Truck Driver Training

The Truck Driver Training Program is a no-cost non-credit program provided through Skills for Success that prepares individuals for employment as professional truck drivers. This short-term training program is designed to prepare students to enter the truck driving industry.
 

The Behind-the-Wheel Training includes instruction in operating diesel-powered tractor-trailer rigs, identifying common vehicle components, defensive driving skills, actual driving on rural, urban, and interstate highways, handling cargo, backing and maneuvering tractor-trailers, documentation and verification of loads and hours of service, and the performance of vehicle inspections.

The basic goals of the truck driver training program include:

  • Personal safety (during training activities);
  • Learning how to drive safely (avoiding accidents);
  • Learning how to drive legally (how to comply with Motor Carrier laws and regulations);
  • Learning how to drive efficiently (how to get maximum fuel mileage and avoid excess wear and  tear on vehicle parts);
  • Preparation for the Alabama CDL skills test (pre-trip, basic control, road test); and
  • Preparation for the workplace (employment in the field).

Admission Requirements:  

Students must be 18 or older and legal residents of Alabama or employed in Alabama to qualify for this free training. There are two parts to this training, a digital theory course provided through Canvas and a hands-on lab scheduled once the theory class has been completed. Our program is provided on a first-come-first-serve basis, so the sooner you complete the below requirements, the sooner we’re able to place you in an in-person lab. Once registered, you will receive an email inviting you to join a Canvas course. This course satisfies the required Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT). Canvas is where you'll complete the theory portion of your training. Once you complete this, we will schedule you for the behind-the-wheel training. Please let me know if you need any help getting started. 

Before you can begin behind-the wheel-training you must complete the ELDT (Online theory through Canvas) and email copies of the following documents to: tnelson@suscc.edu

IMPORTANT: Students will not be considered or planned for behind-the-wheel training until all of those documents have been received.

Behind-the-wheel training is Monday-Friday 7:00 AM CST until 4 PM CST daily but typically releases around noon on Fridays only. You’ll need to make sure you make arrangements to be available during the lab time or you could be dropped from the course.

Once you have been registered for behind-the-wheel training, you will be required to provide a DOT drug screen and your Motor Vehicle Report (MVR). (You can purchase your driver’s record online). These documents expire after 30 days, so it is important to get them 2 weeks before the start of class. Do not get these two items before you have been given a behind-the-wheel class start date. You cannot begin behind-the-wheel classes if your documents expire before classes begin.

Job Placement Assistance:  

Recruiters from various trucking companies visit classes to provide information regarding their companies and offer applications to students.  The instructors will also provide assistance with the application process.

Refresher Training: 

For those individuals who have obtained their CDL (and license is still active), but need to freshen up on their driving skills, refresher training classes are available. Our instructors can assist licensees in the removal of restrictions as well.  These classes are arranged and scheduled by the instructor.  If interested, please call (334) 742-2977.

Contacts:

Dr. Tyler Nelson
Director of Workforce Development
Phone: (334) 745-6437 ext. 5578
Email: tnelson@suscc.edu

Justin Hatch
Tractor-Trailer Truck Driving Instructor
Phone: (334) 745-6437 ext. 5493
Email: jhatch@suscc.edu

Kevin Bauer
Tractor-Trailer Truck Driving Instructor
Phone (334) 745-6437 ext. 5566
Email: kbauer@suscc.edu