CDL Training in Delaware
Delaware CDL training is a valuable tool for any drivers who are interested in obtaining a commercial driver’s license (CDL). A CDL is needed for a variety of career options, including becoming a commercial truck driver and a school bus driver. Because these occupations require a high level of skill in operating a commercial vehicle, testing must be completed before a CDL is awarded. Participating in a CDL school provides students with hands-on training and important instruction so that students can pass the examinations with ease and get started in their careers.
There are many benefits to enrolling in a CDL course in Delaware. In addition to being more prepared for the exams, many schools provide job placement assistance and financial aid opportunities as well. Enrolling in truck driving school is a very smart move for anyone who wants to obtain their CDL. To learn more about the benefits of these training courses, read the sections below.
What is CDL training in Delaware?
You must enroll in Class A CDL training if you wish to operate all classes of commercial vehicles. Getting your CDL Class A license requires training on all types of commercial vehicles, and often requires a few more hours of instruction time to complete than other types of training.
Ensure that you understand what type of license class you need for your future employment before you enroll in any courses so that you make sure you are properly prepared for the specific testing you must complete.
Class B CDL training is available at certain schools as well.
This type of training will prepare you to obtain a CDL Class B license that allows you to operate straight trucks, box trucks and more. However, you cannot operate any vehicle that includes a towed vehicle.
If you intend to operate a school bus or a truck that transports hazardous waste, you must also obtain specific endorsements on your license as well. Ensure that whatever program you choose has specialized training for these specific endorsements as well.
Is CDL school required in Delaware?
It is highly recommended that you complete CDL classes before you take the exams and obtain your license. However, the State of Delaware does not require you to participate in the classes before you are able to get your CDL.
Therefore, although the course is very beneficial, it is completely optional.
You can always study for the examinations and practice driving without any formal training, but keep in mind that the exams are difficult, and you are more likely to pass them on your first attempt if you completed the course beforehand.
Curriculum of Delaware CDL Classes
The information that you learn in the CDL prep courses varies depending on the specific training program you enroll in.
Regardless of the training you select, you will learn about the commercial motor vehicle laws in Delaware, how to safely operate a variety of vehicles and more.
In-Class Instruction for the CDL Written Test
One big purpose of the training program is to prepare you for the CDL written test that you must take before you can get your CDL in Delaware. Therefore, the in-class portion of the training will likely include the following information:
- Delaware CDL laws and traffic regulations
- Types of commercial vehicles and endorsements
- Handling emergency situations
- Driving and transporting cargo safely
Behind-the-Wheel Instruction for the CDL Driving Test
The behind-the-wheel portion of your CDL school is designed to help you get comfortable operating commercial vehicles and prepare for the CDL driving test that you must pass to get your license. Therefore, the on-the-road portion of the training will likely include instruction on all of the following:
- Internal and external vehicle inspections
- Basic vehicle controls – backing up, parallel parking, docking, etc.
- Basic driving techniques – turns, intersections, lane changes, etc.
How long is CDL training in Delaware?
The specific amount of time that a commercial driving license training course lasts before it is completed varies depending on the program you participate in. For example, the trucking company Smith and Solomon Training Solutions offers a few different training programs, and the hours needed for each program differ.
The CDL A training program is 160 hours while the CDL B training program is 120 hours. This is because the CDL A program is more comprehensive and includes information on driving all commercial vehicles whereas the CDL B program provides instruction on only a few types of vehicles.
You may also find programs that are designed to be quick refreshers on CDL information. It is crucial that you choose whichever option is best for your situation, employment needs and current experience level.
Best CDL Schools Near Me in Delaware
It is important to research the best CDL schools near you before you enroll. Each school has different requirements and training programs available, so you must compare the options that you have in order to pick a school that works best for you.
A few of the highest-rated schools in the Delaware area include the following:
- Smith and Solomon Training Solutions. This company offers a few different training programs so that you can enroll in the course that suits your specific licensing needs, whether you are pursuing a Class A, Class B, or Class B with passenger endorsement license. Also, the company provides continual placement services to help you find a job after you receive your CDL.
- American Driver Training Company, Inc. This school offers part-time ten-week programs that can be taken during the evening, which is perfect for drivers who wish to keep their current day job while training. Also, by enrolling with this company, you are guaranteed to receive approximately 44 hours of behind-the-wheel training and practice so that you complete the course feeling confident in your driving skills.
Benefits of Completing Delaware Truck Driving School
The best CDL jobs get taken quickly by experienced drivers. Therefore, is it important that you are as qualified as possible in order to compete for the best positions. One benefit of enrolling in a truck driving course is that you will often receive CDL job placement assistance.
Also, because of how difficult the CDL exams are, receiving instruction can be very beneficial and can even help you to pass your exams on your first attempt. This can save you a lot of time and effort and help in making the process of getting your CDL much smoother and less stressful.
CDL Training Costs in Delaware
You are responsible for understanding the CDL training cost you must pay before you enroll with a school. The exact amount of tuition varies greatly from company to company and also varies depending on the type of program you enroll in. Therefore, it is important that you contact the school directly to inquire about the tuition and fees you are responsible for.
However, keep in mind that there are quite a few opportunities that you may qualify for to receive company paid CDL training. There are trucking companies that pay for CDL training in Delaware or offer tuition reimbursement, so do your research to see if you can discover employment opportunities that will allow you to receive free, reimbursed or discounted training.
If you are unable to secure paid training through a company, there are still other options available as well. You can look into various financial aid options such as payment plans, grants, loans and more.
How to Self-Prep for Delaware CDL Exams
Studying the CDL handbook is necessary if you decide to prepare yourself for the CDL exams on your own. The Delaware handbook includes multiple “Test Your Knowledge” sections that act as a free CDL practice test.
Read through the handbook thoroughly and answer the practice questions that it provides you with in order to prepare yourself for the exams.
Sources
- State of Delaware Commercial Driver License Manual from dmv.de.gov
- Driver Services Commercial Driver's License (CDL) from dmv.de.gov