Getting your Commercial Driver's License (CDL) can be a life-changing decision, opening doors to new career opportunities and increased earning potential. At Ivy Tech, we make it easy to obtain your CDL with our comprehensive program that can be completed in just a few short weeks. Here's how you can get your CDL at Ivy Tech in 4 easy steps.
Step 1: Meet the Eligibility Requirements
Before you can enroll in our CDL program, you'll need to meet the eligibility requirements set by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and the State of Indiana. These requirements include:
- Being at least 21 years old (18 years old for intrastate driving)
- Having a valid driver's license
- Passing a physical exam and obtaining a medical certificate
- Passing a background check
- Being a resident of the United States
Additionally, you'll need to obtain a valid Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP) from the Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) before starting our program.
Step 2: Enroll in Our CDL Program
Our CDL program at Ivy Tech is designed to provide you with the knowledge and skills needed to pass the CDL exam and become a successful truck driver. Our program includes:
- Classroom instruction covering topics such as safety regulations, cargo handling, and hours of service
- Behind-the-wheel training in our state-of-the-art trucks
- Practice tests and study materials to help you prepare for the CDL exam
Our program is taught by experienced instructors who are dedicated to helping you succeed. We offer flexible scheduling to fit your needs, including day and evening classes.
Step 3: Complete the Required Training Hours
To obtain your CDL, you'll need to complete a minimum of 160 hours of training, including:
- 40 hours of classroom instruction
- 40 hours of behind-the-wheel training
- 80 hours of lab training
Our program is designed to meet these requirements, and our instructors will work with you to ensure you receive the training you need to pass the CDL exam.
Behind-the-Wheel Training
Our behind-the-wheel training is designed to give you hands-on experience driving a commercial truck. You'll practice driving in a variety of conditions, including urban and rural areas, and you'll learn how to handle different types of cargo.
Step 4: Pass the CDL Exam
The final step in obtaining your CDL is to pass the CDL exam. The exam consists of three parts:
- A written test covering safety regulations and cargo handling
- A pre-trip inspection test to ensure you can identify potential safety hazards
- A skills test to demonstrate your ability to drive a commercial truck safely
Our program is designed to prepare you for the CDL exam, and our instructors will work with you to ensure you're ready to pass.
Gallery of CDL Training Images
What is the cost of the CDL program at Ivy Tech?
+The cost of the CDL program at Ivy Tech varies depending on the location and the type of CDL you're seeking. However, our program is designed to be affordable and competitive with other CDL programs in the state.
How long does it take to complete the CDL program at Ivy Tech?
+The CDL program at Ivy Tech can be completed in as little as 4 weeks. However, the actual completion time may vary depending on your individual progress and the type of CDL you're seeking.
What kind of job opportunities are available to CDL holders?
+CDL holders have a wide range of job opportunities available to them, including truck driving, bus driving, and construction equipment operation. With a CDL, you can work in a variety of industries, including transportation, logistics, and construction.
We hope this article has provided you with the information you need to get started on your path to obtaining a CDL at Ivy Tech. If you have any further questions or would like to learn more about our program, please don't hesitate to contact us.