Go from beginner to road-ready with a focused 160-hour program combining ELDT theory, real-truck range practice, public-road instruction and skills-test preparation.
The Patriot CDL Class A program follows the same path students face in the licensing process: understand the rules, master the vehicle, develop safe control and prepare for the official skills test.
You will learn how to inspect a commercial vehicle, control a tractor-trailer on the range, and make safe decisions in real traffic—all with direct instructor guidance.
Class A generally provides the broadest commercial driving privileges, subject to endorsements and restrictions.
Three connected training pillars take you from classroom knowledge to controlled maneuvers and real-world driving.
Build the knowledge required by the federal Entry-Level Driver Training standard and prepare for safe professional driving.
Develop precise control of a Class A combination vehicle on a closed training range with direct instructor coaching.
Move from the yard to real traffic and practice the decisions professional drivers make on city streets and highways.
Choose a day, evening or weekend schedule with our admissions team.
Finish the required theory curriculum and achieve the required passing score.
Build inspection, backing and road-driving skills with experienced instructors.
Practice pre-trip inspection, basic control and on-road driving.
Use your Class A CDL to pursue local, regional or over-the-road opportunities.
A structured 160-hour plan keeps every week connected to your licensing goal.
Train in professional commercial vehicles—not a simulator or passenger vehicle.
Receive practical coaching from CDL professionals with real road experience.
Day, evening and weekend options help training fit around work and family.
Practice the three parts of the CDL skills test with a clear readiness plan.
Get guidance on next steps and connecting with employers after training.
Most first-time Class A applicants move through these major requirements. Exact state requirements and fees can vary.
Pass the required knowledge exams and obtain your CLP before the skills test.
Complete the applicable DOT physical and maintain the required medical certification.
Complete theory and behind-the-wheel training through a registered training provider.
Pass vehicle inspection, basic control and public-road portions of the state test.
A Class A CDL can generally cover Class B vehicle types when the driver also has any required endorsements and no conflicting restrictions.
A Class A CDL covers combination vehicles with a gross combination weight rating of 26,001 pounds or more when the towed unit exceeds 10,000 pounds. A Class B CDL is generally for a single heavy vehicle and a trailer of 10,000 pounds or less.
The program is designed as a four-week, 160-hour course: 40 hours of ELDT theory followed by 120 hours of hands-on range and public-road training.
Entry-Level Driver Training is the federal training standard for first-time Class A and Class B applicants, certain upgrades, and first-time H, P or S endorsements. Required training must be completed with a provider listed on the FMCSA Training Provider Registry.
Yes. CDL applicants generally need to pass a DOT physical with a certified medical examiner and maintain a valid Medical Examiner’s Certificate for the type of commercial driving they plan to perform.
Patriot CDL offers day, evening and weekend scheduling options. Availability can vary, so contact admissions to confirm the next schedule that fits your needs.
The skills test generally includes a vehicle inspection, basic vehicle-control maneuvers and an on-road driving test. Patriot CDL training addresses all three areas.
Speak with Patriot CDL about the next available schedule, enrollment requirements and payment options.
