Commercial Driver's License (CDL) Training Program 

The program is designed for individuals with little or no commercial driving experience.  Whether product or material is manufactured here or overseas, it still needs to be delivered in an efficient and an environmentally friendly way.  This program will address the over-the-road component in an eco-friendly manner as well as loading and unloading materials. A certificate is awarded upon completion. 

The training is held at Joliet Junior College’s Weitendorf Agricultural Education Facility, 17840 Laraway Road, Joliet.  The program can be completed in 4 weeks by attending full time, Monday through Friday 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.  An additional thirty (30) hours of home study is required during the program. 

Students may enroll at any time.  Full time classes may start every two weeks.  Classes may start more frequently based on location and program demand. 

The school works with many companies that will pre-hire students.  Many of these companies also have tuition reimbursement programs.

Highlights

  • Designed for individuals with little or no commercial driving experience.
  • The program includes:  Endorsement preparation, Department of Transportation rules and regulations, log books, map reading, trip planning, and complete yard and road vehicle training.
  • Participants take a Department of Transportation physical and acquire a Commercial Driver’s License Learner’s Permit while preparing to take the State administered Class A Road test.
  • A Certificate is awarded upon successful completion of instruction.
  • Thirty (30) hours of home study is required during the program.
  • Job placement assistance.

Program Entry Requirements

Individuals must meet the Federal Department of Transportation (DOT) physical requirements and have a valid regular driver’s license at time of registration.  A high school diploma or GED is not required.  The program will accept individuals 18 and older, but has limited placement opportunities for those under 21.
It is recommended that individuals obtain a copy of their Motor Vehicle report from the Driver’s License Bureau prior to stating the program.

The following may disqualify individuals:

    • Driving record inconsistent with industry standards for entry level driving positions.
    • Any alcohol-related citation on motor vehicle record in the past five years.
    • Recent felony convictions or criminal background.
    • History of drug or alcohol abuse.
    • History of mental disorder.
    • Failure to pass DOT physical exam.

Classroom (40 Hours)

  • Orientation
  • CDL Permit Study
  • Endorsement Study
  • Job Procurement
  • Log Book, Hours of Service
  • Map Reading, Trip Planning
  • DOT Regulations
  • Hazard Perception
  • Night Operations
  • Extreme Driving Conditions
  • Railroad Crossing Safety
  • Accident Reports
  • Double Trailers

Yard & Road Skills (120 Hours)

  • Pre-trip Inspection
  • Couple/Uncouple
  • Straight Backing
  • 45 Degree Backing
  • 90 Degree Backing
  • Blindside Backing
  • Shifting
  • Double Clutching
  • Turns
  • Hazard Perception
  • Uphill/Downhill
  • Ramps
  • Lane Changes
  • Space Management
  • Secretary of State Class A Skill Test

Truck driving is one of the few occupations where students who complete the training are almost certain to go to work immediately.  Premier CDL Training Services works with many trucking companies that will pre-hire students.  Most students receive several job offers prior to completion of their training.

Class Starts

Full-time day classes every 2 weeks.

Course Fee

The course fee is $3,995.  Check, Money Order, Master Card, Visa will be accepted.  There are no additional charges for books or supplies.

Additional Cost:  The Class A licensing fee is an additional charge of $50-$75.  Also, you are responsible for the drug screening and physical examination, which is an additional $80-95.

Financial Assistance

  • Workforce Investment Act-Contact your local job service office to see if you qualify for Workforce Investment funds

Refund Policy

To receive a refund (less any expense incurred) a student must withdraw, in writing, by the end of the second day of class.

Contact a recruiter to enroll!
(815) 727-0957 or email us at cdlinfo@jjc.edu


 

Media Articles on our CDL Program

February 9, 2010 - Southtown Star:  http://www.southtownstar.com/business/2036725,020910trucker.article

February 8, 2010 - Joliet Herald News:  http://www.suburbanchicagonews.com/heraldnews/news/2034982,4_1_JO08_TRUCKS_S1-100208.article

February 8, 2010 - Bolingbrook Sun:  http://www.suburbanchicagonews.com/bolingbrooksun/business/2034982,4_1_JO08_TRUCKS_S1-100208.article

January 22, 2010 - Bugle Newspaper:  http://www.buglenewspapers.com/view/full_story/5636156/article-Joliet-Junior-College-starts-fast-track-trucking-program