CDL

Truck Driver Training

Designed for individuals with little or no commercial driving experience, the program includes everything you need to receive a Commercial Driver's License.

The program is located at 231 E. Broadway (the Hoover Building) in Bradley.

You will receive a Department of Transportation physical, Commercial Driver's License learner's permit and endorsement preparation, Department of Transportation rules and regulations, log books, instruction in map reading and trip planning, and complete vehicle training to prepare you for an entry-level position in the trucking industry. In addition, the program includes the Illinois Secretary of State administered Class A road test.

The program can be completed in four weeks by attending full-time, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The part-time evening program can be completed in eight weeks, Monday through Friday, 6 to 10 p.m. Each student is required to complete 30 hours of home study during the program.

The KCC Truck Driver Training Program works with many trucking companies that will pre-hire students. The fact is, truck driving is one of the few occupations where students who complete training are almost certain to go to work immediately. Most students receive several job offers prior to completion of their program.

Students may register at any time. Full-time programs start every month. Part-time programs start every eight to 10 weeks. Training is scheduled around holidays and interruptions caused by weather or other unforeseen circumstances.

Course Outline

CLASSROOM 40 HOURS

• Orientation
• CDL permit study
• Endorsement study
• Job procurement
• Log book, hours of service
• Map reading, trip planning
• DOT regulations
• Hazard perception
• Night operation
• Extreme driving conditions
• Railroad crossing safety
• Accident reports
• Double trailers

YARD AND ROAD SKILLS 120 HOURS

• Pre-trip inspection
• Couple-uncouple
• Straight backing
• 45 degree backing
• 90 degree backing
• Parallel parking
• Blindside backing
• Serpentine backing
• Shifting
• Double clutching
• Turns
• Hazard perception
• Uphill/downhill
• Ramps
• Lane changes
• Space management
• Secretary of State Class A Skills Test

Program Entry Requirements

A high school diploma or GED is not required. Individuals must be able to read and write the English language, be over 21, be able to meet the Federal Department of Transportation (DOT) physical requirements, and have a valid driver's license at the time of registration. The program may train individuals 18 and over, but has limited job placement assistance for individuals under the age of 21. Students are required to fill out job applications.

The following may disqualify individuals from entering the truck driving program:

1. Driving record inconsistent with industry
2. Any alcohol-related violations or motor vehicle record in the past three years
3. Recent felony convictions or criminal background
4. History of drug or alcohol abuse
5. History of mental disorder
6. Permanent disability or physical limitations

It is recommended that individuals obtain a copy of their Motor Vehicle Report from the Secretary of State's Office (Drivers License Bureau) prior to starting the program.

Course Fee

160-hour tractor/trailer driver training: $3,500

There are no additional charges for books or supplies. The Illinois Class A licensing fee is an additional charge of $50 to $60 depending upon endorsements chosen.

Payment Methods

• Personal financing such as your own bank, loans from family, loans from life insurance, or refinancing an existing loan
• PLATO -- A private bank that specializes in credit-based educational loans
• Mastercardâ, VISAâ or Discoverâ
• WIA -- Contact our local IETC office to see if you qualify for WIA (Workforce Investment Act) funds
• G.I. Bill

Refund Policy

Withdrawal with refund (less any expenses incurred) must occur by the end of the second day the class meets.

Starting Dates

New classes starting every three weeks.

For additional information or to register, call Tom Janusz at (815) 932-0211 or e-mail cdl@kcc.edu.