The demand for commercial truck drivers in Louisiana offers ample career opportunities for those who want a stable career and enjoy the open road. Anyone that drives commercially must have a valid CDL license. If you are planning to be a commercial truck driver in Louisiana, you’ll have to know how to get a Commercial Driver’s license. At DDA, we can provide the training you’ll need to get your Class A CDL.
Requirements for Getting a CDL License at Diesel Driving Academy
If you are looking to get your CDL at Diesel Driving Academy, you will need to meet some enrollment qualifications. These include:
- Have a current, valid Driver’s License
- Be a minimum of 21 years of age (by the time of graduation)
- Have an acceptable driving record
- Proof of your citizenship such as a birth certificate or certification of naturalization
- Pass the Department of Transportation (DOT) physical and drug screening
- Meet the Department of Transportation (DOT) qualifications for truck operators
If you meet these basic requirements, you will be eligible to attend DDA to complete your CDL training.
What CDL Programs does Diesel Driving Academy Offer?
DDA offers 3 different types of CDL certification programs:
The CDL Prep Course is a 3-week, 136-hour prep course that teaches the basics of the trucking industry. No previous experience driving trucks is necessary to enroll in this course.
Our Basic CDL Driver Training Program is a 4-week, 160-hour program that requires no previous experience to enroll. This program will prepare truck drivers for the entry-level duties of a truck driver. Evening classes are available at our West Monroe campus. The evening program will run 8-weeks and 160 clock hours.
The Advanced CDL Driver Training Program is a 20-week, 600-hour course that gives you the advanced knowledge you need to be a truck driver. There is no experience required to enroll in this course. Upon completion, you will be able to obtain employment in a variety of different lines of work including as a Truck Driver, Line Haul Driver, Owner Operator, Semi-Truck Driver, or Over-the-Road Truck Driver. Evening classes are available at each campus and will run 30-weeks and 600 clock hours.
What To Expect During CDL Training
Diesel Driving Academy’s CDL Prep Course is three weeks and 136 hours of intensive training in and out of the classroom. This is what your course list will look like in your time here:
- Intro to Trucking – a brief introduction of what you will be studying, plus discussions about the trucking industry and DOT qualifications
- Hours of Service/Log Book – going through hours of service regulations, as well as the driver’s daily log and logbook
- Competency Development – studying competency areas for your test at DMV, including air brakes and combination vehicles
- Backing Maneuvers – Basic procedures for operating vehicles and tractor-trailers
- Vehicle Maneuvers – More advances procedures for operating vehicles and tractor-trailers as well as shifting and driving vehicles
- Vehicle Inspection – Methods and documentation for inspections
What is the Cost for CDL School?
Out of pocket costs will vary depending on the program a student enrolls in, and if any financial assistance is used. Diesel Driving Academy offers a variety of programs that may cover some or all training program costs. Don’t let the cost intimidate you. DDA’s Financial Aid staff can help you learn more about what types of assistance are available to you to help make getting your CDL affordable.
How do I Find Work Once I get my CDL?
Diesel Driving Academy provides Job Placement Assistance for all of our current students and graduates. This service is available to former students for the rest of their careers. We have a variety of connections to some of the largest carriers and employers nationwide. In addition to this service, many recruiters visit our campuses to hire highly trained and well-qualified graduates.
What Kind of Benefits Can I Expect as a Truck Driver?
Truck driving is one of the best jobs that doesn’t require a 2-or-4-year college degree. Truck driving is a very hands-on experience that allows drivers to get out on the road and work with their hands. In addition to quality-pay and employment benefits, most truck drivers receive additional benefits including:
- Starting pay at around $45,000+ annually for most OTR positions
- Full healthcare benefits for drivers and their families
- Monthly reimbursement payments for your tuition (usually available to those who sign a 1-year contract with the carrier)
- 401k company matches and full retirement benefits
- Annual paid vacation time
These are just some of the benefits that the truck driving industry offers. Job security is also a huge benefit to this industry. There are currently about 60,000+ driving jobs open in the United States. As consumer demand grows, so will driver opportunities and employment options.