Becoming a truck driver is an excellent career choice for many, offering flexibility, job security, and competitive pay. One of the first steps to starting your career in this industry is attending truck driving school to obtain your Commercial Driver’s License (CDL). In this article, we will address how long is truck driving school, as well as related topics such as CDL school length, CDL course length, and more.
How Long Does Trucking School Take?
The length of truck driving school varies based on several factors, including the program you choose and your experience level. On average, truck driving schools can last anywhere from 3 to 7 weeks. Full-time programs typically take about 4 to 6 weeks to complete, while part-time programs may take longer.
Keep in mind that these are general time frames, and your individual experience may vary. Some trucking schools offer accelerated courses, which could potentially reduce the time it takes to complete the program.
How Long Does CDL Training Take?
CDL training is an essential component of truck driving school, as it prepares you to pass the CDL exam and become a licensed truck driver. CDL training length varies depending on the specific class you take and whether you’re attending a full-time or part-time program. On average, CDL training takes about 160 to 240 hours, which equates to approximately 4 to 6 weeks of full-time study.
CDL Class Length and Types of Classes
There are three primary CDL classes: Class A, Class B, and Class C. The class of the truck driving school you need depends on the type of vehicle you plan to drive. Generally, Class A is for larger, heavier trucks like tractor-trailers, while Class B is for smaller, lighter vehicles like buses and delivery trucks. Class C is for vehicles not covered under Class A or B but require a CDL, such as passenger vans and some hazardous material vehicles.
CDL class length varies based on the type of class and program of your truck driving school, but most programs follow similar timeframes. Here’s a general breakdown of how long CDL classes take:
- Class A: 4 to 6 weeks of full-time training or 8 to 12 weeks of part-time training
- Class B: 3 to 4 weeks of full-time training or 6 to 8 weeks of part-time training
- Class C: 2 to 3 weeks of full-time training or 4 to 6 weeks of part-time training
CDL Course Length and Curriculum of Truck Driving School
CDL course length depends on the program you choose and the type of CDL class you need. Most CDL courses cover both classroom instruction and hands-on training. The curriculum typically includes topics such as:
- Federal and state regulations
- Vehicle inspection and maintenance
- Basic driving skills
- Advanced driving techniques
- Hazardous materials handling
- Logbook maintenance
- Accident procedures
As you can see, there’s a lot to learn when it comes to becoming a professional truck driver. By attending a reputable truck driving school, you’ll be well-prepared to pass your CDL exam and start your new career.
Conclusion: How Long Does Truck Driving School Take?
To sum it up, the length of truck driving school varies depending on factors such as the type of program, CDL class, and your individual needs. On average, truck driving schools take 3 to 7 weeks to complete, while CDL training takes about 4 to 6 weeks of full-time study. By choosing the right program and dedicating yourself to the coursework, you’ll be on your way to a successful career in the trucking industry in no time.
