how CDL classes work and what the commercial driver’s license class structure looks like. We’ll also review how long training takes, what a sample timeline might look like, what to expect from CDL classes, and how to set yourself up for success.
Key takeaways
- CDL classes combine classroom instruction and behind-the-wheel training to prepare you for written knowledge tests, pre-trip inspections, and real-world truck driving skills.
- Most full-time CDL programs take about 4–8 weeks, while part-time or weekend classes often run 8–12+ weeks, with the structure similar: get your CLP → classroom learning → driving practice → skills and road tests.
- Training length and intensity depend on license type (Class A vs. Class B), endorsements, state rules, school format, schedule, and logistics like truck availability, weather, and class size.
- To start CDL classes, you’ll typically need a valid driver’s license, CLP, DOT physical, drug screen, and basic safety gear, plus good study habits and time-management skills.
- After classes, you’ll test for your CDL, complete an orientation period with a trainer, and can later add endorsements or upgrade from Class B to Class A to access more job options and higher-paying roles.
What you’ll do in CDL classes: classroom learning vs. practical training
CDL classes are structured training classes you’ll take to obtain a commercial driver’s license. Typically, CDL classes include two main parts: classroom instruction and driving practice.
In the classroom, you’ll learn everything you need to know to prepare for the written knowledge tests issued by your state licensing office. This information includes local traffic laws, safe driving practices, and handling larger commercial vehicles. You’ll also learn the ins and outs of a truck’s features and functions, including how to perform a pre-trip inspection. Plus, you’ll understand how different endorsements (e.g., tanker, hazmat, passenger) influence which vehicles you’ll be allowed to drive. To dive deeper into these topics, students can refer to the FMCSA’s Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) curriculum.
Outside the classroom, driving students get hands-on training behind the wheel of a commercial vehicle. In the driver’s seat, you’ll learn basic controls, such as how to shift (for manual vehicles), turn, and brake safely. A large part of this training will involve backing up, including straight-line backing, offset backing, and parallel parking, which must be demonstrated during a CDL skills test. There may also be training in yards, on streets, and on highways, so you can get comfortable driving in different settings. Students training for a Class A license will also learn how to couple and uncouple a trailer.
Many truck driving schools structure their classroom and hands-on training in rotating blocks. They may hold lectures or computer-based modules in the morning, followed by simulator labs or yard practice in the afternoon. This format allows students to immediately put into practice everything they learn in the classroom.
Typical structure and timeline of CDL classes
CDL classes usually follow a clear structure, allowing students to progress from beginner to licensed commercial driver with a clear timeline. Most full-time CDL class training programs last for between four and eight weeks. During these intensive classes, students meet during regular daytime hours, making this ideal for those ready to start their careers quickly. Part-time options are also available and are often offered in the evenings or on weekends. Training can take between eight and 12 weeks, or more. This option is best for those who want to keep working their current jobs while training for a new one, or for those with other commitments outside of training.
Regardless of whether you choose part-time or full-time training, programs typically follow the same structure:
- Get your Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP). Before driving a truck under an instructor’s supervision, students need to obtain a Commercial Learner’s Permit from their state licensing office. This includes passing a series of written tests that cover general knowledge, air brakes, and (if needed) combination vehicles for Class A training. You can either obtain your CLP before your CDL classes begin, or some schools help you study for your CLP during your first week of classes.
- Complete classroom training. During classroom training, you’ll learn the rules of the road, brush up on safety standards, learn how to manage logbooks, and more. This knowledge helps you prepare for the skills tests and provides the foundation you need to drive in the real world.
- Start behind-the-wheel training. After acquiring the basic knowledge you need to operate a vehicle, you’ll finally get to sit behind the wheel and put your knowledge to the test. You’ll practice shifting, backing, turning, and—in Class A programs—coupling and uncoupling. Many schools allow students to experiment in simulators before moving on to real trucks.
- Take your skills and road tests. With training behind you, you’re ready for your skills test and road test, both of which can be completed either at a state site or through a third-party tester approved by your state.
A timeline for the above activities might look like the following:
- Week 1: Classroom study, CLP support, safety modules
- Week 2: Simulator training, range practice, pre-trip inspections
- Week 3-4: Road driving, highway driving, long-haul training (for Class A)
Students seeking endorsements to drive hazmat vehicles or tankers can add extra modules through their CDL class provider. Endorsements help expand job opportunities once you have your license in hand.
What affects the length and intensity of CDL classes?
Many factors influence how long CDL classes take and the level of training intensity.
- The type of license you choose to obtain is the biggest factor. Class A programs usually take longer because they cover combination vehicles, coupling and uncoupling, and advanced backing skills. Class B training, on the other hand, tends to be shorter because you train on a single commercial vehicle, like a straight truck or a bus.
- Endorsements can take longer to obtain because they involve additional classroom modules and testing requirements, but securing one can offer more job opportunities once you finish your training.
- State regulations can affect training schedules, as some states require more behind-the-wheel hours. States may also vary in terms of how many students can train with one instructor, which affects pacing.
- School format is another factor in timelines and pacing. Private truck driving schools tend to offer faster, full-time CDL class training, while smaller schools and community colleges might follow a semester-type schedule, which takes longer to complete. Programs sponsored by employers can be intensive and move faster because companies want students to ramp up and start work quickly.
- Scheduling choices have a meaningful impact on time and intensity. Full-time CDL classes move faster and often take between four and eight weeks, while part-time or hybrid options can last up to 12 weeks or more.
- Finally, logistics can affect a student’s progress through truck driving school. Things like vehicle availability determine how often you can participate in behind-the-wheel training. Weather can also slow down range and road practice, especially in the winter. Large class sizes may result in longer rotation times between trucks, extending hands-on training.
These factors, especially when combined, can significantly impact the pace, depth, and daily structure of your CDL training experience.
How to prepare for CDL classes: What you’ll need and how to succeed
As you prepare to enroll in CDL classes, you’ll need to obtain the following items:
- A valid driver’s license and a Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP). You can take tests for these certifications through your state Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).
- A physical exam. Most schools require students to pass a physical exam issued by the Department of Transportation (DOT).
- Drug screening. In addition to a physical exam, some schools also require students to pass a drug test before beginning behind-the-wheel training.
- Proper clothing and supplies. Some programs ask students to wear closed-toe boots or a basic uniform for safety reasons, and some also recommend students bring a small toolkit for pre-trip inspection practice.
Soft skills will also come in handy for CDL students. Things like good study habits make CDL class training much easier. Before classes begin, students can review basic road rules and vehicle inspection checklists from their state’s CDL manual. As one of the more detailed parts of the skills test, knowing how to perform a pre-trip inspection is a crucial piece of training. Arriving at class early, staying organized, and logging training hours can set students up for success, not only in truck driving school but also once they’re on the road.
CDL classes can be physically and mentally demanding. You may spend hours sitting while focusing on long stretches of highway driving. If you plan to train for long-haul driving, you’ll also need to prepare to spend time away from home once you start your career.
To set the right tone and work toward the career you want, choosing the right truck driving school is imperative. Look for programs with strong pass rates, a well-maintained fleet of vehicles, experienced instructors, and support for job placement. Read reviews on Google or Indeed to give yourself a better idea of a school’s reputation.
What comes next: From class to license to career
You’ve completed your CDL classes—what now? Once classes have finished, you’ll take the state CDL knowledge test, unless you already took it as part of the CLP process. Then you’ll schedule your behind-the-wheel skills test, which includes pre-trip inspection, basic control maneuvers, and a road test. Once you pass this test, your state will issue you a commercial driver’s license, either Class A or Class B, depending on your training.
Your first driving job will likely involve an orientation period, during which you might be paired with a trainer for several weeks of supervised driving. During this probationary phase, you’ll gain real-world experience, learn company policies, and become more comfortable with long routes, customers, and freight handling.
As your career grows and evolves, you may want to add endorsements, such as hazmat, tanker, or passenger, to expand your career opportunities. Some drivers upgrade their Class B licenses to Class A to qualify for higher-paying roles. To do so, students will need to take extra classroom modules, complete tests, and/or take additional CDL classes, each of which builds on the foundation you started during your first training program.
Frequently asked questions about CDL classes
See below for answers to commonly asked questions about CDL training, coursework, and testing.
- How many weeks are CDL classes?
- Full-time CDL classes can take between four and eight weeks, while part-time or weekend programs can last for eight to 12 weeks, or longer.
- Do I need to complete classes before I apply for a job?
- Yes, according to FMCSA’s ELDT rules, you must complete approved CDL training and take your skills test before you can apply for a job as a commercial driver.
- As part of training, will I be able to drive a real truck?
- Yes, CDL class training includes behind-the-wheel training in a truck where you’ll practice range driving and road driving.
- Can I get endorsements in the same class time, or do I need separate training?
- Some schools include tanker or passenger modules as part of their standard training. Hazmat, on the other hand, usually requires additional study and a TSA background check.
- If I fail any of the tests, do I have to retake classes or just retake the test?
- If you fail part of the test, most students only need to retake the section they did not pass. Students typically do not need to repeat the entire training program.
Your path from CDL classes to a commercial driving career
Enrolling in CDL classes gives you a clear, structured path from learning commercial driving rules to practicing real skills behind the wheel of a truck. Depending on whether you choose a Class A or a Class B license and whether you decide to add endorsements, your timeline to complete your CDL training will vary. But when you know what to expect and how to devote your time and effort toward your training, transitioning into a trucking career can be smooth, seamless, and enjoyable.
Ready to get started? Research CDL training programs near you to compare class length and pass rates. Then, schedule your CLP test and take the first step toward earning your commercial driver’s license.
