Commercial Driving Academy offers Class A CDL Training that guides students from foundational instruction through hands-on, behind-the-wheel experience. The 4-week Class A CDL training program is structured to build practical skills step by step, reinforcing safe operation, vehicle control, and real-world driving scenarios. CDA’s Class A CDL Training meets all Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) requirements, ensuring graduates complete training prepared for CDL testing and recognized by employers nationwide.
CDL A Program Details
CDA has trained thousands of students for commercial driving careers in South Carolina, Georgia, Oklahoma, and Illinois. The Class A CDL training combines classroom instruction on safety regulations, trip planning, and vehicle inspections with hands-on driving practice on training ranges and public roads. Experienced instructors provide practical guidance to prepare students for real-world driving.
Duration: 4 weeks full-time (160 hours)
Schedule: Classes start every Monday. Weeknight classes available at SC and GA campuses
Requirements: High school diploma or GED, age 21 (or 18 for intrastate driving), pass DOT physical exam and drug screen
CDL Exams: Preparation for both written and skills-based tests
See Instructors in Action
Class A CDL Training Schedule
Weeks 1-2: Classroom Instruction
DOT regulations and Hours of Service compliance
Logbook management (traditional and electronic systems)
Pre-trip inspection procedures and safety protocols
The instructors were not just knowledgeable—they were incredibly patient and really took the time to understand my learning style. They made even the most challenging aspects of driving feel manageable. I can’t recommend CDA enough!
Class A CDL Training Cost
Commercial Driving Academy offers Class A CDL training at competitive rates. The program prepares students for trucking jobs after graduation. CDA admissions representatives help students explore payment options including financing plans and carrier-sponsored training.
Eligibility may vary based on campus and program. CDA does not guarantee funding.
A Class A CDL provides the widest range of trucking careers and highest earning potential. The driver shortage means Class A drivers are in high demand:
Wide Career Opportunities: Qualifies drivers to operate tractor-trailers, combination vehicles, and various freight types
High Earning Potential: Access to top salaries in trucking
$57,000+
Median annual pay for heavy truck drivers
$55,000+
First-year earnings with employer partners
$75,000+
Top 10% of pay, depending on carrier and region
Students choose CDA’s Class A CDL training program for:
Experienced Instructors: CDA instructors have more than 65 years of combined CDL experience
FMCSA-Registered Training: CDA instruction meets all ELDT requirements
Lifetime Career Support: CDA provides continued job placement and career assistance after graduation
Flexible Training Options
Team representatives discuss how day and evening programs and extended hours help give working students additional options for attending class or getting time in a truck. CDA VP of Operations Richard Mercorella and school counselors Serge Kasaynchik, and Princess Coleman discuss how students use the “8 to 8” window to build skills on their time.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does Class A CDL training take at CDA?
The Class A CDL training program at Commercial Driving Academy takes four weeks to complete. You’ll learn everything needed to operate large commercial vehicles safely. The program includes classroom instruction and hands-on training with real trucks and trailers.
Can I train while working my current job?
Yes, there are flexible scheduling options. The evening program hours are 4 PM – 8 PM for working students.
What vehicles can I drive with a Class A CDL?
A Class A CDL lets you drive commercial vehicles such as straight trucks, dump trucks, delivery trucks, and city buses. Most importantly, you can drive tractor-trailers, which offer some of the highest-paying jobs in trucking. This opens doors to long-haul trucking and specialized transport work.
How much does CDL training cost?
Training costs vary based on your financial situation and available assistance programs. Many students qualify for financial aid, including grants and payment plans. Veteran Education Benefits are accepted for qualifying veterans. Our financial aid team will help you explore all options to make training affordable.
Will I get a job after training?
The CDA team works with employers actively hiring Class A drivers. They provide job search support, resume help, and interview preparation. Many graduates find positions with major carriers and local companies.
What are the physical requirements for Class A training?
To get your CDL, you must pass a DOT medical exam conducted by a certified examiner listed on the FMCSA National Registry. The exam includes vision (20/40 in each eye), hearing, blood pressure, urinalysis, and a review of your medical history to ensure you can safely operate a commercial vehicle.
What can I earn with a Class A CDL?
Class A drivers have access to the highest earning potential in commercial driving. Starting salaries typically range from $48,000 to $60,000 annually. Experienced drivers can earn $65,000 to $85,000 per year. Owner-operators can potentially earn up to $175,000 annually, depending on their business decisions.
