Class B CDL
Prepare for a career in commercial driving by earning your Class B Commercial Driver's License (CDL). In this FMCSA-approved Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) program, you'll gain hands-on experience using Kirkwood's commercial vehicles as you prepare for your CDL skills test. After completing the program, you'll be qualified to drive Class B commercial vehicles, including dump trucks and buses, with additional endorsements as applicable.
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Hybrid Learning Format
The program is offered in a hybrid format, allowing you to complete online coursework while building your skills through in-person instruction and hands-on training.
38 hours
of hands-on and classroom instruction
2–3 weeks
A fast track to your new career
4.56 CEUs
earned upon successful completion
Student Eligibility and Pre-Course Requirements
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Students must be at least 18 years of age.
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Applicants 18–21 years old are restricted to intrastate (within state lines) driving only.
Required Documentation
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Class B Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP)
Must be obtained from the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) at least 14 days prior to the class start date. To obtain the permit, students must pass the following DMV exams:
- General Knowledge
- Air Brakes
- Passenger Endorsement
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DOT Long-Form Physical
Must be completed within 10 days prior to the class start date.
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Pre-Employment Drug Test
Must be completed within 10 days prior to the class start date. Required by federal regulations. Random drug testing may be required during the course of the program.
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FMCSA Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse Registration
All students must register themselves as a student/trainee at clearinghouse.fmcsa.dot.gov.
All required documentation must be completed and submitted before the start of the program to ensure eligibility for training.
Program Information
Driving skills and vehicle operation
- Develop essential driving skills required by the trucking industry, including shifting, double-clutching, backing maneuvers, and vehicle control.
- Gain hands-on experience operating commercial vehicles on public streets and highways through applied "touch driving" in real traffic conditions.
Safety and regulations
- Become familiar with safety regulations, industry standards, and required precautions emphasized throughout the training program.
- Identify and understand Department of Transportation (DOT) laws and regulations governing commercial truck and passenger vehicle operations.
Professionalism and industry readiness
- Develop a professional attitude and sense of responsibility expected of commercial drivers, performing job duties in a manner that reflects positively on the occupation.
- Receive a general overview of the transportation and trucking industry, including how it functions and what new drivers can expect when entering the workforce.
Graduates leave the program equipped to earn a Class B CDL, pass required DOT and DMV requirements, and step confidently into entry-level roles across the transportation industry.
✓
Class B Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP)
Must be obtained from the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) at least 14 days prior to the class start date. To obtain the permit, students must pass the following DMV exams:
- General Knowledge
- Air Brakes
- Passenger Endorsement
✓
DOT Long-Form Physical
Must be completed within 10 days prior to the class start date.
✓
Pre-Employment Drug Test
Must be completed within 10 days prior to the class start date. Required by federal regulations. Random drug testing may be required during the course of the program.
✓
FMCSA Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse Registration
All students must register themselves as a student/trainee at clearinghouse.fmcsa.dot.gov.
All required documentation must be completed and submitted before the start of the program to ensure eligibility for training.
80%
or higher
or higher
Theory Requirement
You must earn a minimum score of 80% on the Entry-Level Driver Theory assessment.
3
evaluations
evaluations
Skills Requirement
You must pass all required evaluations, including the pre-trip inspection, skills assessment, and over-the-road driving test.
This course is graded on a pass/fail basis. Both the theory score and all skills evaluations must be successfully completed to pass the course.
Build Real Skills
Develop essential driving skills through classroom instruction and hands-on training, including shifting, backing maneuvers, and vehicle control.
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Pass Your Evaluations
Complete the Entry-Level Driver Theory assessment, pre-trip inspection, skills assessment, and over-the-road driving test.
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Earn Your Credential
Upon successful completion of the course, you'll earn a Class B Commercial Driver's License (CDL) issued by the State of Iowa.
This certification demonstrates your competency to employers and prepares you for entry-level employment in the transportation industry.
What Tuition Covers
- FMCSA Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) online theory coursework
- Required face-to-face behind-the-wheel instruction
Costs You're Responsible For
- DMV fees related to obtaining a CDL learner's permit
- DOT long-form physical examination
- Pre-employment drug testing
- DMV fee to obtain your commercial driver's license upon successful completion
Fees may vary based on location, license renewal status, and health insurance coverage.
“When I hit a rough patch in Anatomy and Physiology, Kirkwood staff helped me find the academic support I needed. I'm determined to bounce back next semester and show Anatomy who's boss! Professors like Bronwyn Stewart, who made me fall in love with writing, have made all the difference in my college experience.”
Thierrina Wolotoh,
Cedar Rapids, Iowa
Tuition Assistance
You may qualify for tuition assistance!
Kirkwood connects students with a variety of funding resources for eligible FastTrack Career Certificate programs. Although not every program qualifies, those that do may be fully covered, up to 100% of your tuition costs.
Request Tuition Assistance
Start Your Journey
Follow these steps to take the next step toward your future.
1
Review Requirements
Start by reviewing the program details, requirements, and expectations on this page. Continue below for exam information, FAQs, and additional resources.
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2
Select a Schedule
Search for the program and browse available sections and start dates to find the schedule that works best for you.
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3
Enroll
Complete your registration to lock in your spot and start your new career journey.
Additional Questions?
Continuing Education Department
Kirkwood Center for Lifelong Learning