The program is based at the college’s skills center and is approved by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration and the Arizona Department of Transportation. Enrollment is open for upcoming sessions, and students do not need previous commercial driving experience.

$200,000 Grant Helps Equip New Program

A $200,000 grant from the Arizona Office of Economic Opportunity helped fund the training equipment. The program has a CDL simulator, an International bus, two dry vans, a late-model Freightliner Cascadia, and a Volvo VNR.

Students will have the opportunity to train on both manual and automatic vehicles. The college is offering instruction for first-time drivers as well as Class A and Class B credentials, school bus drivers and experienced drivers looking for refresher training. Customized instruction can also be developed for companies in trucking, construction, paving, excavation and other industries.

Classes Designed Around Flexible Schedules

Classes meet once a week in four-hour blocks from Monday through Thursday, with morning and afternoon sessions available. Training is currently offered at the Holbrook campus at 2251 E. Navajo Blvd., and the college said additional training locations are planned.

Program costs start at $4,000. Students must also complete a $125 online Entry-Level Driver Training theory course, while financial assistance is available to those who qualify. Companies that enroll employees and provide their own training vehicles may qualify for discounted pricing.

Requirements Before Training Begins

Before entering the program, students must have a commercial learner’s permit and provide a three-year driving record, driver’s license, and current DOT physical that includes a drug screen. Students are also required to register with the FMCSA Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse.

The new program adds commercial driver training to Northland Pioneer College’s workforce offerings across northeastern Arizona. The college serves communities throughout Navajo and Apache counties, with its fall 2026 programs already underway.

The TDUSA editorial team creates practical, driver-focused content covering trucking news, industry updates, safety, regulations, and career information for professional truck drivers across the United States. Each article is built to reflect real-world experience, industry developments, and information drivers can use on and off the road.

Last Updated: September 4, 2026

Source: Truckers News

Image Source: NPC

The post Northland Pioneer College Launches CDL Training Program in Northeastern Arizona appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

Taylor received the award after assisting a trafficking victim in 2018 and now serves on the TAT Advisory Committee, where he continues supporting the organization’s mission to educate transportation professionals about recognizing and reporting suspected human trafficking.

“Freedom is a privilege that every human being should have, and being identified with a freedom fighter like Harriet Tubman enriched my life to keep that fight alive at all costs,” Taylor said.

Why Professional Drivers Can Make a Difference

According to Taylor, professional drivers are in a unique position because they travel through cities, rural communities, truck stops and highways across the country, allowing them to observe situations that others may never encounter.

“We have eyes all over the road, on city streets, neighborhoods and all over,” Taylor said. “Everything in the country is delivered by trucks, which means there are a set of eyes everywhere.”

He added that drivers are accustomed to staying alert throughout the workday and often notice activity that appears out of place.

Training Helps Drivers Recognize Warning Signs

Taylor said TAT’s training gives drivers practical information about recognizing potential trafficking situations and understanding how to respond appropriately.

Rather than encouraging drivers to intervene directly, TAT emphasizes observing suspicious activity, documenting details when it is safe to do so, and reporting concerns to law enforcement through the appropriate channels.

According to the organization, its educational resources include online training, refresher courses and a mobile app designed to help transportation professionals identify potential warning signs and understand recommended reporting procedures.

A Life-Changing Experience

Taylor said assisting the trafficking victim in 2018 changed his perspective on the issue.

“The incident with a trafficking victim changed my life,” he said. “Human trafficking didn’t feel real until you heard about their life dealing with it.”

A U.S. military veteran, Taylor said he has long believed in helping people in need whenever possible, adding that his experience reinforced the importance of remaining aware of situations that may require law enforcement assistance.

Free Resources Available for Drivers

TAT offers free training materials for transportation professionals, including on-demand online courses, refresher training, and a mobile application available for Apple and Android devices in multiple languages.

According to TAT, individual training courses take approximately 35 minutes or less to complete and are available to both individual drivers and companies that choose to train their employees.

Additional information about TAT’s training resources is available on the organization’s website.

The TDUSA editorial team creates practical, driver-focused content covering trucking news, industry updates, safety, regulations, and career information for professional truck drivers across the United States. Each article is built to reflect real-world experience, industry developments, and information drivers can use on and off the road.

Last Updated: August 12, 2026

Source: The Trucker, Lyn Leeburg

Image Source: TAT, Arian Taylor, Lyn Leeburg

The post TAT Highlights Truck Driver’s Role in Combating Human Trafficking appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

Understanding how those steps connect can make the process easier to follow and help drivers avoid unexpected delays along the way.

Age Requirements Are One of the First Things to Understand

Virginia allows drivers to obtain a CDL at 18 years old, but age can affect the types of jobs available after licensing.

Drivers who are 18, 19, or 20 years old can operate commercial vehicles within Virginia. Most interstate trucking jobs require drivers to be at least 21 years old because interstate commerce falls under federal regulations.

For someone planning a trucking career, that distinction matters. A driver may qualify for a CDL but still needs to wait before becoming eligible for certain positions.

The Permit Is Where the Process Begins

Before any skills testing can take place, drivers must obtain a Commercial Learner’s Permit. The permit requires passing knowledge exams based on the type of CDL being pursued. Drivers seeking endorsements such as Tank Vehicle, Passenger, School Bus, Double and Triple Trailers, or Hazardous Materials may also need additional knowledge testing.

While many applicants focus on simply passing the permit exam, the information learned during this stage becomes important later. Vehicle inspection procedures, safety regulations, and operating practices introduced during permit preparation frequently appear throughout training and testing.

Training Is Now Part of the Licensing Process

After obtaining a permit, many applicants must complete Entry Level Driver Training before becoming eligible for a skills test.

Federal regulations require first-time Class A and Class B CDL applicants, certain CDL upgrades, and some endorsement applicants to complete training through a provider listed in the FMCSA Training Provider Registry.

The training combines classroom instruction with behind-the-wheel experience and serves as the bridge between permit testing and CDL skills testing.

The Skills Test Covers More Than Driving

Once training requirements have been completed, drivers can move on to the CDL skills test. Many people think of the skills test as a road test, but it actually includes three separate evaluations. Drivers must complete a vehicle inspection, demonstrate basic vehicle control skills, and successfully perform an on-road driving test.

The vehicle inspection portion often receives less attention than backing exercises or road driving, but it carries the same importance during the evaluation process.

Some Jobs Require More Than a Standard CDL

Passing the skills test earns a CDL, but some driving jobs require additional qualifications. Tanker operations require a Tank Vehicle endorsement. Passenger transportation jobs require a Passenger endorsement, while school bus drivers must meet additional endorsement requirements. Drivers interested in hauling hazardous materials must complete additional federal screening requirements before obtaining a Hazardous Materials endorsement.

Because endorsement requirements vary by job type, reviewing employment opportunities before testing can help drivers determine which credentials may be worth pursuing.

Documentation Can Slow Everything Down

Even drivers who complete training and testing can encounter delays if the required paperwork is missing.

Virginia CDL applicants generally need proof of identity, proof of residency, a valid driver’s license, and any required medical certification documentation. Missing records, expired documents, or incomplete paperwork can delay the licensing process regardless of test performance.

For that reason, documentation should receive the same attention as studying and training throughout the CDL process.

FAQ

How long do you have to hold a Virginia Commercial Learner’s Permit before taking the CDL skills test?

Virginia applicants must generally hold a Commercial Learner’s Permit for at least 14 days before taking the CDL skills test.

Can you take the Virginia CDL skills test in an automatic transmission truck?

Yes. However, testing in a vehicle with an automatic transmission may result in a restriction that limits the operation of certain manual transmission commercial vehicles.

Do Virginia CDL applicants need a DOT medical card?

Many commercial drivers must obtain a Medical Examiner’s Certificate from a certified medical examiner. Requirements can vary depending on the type of commercial driving being performed.

Can an out-of-state CDL be transferred to Virginia?

Yes. Drivers moving to Virginia can generally transfer a valid out-of-state CDL, though they may need to provide documentation and meet Virginia licensing requirements.

What happens if you fail part of the Virginia CDL skills test?

Applicants who fail a portion of the skills test must retake the failed portion before a CDL can be issued.

Where can drivers find an approved Entry Level Driver Training provider?

Approved providers can be found through the FMCSA Training Provider Registry, which lists schools and training organizations authorized to provide Entry Level Driver Training.

The Truck Drivers USA editorial team creates practical, driver-focused content covering industry topics, job trends, and real-world decisions that impact drivers at every stage of their careers. Each article is written to provide clear, accurate information that drivers can use.

Last updated: June 18, 2026

The post Virginia CDL Requirements from Permit to Skills Test appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

According to FMCSA, the funding will support projects involving state agencies, law enforcement organizations, training providers, and industry groups connected to the trucking and bus industries.

The agency said the grants are intended to strengthen roadway safety, improve commercial driver qualification systems, support workforce development efforts, and expand technology used during roadside inspections and investigations.

Funding Will Support CDL Systems, Enforcement, And Driver Training

FMCSA said part of the funding will help states modernize commercial driver licensing systems and improve compliance with federal CDL requirements.

Other funding areas include safety enforcement training for law enforcement personnel and technology programs designed to improve inspection and investigation efficiency.

The agency also said grant funding will support career training programs for current and former members of the U.S. Armed Forces transitioning into trucking and transportation careers.

“These grant programs reflect FMCSA’s commitment to advancing safety while supporting the continued growth of the commercial motor vehicle industry,” said FMCSA Administrator Derek Barrs. “By partnering with states, training providers, law enforcement, and nonprofit organizations, we are helping build a stronger transportation workforce, improving safety outcomes, and delivering on the administration’s mission to move freight more safely and efficiently across the country.”

Several Grant Programs Are Included in the Funding Announcement

FMCSA said the available funding includes multiple grant categories connected to commercial vehicle safety, licensing, technology, and workforce development.

The High Priority Commercial Motor Vehicle Grant Program supports projects tied to crash reduction efforts, hazardous materials transportation safety, commercial vehicle enforcement initiatives, safety data improvement projects, and public education connected to commercial vehicle safety.

FMCSA also announced funding through the High Priority Innovative Technology Development Grant Program, which focuses on technology systems connected to commercial vehicle safety networks and enforcement operations.

Additional funding includes the Commercial Driver’s License Program Implementation Grant Program, which helps states improve CDL system performance, strengthen licensing compliance, and modernize driver qualification systems.

FMCSA also said the Commercial Motor Vehicle Operator Safety Training Grant Program will continue supporting organizations that provide training opportunities for military veterans and other individuals entering trucking and transportation careers.

Applications Remain Open Through June 17

FMCSA encouraged eligible organizations to submit projects as soon as possible.

According to the agency, applications must be submitted by 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time on June 17.

Additional grant information, eligibility requirements, and funding details are available through FMCSA’s grants page and Grants.gov.

The Truck Drivers USA editorial team creates practical, driver-focused content covering industry topics, job trends, and real-world decisions that impact drivers at every stage of their careers. Each article is written to provide clear, accurate information that drivers can use.

Last updated: May 22, 2026

Source: Truckers News

The post FMCSA Opens More Than $217 Million in Funding for Safety, CDL Systems, and Driver Training Programs appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

For people preparing to enter trucking, Missouri offers a combination of independent CDL schools, community college programs, and carrier-sponsored training options throughout the state.

The right school usually depends on training quality, driving time, licensing goals, schedule flexibility, and the type of trucking job a student plans to pursue after graduation.

Some of the better-known CDL training options in Missouri include:

Louis Community College Truck Driving Program
State Fair Community College Commercial Driving Academy
Three Rivers College Commercial Driving Training
Ranken Technical College CDL Program
Clement Truck Driving Academy
CDL Pros Kansas City

Programs, tuition, endorsements, testing availability, and training schedules can vary heavily between schools, which is why students should compare more than just price before enrolling.

Missouri Students Should Verify ELDT Compliance First

Before choosing a CDL school, students should confirm that the training provider is properly listed through the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s Training Provider Registry. Federal Entry Level Driver Training rules require new Class A CDL applicants and certain Class B applicants to complete training through an approved provider before taking the CDL skills test.

Missouri students should also verify:

Whether the school offers Class A or Class B training
If manual transmission training is included
Whether testing is available onsite
How much actual driving time is provided
What endorsements are covered during training
Whether weekend or evening classes are available

Some schools focus primarily on basic CDL licensing, while others also prepare students for tanker, passenger, doubles/triples, or hazardous materials endorsements.

Driving Time Often Separates Strong Programs from Weak Ones

One of the biggest differences between CDL schools is the amount of actual behind-the-wheel experience students receive before testing. Some programs spend large amounts of time in classrooms or observation periods, which some argue limits real driving repetition.

Students comparing Missouri schools should ask:

How many students share each truck
How much backing practice is included
Whether highway driving is part of training
How many hours are spent actively driving
Whether instructors remain inside the truck during road training

More driving repetition usually helps students feel more prepared for their first trucking job after licensing. The strongest programs usually balance classroom instruction with consistent road time instead of rushing students through basic maneuvers simply to complete testing requirements.

Independent Schools and Sponsored Training Programs Work Differently

Missouri students can generally choose between independent CDL schools and carrier-sponsored training tied directly to a trucking company. Independent schools may provide more flexibility when choosing employers after graduation, although upfront tuition costs are often higher. On the other hand, carrier-sponsored programs sometimes reduce initial training costs in exchange for employment agreements after licensing.

Before signing any sponsorship agreement, students should understand:

Length of required employment contracts
Repayment rules if leaving early
Starting pay structure
Route expectations
Home time schedules
Whether additional driver training follows CDL graduation

The lowest upfront cost does not always create the strongest long-term opportunity if the contract terms become restrictive later.

Missouri Gives New Drivers Access to Several Freight Markets

Missouri’s freight network gives new CDL holders access to several types of trucking operations shortly after training.

Regional dry van freight, refrigerated hauling, agriculture transportation, flatbed operations, dedicated retail freight, and intermodal transportation all remain active throughout the state.

Kansas City and St. Louis continue serving as major freight hubs because of interstate access, rail connections, warehouse growth, and large distribution networks tied to Midwest freight movement. That variety can help newer drivers move between different freight sectors as experience starts building.

For many students, the best CDL school is not necessarily the closest location or the fastest program. Training quality, real driving experience, instructor support, job placement assistance, and long-term career flexibility usually matter far more once a driver enters the industry full-time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do Missouri CDL schools usually help students find jobs after graduation?

Many schools maintain relationships with regional and national carriers, although placement support and recruiter access vary by program.

Can financial aid be used for CDL training in Missouri?

Some community colleges and approved training providers offer financial aid options, workforce grants, veteran benefits, or payment plans for qualified students.

Should students learn on automatic or manual transmission trucks?

Some carriers now operate mostly automatic equipment, but manual transmission training can still create broader job flexibility after graduation.

What endorsements are worth considering during CDL school?

Tankers, doubles/triples, passenger, and hazardous materials endorsements can create access to additional job opportunities, depending on the type of freight a driver wants to haul.

Do all Missouri CDL schools train for over-the-road trucking jobs?

No. Some programs focus more heavily on regional freight, local delivery operations, passenger transportation, or carrier-specific hiring pipelines.

Missouri continues attracting new CDL students because its freight network connects multiple major shipping regions across the country. For people entering trucking for the first time, choosing the right school can heavily influence both early job opportunities and long-term career flexibility.

The Truck Drivers USA editorial team creates practical, driver-focused content covering industry topics, job trends, and real-world decisions that impact drivers at every stage of their careers. Each article is written to provide clear, accurate information that drivers can use.

Last updated: May 19, 2026

The post CDL Training Schools in Missouri and What New Drivers Should Compare Before Enrolling appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

The process itself is straightforward. Under standards set by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, the test is split into three parts: pre-trip inspection, control skills, and the road test. Each section builds on the last, so how you start often affects how the rest of the test goes.

What the CDL skills test includes

The pre-trip inspection is the starting point. You are expected to move through the truck in a clear pattern and explain what you are checking. This includes brakes, tires, lights, suspension, and steering components. Missing items or failing to explain them clearly can lead to lost points.

After that, the test moves into control skills. This section focuses on backing and positioning. Straight line backing, offset backing, and parallel parking are common setups. The goal is to keep the truck under control and in position rather than finishing quickly.

The final section is the road test. This evaluates how you handle real traffic. You will be graded on stops, lane position, turns, and awareness of what is around the truck.

Where most test attempts break down

Most issues start small and carry forward. During the pre-trip, drivers move too fast and leave out parts of the inspection. In the backing section, problems come from trying to fix a poor setup without resetting. On the road, mistakes show up as rushed stops or poor positioning through turns.

These patterns usually come from breaking routine under pressure.

How to stay consistent from start to finish

Treat each section as part of the same process instead of separate tasks. Running the same inspection pattern every time, taking the time to reset during backing, and keeping a steady pace on the road all come back to consistency.

Drivers who pass on the first attempt are not doing anything different on test day. They are repeating what they practiced without changing their pace.

Frequently asked questions

Q: Do you have to bring your own truck for the CDL skills test?
In most cases, yes. The vehicle must match the class of license you are testing for and meet inspection standards.

Q: What happens if the test is stopped early?
The examiner can end the test if a major safety issue occurs. You may need to reschedule and retake the failed section.

Q: Are examiners allowed to give hints during the test?
No. Examiners will give instructions, but cannot coach or correct mistakes during the test.

Q: Does the testing location affect the difficulty?
Yes. Some locations have tighter backing areas or heavier traffic routes, which can make certain sections more challenging.

Q: Can weather affect your CDL skills test?
Yes. Rain, wind, or poor visibility can impact control and stopping distance, which makes staying consistent even more important.

Passing the CDL skills test on your first attempt is about repeating the same process from start to finish. Staying consistent through each section keeps small mistakes from turning into larger ones and gives you the best chance to complete the test without needing a second attempt.

The Truck Drivers USA editorial team creates practical, driver-focused content covering industry topics, job trends, and real-world decisions that impact drivers at every stage of their careers. Each article is written to provide clear, accurate information that drivers can use.

Last updated: April 30, 2026

The post How to Pass the CDL Skills Test on Your First Attempt appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

“It’s really interesting, because I actually started my own medical transcription company when I was 21, and I did that for about six years,” Cuellar said. “Part of my job was to train people how to do medical transcription.”

That background shaped how the program developed. What started as a training business outside trucking eventually expanded into CDL programs as demand grew.

“I started exploring (the options), and in 2003 we implemented our very first CDL training program,” she said.

How does this CDL program differ from standard truck driver training?

MT Training Center offers multiple training paths instead of a single program, allowing drivers to choose based on experience level and career goals. Some students enter with a commercial learner’s permit and only need drive time, while others start from the beginning and complete a full training program. The school also offers both Class A and Class B CDL pathways, which support drivers targeting over-the-road work as well as local or passenger-focused roles.

“(I want to) meet the students where they are and help with their specific needs,” Cuellar said.

All program paths lead to a CDL, but the structure allows drivers to avoid repeating steps they do not need.

How much does CDL training cost, and how do drivers afford it?

A standard six-week CDL program costs around $6,500, which can be a barrier for many drivers entering the industry.

“With cash-based programs, a regular six-week CDL training program is about $6,500. It can be hard to come up with that up front. People don’t have that kind of money,” Cuellar said.

To address that, the program offers financial aid options such as Pell Grants and includes an advanced training track focused on long-term earning potential.

“We teach entrepreneurship, how to obtain your own authority and business planning all within this program while they’re also obtaining their CDL — and it’s federally approved,” she said.

This approach gives drivers the option to move into company roles or pursue owner-operator opportunities after training.

Why does this program focus on second-chance opportunities?

Many students entering the program have limited access to traditional employment due to their records or financial setbacks.

“The greater majority of our students… have been previously incarcerated,” Cuellar said. “I feel like it’s a population that has kind of been turned away by society.”

MT Training Center accepts students with backgrounds that other schools may reject, creating a pathway into trucking for drivers who might otherwise be excluded.

“Our CDL program is background-friendly,” she said.

That access creates opportunities for long-term income and stability in an industry that continues to need qualified drivers.

What kind of support do drivers receive during training?

Support at the MT Training Center extends beyond classroom instruction, especially for drivers facing financial pressure while completing the program.

“We decided to establish a food pantry to assist the students,” Cuellar said. “They basically can go there and get groceries every single week…”

The program also helps students find part-time work while training and provides resources that make it easier to complete the program without dropping out.

What happens after drivers complete the program?

Career support continues after graduation, which is not standard across all CDL schools.

“We help them with resume-writing and interviewing skills, and we start giving them job leads,” Cuellar said. “We also have employers that come here on-site.”

The program also offers long-term placement support.

“We also have lifetime placement… they come right back to us… and we help them again and again and again,” she said.

This gives drivers continued access to job opportunities as their careers change over time.

What long-term results can CDL training create for drivers?

The long-term impact of CDL training often shows up years after the program is completed.

“Last month I had my very first CDL student from 2003 come and visit… he said thank you for ‘basically saving me,’” Cuellar said.

That driver had served 12 years in prison and was unable to enroll in other programs, but later built and retired from his own logistics company.

“He’s made millions running his own operation. And I just couldn’t be more proud,” she said.

These outcomes show how access to training and support can change long-term earning potential for drivers.

Frequently asked questions

Q: How long does CDL training take?
Most standard CDL programs take about six weeks, while advanced programs can run up to 16 weeks.

Q: How much does CDL training cost?
A typical program costs around $6,500, though financial aid options may reduce that cost.

Q: Can drivers with a criminal record get CDL training?
Some programs are background-friendly and accept drivers with prior convictions.

Q: Does CDL training help drivers become owner-operators?
Some advanced programs include business training that prepares drivers to run their own operation.

Q: Do CDL schools help drivers find jobs?
Many programs offer job placement support, and some provide long-term assistance even after graduation.

CDL training can do more than help drivers earn a license. Programs that combine flexible training paths, financial support, and long-term placement assistance create opportunities for drivers to build stable careers and move into higher earning roles over time.

The Truck Drivers USA editorial team creates practical, driver-focused content covering industry topics, job trends, and real-world decisions that impact drivers at every stage of their careers. Each article is written to provide clear, accurate information that drivers can use.

Last Updated: April 22, 2026

Source: The Trucker

The post How One CDL Training Program Is Creating Real Career Paths for Drivers Who Need a Second Start appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

The event is designed to ensure that the tools used to prepare students are not only available, but implemented the right way, from day one through program completion.

From a Single Program to a National Framework

The trucking program at Patterson High School became the starting point for a much greater effort. As the program evolved, a key question emerged: how could its structure and success be shared in a way that other schools could realistically follow?

The answer became a comprehensive curriculum guide.

Three years ago, NGT secured grant funding, supported in part by the Knorr-Bremse Group and the PepsiCo Foundation. Working alongside the Education Development Center, the association developed a free, turnkey curriculum designed to support both new and experienced instructors.

The guide laid out an entire program framework from start to finish, offering schools a tangible roadmap instead of isolated lesson ideas.

Why the Guide Alone Was Not Enough

Providing a curriculum without instruction on how to use it created another challenge.

“We see the curriculum guide in the same way we see giving a new driver information on how to drive a truck: A little information can be deadly if not fully understood and mastered before going out onto the road.”

Leaving implementation open to interpretation would have undermined the goal. That realization led directly to the creation of Train the Trainer.

Inside the Train the Trainer Experience

Launched alongside the curriculum guide, Train the Trainer is a two-day, in-person event held annually at Patterson High School. The focus is not just on what to teach, but how to teach it.

Participants work through the curriculum section by section, gaining hands-on exposure to program components such as simulator instruction, distracted driving demonstrations, and DUI awareness exercises using golf carts. They also have opportunities to speak directly with program graduates, offering real world perspective on how the training translates beyond the classroom.

Equally important is the network that forms during the event. Educators arrive from across the country, creating connections that often continue long after the training ends. Those relationships provide ongoing support, idea sharing, and reassurance for those building or expanding programs.

This year’s Train the Trainer event will be held June 1 to 2, 2026, in Patterson, California. Registration is available online at nextgentrucking.org/train-the-trainer.

Lessons That Reshaped the Program

The first year Train the Trainer was offered revealed an unexpected gap.

“I thought we were going to be teaching truck driving. I didn’t know we also had to teach proper lifting techniques, health and nutrition, leadership development, human trafficking, and so on.”

That moment made it clear that even motivated instructors can feel unprepared when asked to teach outside their prior experience. Confidence does not come automatically with a curriculum. It must be built intentionally.

The solution was individualized support.

The NGT Accelerate Training Program

To meet that need, NGT created the Accelerate Training Program, a multi-day training, coaching, and mentoring experience delivered onsite at participating facilities. The goal is to ensure programs are positioned for success from the first day instruction begins.

The Accelerate program includes, but is not limited to:

• Classroom setup focused on engagement and professionalism
• Instructor evaluations to identify strengths and improvement areas
• Community building strategies for the classroom
• Full implementation guidance for the NGT curriculum
• In-depth instruction across required and supplemental subject areas
• Setup and maintenance support for the FMCSA Training Provider Registry
• Industry partnership development
• Simulator integration strategies
• Guest speaker and field trip planning
• Short-term and long-term lesson planning
• Career fair development
• Demonstration lessons and observational assessments

Nominal fees apply. Additional information and scheduling details are available by contacting info@nextgentrucking.org.

Source: The Trucker

The post NGT’s Train the Trainer Event Builds Stronger Foundations for CDL Education appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

Governor Greg Abbott says the investment is part of a long-term plan to keep Texas’s economy strong while creating better-paying jobs for skilled workers.

“I thank the Texas Workforce Commission and our education partners for training the next generation of hardworking Texans to be part of the better job and bigger paycheck opportunities that we provide in our great state,” Abbott said. “As our economy grows, Texas will continue to invest in the future of our workforce.”

A Big Boost for Trucking Schools

Out of the total $14 million in grants, two major awards totaling $273,433 will fund CDL training for new truck drivers.
• Dallas College will receive $164,350 to train 65 students.
• Laredo College will receive $109,083 to train 80 students.

At Laredo College, the Transportation Training Center is already gearing up for recruits. Its location near the Port of Laredo, one of the busiest land ports in North America, gives graduates immediate access to job opportunities in cross-border freight and logistics. Every day, about 14,000 commercial trucks pass through the Laredo border, and local employers are always looking for new drivers.

Texas: A Leader in Trucking Employment

Texas has long been a powerhouse in the trucking world. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2023), the state leads the nation in heavy-duty truck driver employment with 212,770 drivers earning an average annual wage of $54,550.

Two Texas metro areas also rank among the top five in the U.S. for the highest number of heavy-duty truck drivers:
• Dallas Fort Worth Arlington: 47,590 drivers (3rd place nationwide)
• Houston, The Woodlands, Sugar Land: 47,490 drivers (5th place nationwide)

For anyone looking to start a trucking career, those stats show just how much opportunity there is within the state’s borders.

Building Stronger Career Pathways

The training money comes from the Jobs & Education for Texans (JET) program, a long-running state effort that helps schools develop hands-on career training for high-demand industries.

While a portion of the funding focuses on CDL programs, other grants will go toward automotive technician training. For example:
• Austin Community College received $331,387 to train 50 students.
• South Texas Independent School District in Mercedes received $304,864 to train 12 students.
• Mineola ISD, east of Dallas, received $274,989 to train 165 students.

The JET grants cover the costs of equipment, classroom upgrades, and training materials, ensuring students are learning on modern rigs and tools that reflect what they’ll use on the job.

A Push for Skilled, Job-Ready Texans

“Through initiatives like the JET grant program, we are preparing our workforce to pioneer innovations and thrive on the cutting edge of industry,” said Joe Esparza, chairman of the Texas Workforce Commission. “These grants strategically target high-growth industries, ensuring workers can find meaningful career opportunities while strengthening Texas’s reputation as the best state for doing business.”

For current and aspiring truck drivers, this is a clear sign that Texas is betting big on trucking, not just to fill jobs but to fuel the state’s economy for years to come.

Source: Transport Topics

The post Texas Invests in Training the Next Generation of Heavy-Duty Truck Drivers appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

First Things First: Check Your Eligibility

You have to be at least 18 years old if you want to drive commercial vehicles in Minnesota. If you plan to drive across state lines or haul hazardous materials, you need to be 21. Also, you must hold a valid Minnesota Class D driver’s license right now. You’ll need proof that you legally live in the U.S. and in Minnesota, so gather documents like your passport or birth certificate and a utility bill or lease agreement for residency. Another must-have is passing a DOT medical exam to prove you’re physically fit to drive big rigs.

Start with a Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP)

Before you hit the road solo, get a CLP. It’s like your practice permit. To get one, you’ll take written tests that cover the basics of truck driving and any extra endorsements you want, such as air brakes or hauling hazardous materials. Study the Minnesota CDL Manual; it’s your bible for the written tests. Good news: Twin Cities DMV offices allow walk-ins for these exams, so no need to stress over appointments. Your permit lasts six months. Use this time to build your driving skills under supervision.

Complete Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT)

This training is federally required. It combines classroom learning with real driving practice, all with instructors from certified schools approved by the government. You’ll get hands-on experience with the kind of trucks and cargo you’ll handle on the job. Once you finish ELDT, you’ll be ready to take the real skills test.

Pass Your CDL Skills Test

The skills test has three parts: checking your knowledge of pre-trip truck inspections, showing safe control over the vehicle in various maneuvers, and passing a road driving test. Make sure to bring your CLP, your medical certificate, proof of training, and your ID to the Minnesota Department of Vehicle Services. Passing this test means you’re officially licensed to drive commercial vehicles.

Keep Your License Current

Minnesota CDLs must be renewed every four years. When renewal time comes, be ready to provide updated medical certificates and proof of residency. Staying on top of these keeps you on the road and out of trouble.

Quick Tips for Success

• Study the Minnesota CDL Manual daily until you’re confident.
• Take free online practice tests to get comfortable with exam questions.
• Organize all your paperwork early to avoid last-minute scrambles.
• Visit local DMV offices in the Twin Cities, where walk-ins are welcome.
• Don’t rush; it’s better to thoroughly understand the material than guess and fail.

Getting your CDL in the Twin Cities might feel like a mountain to climb, but with clear steps and some focus, it’s doable. You could be hauling freight and earning in no time.

If you’re looking for CDL-friendly jobs to get started soon, check out open positions on TruckDriversUSA.

The post How to Get a CDL in the Twin Cities: Your Clear Path to Becoming a Truck Driver appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.