Commercial Driving License Certificate

The Commercial Driving License (CDL) Certificate Program is an intensive, one-quarter program designed to prepare students with the knowledge and skills necessary to qualify for an apprenticeship, transport heavy loads, and operate equipment utilized in the field. This comprehensive program combines classroom instruction, hands-on training, and real-world experience to prepare students for the challenges and responsibilities of operating commercial motor vehicles safely, efficiently, and professionally.

Students enrolled in this program will learn the fundamentals of commercial driving regulations, vehicle operation, safety protocols, and customer service principles. Through a combination of classroom lectures, driving simulations, and behind-the-wheel training with experienced instructors, students will develop the essential competencies required to obtain a CDL and pursue employment opportunities in various sectors of the transportation industry, including long-haul trucking, local delivery services, and specialized freight operations.

Upon completion of the program, graduates will be eligible to obtain a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) and operate any piece of equipment that requires Class A or B driver’s license, or pursue entry-level positions as professional truck drivers with trucking companies, freight carriers, logistics firms, and other transportation providers.

Program length:

1 quarter

Admission Dates:

Fall, Spring, Winter, Summer

Program Outcomes

• Communicate with managers, team leads, dispatchers, customers, and fellow drivers, from diverse backgrounds, cultures, and perspectives in an inclusive multicultural environment.

• Evaluate environmental factors (e.g., traffic conditions, weather patterns, road hazards) and diverse needs and experiences of all road users to make equitable decisions for safety and well-being of everyone on the road.

• Uphold the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSR), Department of Transportation (DOT), and Hazardous Materials regulations, safety protocols, and ethical standards in all aspects of commercial driving operations, proactively addressing issues of discrimination, harassment, and bias to promote an inclusive and respectful working environment.

• Operate various types of commercial vehicles, including Class 3 through 8 vehicles with an emphasis on safety practices, preventive maintenance, and emergency procedures.

Prerequisite Requirements

Prerequisite(s)

Students need to:

1. Be at least 18 years of age when enrolled
2. Possess a valid Washington State driver's license
3. Provide a certified five-year driving abstract from DOL. No DUI, negligent driving, reckless driving, or hit-and-run violations within the past five years, with no more than three moving violations within the past 36 months
4. Complete a DOT physical examination (Form MCSA-5876) from a certified medical examiner
5. Pass a DOT drug screening at an approved testing facility Note: Drug test results are valid for 30 days and may take up to two weeks to process. Request that results be sent directly to Clover Park Technical College. Enrollment will not be finalized until results are received.
6. Provide proof of U.S. citizenship or lawful residency. Students will obtain their Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP) after the first week of class. Required documents to obtain the CLP include a birth certificate or valid U.S. passport and proof of U.S. residency or work authorization. Important Notes: Students under 21 are restricted to intrastate (Washington only) driving Federal law prohibits marijuana use by CDL holders regardless of state law. A positive drug test will prevent enrollment until DOT SAP requirements are met

Program Course List

CDL 170	Introduction to Commercial Driving	5
CDL 175	Vehicle Operations and Control	5
CDL 180	Safety Procedures and Emergency Handling	5
CDL 185	CDL Licensing Preparation	5
CDL 190	Introduction to Truck Maintenance	5
COLL 102	College Success for All	3
Total Credit Hours:		28