Aug 24, 2025  
Workforce Training Programs 
    
Workforce Training Programs

Class A CDL Course


Return to {$returnto_text} Return to: Programs by Department

Our Class A CDL training course prepares students to safely and confidently operate semi-trailers through a comprehensive, four-week hybrid format. With expert instructors, state-of-the-art simulators, and hands-on driving experience, you’ll gain the practical skills and knowledge required to pass the DOT exam and begin your professional driving career.

Award Type:


Certificate of Completion from Iowa Western Community College & Commercial Driver’s License from the American Association of Motor Vehicles Administration (AAMVA)

Learning Outcomes:


  • Online Entry-Level Driver Theory (ELDT): Study essential regulations and driving principles at your own pace.
  • Hands-On Driving Training: Master backing, turning, and on-road driving in both rural and suburban environments.
  • State-of-the-Art Simulators: Build confidence in a safe, virtual environment using JJ Keller’s industry-recognized curriculum.
  • CDL Testing On-Site: Complete your DOT skills exam with an Iowa DOT-certified examiner at the IWCC training site.

Educational Objectives:


  • Academic: Understand federal and state CDL regulations, pre-trip inspection procedures, vehicle control, and safety awareness.
  • Professional: Prepare students for a career as an entry-level commercial driver.
  • Vocational: Develop skills in combination vehicle operation, road navigation, and safety compliance to meet FMCSA standards.

Tuition:


$4,700 (includes use of IWCC vehicles, DOT examination, and IWCC Certificate of Completion)

Length of Course:


160 Contact Hours & hybrid

Course Outline:


Week 1 - Focus: Theory and Simulators

  • ELDT Theory (JJ Keller Curriculum) - pre-trip inspections, controls, shifting
  • Simulator Training - basic vehicle handling and inspections
  • Range and road driving (automatic/manual transmission)

Week 2 - Focus: Backing & Pre-Trip Inspections

  • Range: pre-trip and straight-line backing
  • Range: offset backing, alley dock + road driving

Week 3 - Focus: Advanced Range and Road Training

  • Backing maneuvers
  • Rural and suburban road driving
  • Turns, lane changes, shifting skills.

Week 4 - Focus: Road Training & DOT Test Preparation

  •  Highway driving, hazard awareness
  •  Advanced maneuvers and mock exams
  •  Final driving evaluations and inspection review

Admission Requirements:


  1. Obtain a CLP (Commercial Learner’s Permit): Available at the DMV for $12.
  2. Register with the FMCSA Drug & Alcohol Clearinghouse: clearinghouse.fmcsa.dot.gov
  3. DOT Physical Exam: Must be from a certified physician - Find one here
  4. Create a Login.gov Account: login.gov
  5. Register as a Student in the FMCSA Clearinghouse: clearinghouse.fmcsa.dot.gov/Register

Attendance Requirements:


Attendance is mandatory but flexible for all sessions.
Students must pass all required skill evaluations and achieve at least 80% on the final ELDT theory exam to advance to range/road training.

Instructor Qualification:


Instructor is registered, certified, or licensed in the occupational area in which the state requires registration, certification or licensure for the occupational area in which the instructor is teaching.

Note:


Students will receive their official CDL from the Department of Motor Vehicles upon successfully passing the DOT exam.

Return to {$returnto_text} Return to: Programs by Department