Program Overview

Commercial Drivers

Prepare for an entry-level credential and career in the transportation industry.

Career Pathway

Adv. Manufacturing, Skilled Trades, & Transportation

Related Programs

• Compact Diesel Engine Repair
• Heavy Equipment Operator
• Small Engine Repair
• Workforce Development

Program

FastForward Credential Program

Program Information

Commercial Drivers - Class A Tractor Trailer

Skilled drivers are in high demand! Begin your new career supporting the supply chain and have the flexibility to work locally, regionally or nationally. Class A commercial driver’s license (CDL) holders are qualified to operate tractor-trailers, truck and trailer combinations, dump trucks, straight trucks, ready mix trucks, and waste management trucks - essentially any commercial vehicle on the road with exception of passenger vehicles that require a CDL. Training program consists of classroom instruction, equipment and safety checks, manual shifting skills, range practice in various backing maneuvers, and on-the-road driving. Upon successful completion of this course, students with a valid CDL learner’s permit are eligible to sit for the behind-the-wheel road exam for the Commercial Driver’s License-Class A offered by the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).

Contact Hours: 160

Commercial Drivers - Class B Truck

Support local transportation needs in your new career as a driver! Class B commercial driver’s license (CDL) holders are qualified to operate automatic/manual dump trucks, straight trucks, and trucks towing vehicles with GVWR of 10,000 pounds or less. Training program consists of classroom instruction, equipment and safety checks, range practice in various backing maneuvers, and on-the-road driving. Upon successful completion of this course, students with a valid CDL learner’s permit are eligible to sit for the behind-the-wheel road exam for the Commercial Driver’s License-Class B offered by the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).

Contact Hours: 120

Commercial Drivers - Class B Bus

Support local transportation needs in your new career as a driver! Class B/Bus commercial driver’s license (CDL) holders are qualified to operate all automatic transmission Class B vehicles including a bus. Training program consists of classroom instruction, equipment and safety checks, range practice in various backing maneuvers, and on-the-road driving. Upon successful completion of this course, students with a valid CDL learner’s permit are eligible to sit for the behind-the-wheel road exam for the Commercial Driver’s License-Class B/Bus offered by the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).

Contact Hours: 120

CDL Admissions Criteria

• Be at least 18 years of age on the first day of class.
• Meet with a Fast Forward Coach or the Enrollment team for program and funding information.
• Submit all required documents to Workforce Development.
• Provide a copy of a valid driver's license prior to enrollment, and present actual driver's license for inspection at the first class session.
• Complete the enrollment and registration process with Ancora to include the following:
  • Earn and provide a copy of the CDL learner’s permit (obtained from Department of Motor Vehicles)
  • Complete and provide a copy of acceptable Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) physical exam
  • Complete and provide negative urine drug screen results. Note: Drug screen results must be dated no more than 30 calendar days prior to class start date.
• English Language Learners (ELL/ESL): If English is not the first language, prospective students must complete a CASAS assessment with acceptable score prior to program admission. CASAS assessments can be scheduled by emailing at (link sends email) or calling . Include your first and last name, program of interest, and program start date in your email. Assessment should be completed at least one week prior to program start date. CASAS assessment is also recommended, but not required, for prospective students who feel their reading comprehension needs improvement.

Additional Program Costs

• Learner's Permit Fee
• License Testing Convenience Fee

Information Sessions

CDL information sessions are delivered twice a week in the Stultz Center and are held:

• Tuesdays, at 10:30 a.m.
• Wednesdays at 5:30 p.m.

The information sessions offer the opportunity to learn about the program, its requirements and job opportunities. Participants can also complete required paperwork. Those who bring a valid driver's license and income verification to the session (such as taxes or a SNAP card) can receive a funding letter if they qualify for full funding and can be immediately enrolled.