CDL Training Programs in Southern California

Professional Truck Driver & Bus Driver Training at United Truck Driving School

Whether you’re interested in becoming a professional truck driver or bus driver, United Truck Driving School has the training program for you! Looking for the “Best CDL school in southern California”? Our CDL programs offer behind-the-wheel training and classroom instruction to teach you the skills required to prepare you for the California CDL skills test. We’re ready to help you become a professional CDL driver, and we offer a variety of training courses to fit the needs of each of our students.

Interested in a specific program? Skip ahead and check it out!

• Class A CDL Training Program
• Class A + Passenger CDL Training Program
• Class B CDL Training Program
• How Do I Get My CDL?
• How Long Does it Take to Get a CDL?

Class A CDL Training Program

The Class A CDL program prepares our students for entry-level truck driving careers both over-the-road (OTR) and locally. This program is a beginner course for those who have little experience as a truck driver. Students just need to be ready to learn! During truck driver training, students learn and develop the skills necessary to pass the California CDL skills test. They will also be trained and receive endorsements in several areas.

Endorsements Available at United Truck Driving School

• Airbrakes
• Doubles/Triples
• Tanker
• Hazardous Materials (HazMat)

Check Out Our Class A CDL Program

Class A CDL + Passenger Training Program

Are you looking for something a little more flexible than a traditional Class A CDL? We also offer what is considered a Class A CDL + Passenger program. This combines training from both Class A and Class B to prepare students for entry-level positions as professional truck or bus drivers. Our students receive training to earn the same endorsements as they would with their Class A CDL, but also learn the skills of a passenger bus driver or local truck driver. This training provides more job opportunities for our students. After completing the course, students will have the confidence and experience needed to drive both big rigs and passenger buses.

Learn About Our CDL A+ Program

Class B CDL Training Program

Our Class B CDL course is designed as an entry-level course for those who are looking to find a local truck driving or bus driving job. This class helps to prepare students for entry-level employment in several different fields.

What vehicles can I drive with my Class B CDL?

• Passenger Bus Driver
• Tow Trucks
• Dump Trucks
• Delivery Trucks
• Utility Trucks

The bus driver training course offered at United Truck Driving School equips students with the skills to obtain their Class B CDL with endorsements in Hazmat, Tanker, and Passenger.

Explore Our Class B CDL Program

How Do I Get My CDL?

Earning your CDL is the first step toward becoming a professional truck driver. United Truck Driving School is here to share the steps to take to get started. The first question to ask yourself is, “What do I need my CDL for?”

Do I need a CDL?

When considering getting your Commercial Drivers License (CDL), it’s important to know what purpose it serves. Obtaining a CDL allows someone to drive a variety of new vehicles.

Vehicles that you can drive with a CDL

• A single or combination over 26,001 pounds of Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR).
• A vehicle designed to carry 10+ passengers, including the driver
• A 3-axle vehicle over 6,000 pounds or towing a trailer over 10,001 pounds
• Transporting hazardous materials or towing multiple trailers

If you plan to drive these types of vehicles on the road, it’s important to take that first step – getting your permit.

How do I get a Commercial Learner’s Permit (CPL)

Just like with any license, you need to start with your learners permit. In order to get your Commercial Learners Permit, there are a few things to note. In order to obtain your permit, you must be at least 18 years old for any in-state driving. If you’re interested in interstate or HazMat hauling, you must be at least 21. It is also important to have a valid California drivers license.

Once you obtain your learner’s permit, it allows students 180 days to take classes and pass the exam. Once the 180 days has lapsed, you have the opportunity to renew your permit one time.

During this time it’s also important to know that students with commercial learner’s permits are restricted from certain endorsements for the safety of others. During this time, they can test for three separate endorsements.

• Passenger (P)
• Tank Vehicles (N)
• School Buses (S)

Keep in mind that, during this time, students with permits cannot travel with passengers or a full tank until they are fully licensed.

What Documents Do I Need to Get my CDL?

Once you’ve received your learner’s permit, the first document that you’ll need to fill out is your Commercial Drivers License Application, also known as the DL 44C. During this time you’ll provide information to the state to ensure that you’re eligible for your commercial license.

What documentation is required?

• The Applicant’s Full Legal Name
• Proof of U.S. Identity and California Residency
• Social Security Number
• Medical Certificate that is Approved by the Department of Transportation (DOT)

Are there any additional CDL requirements?

In the state of California, students applying to get their CDL must surrender any out-of-state licenses that they currently hold. It’s also important to disclose any traffic convictions that you may have faced.

As we mentioned before you will also have to undergo a physical from a doctor that is approved by the Department of Transportation. If you wish to learn more, check out our blog that outlines the DOT Physical.

How do I Prepare for the CDL Exam?

Once you’ve completed the application process and any CDL training, you’re prepared for the knowledge and skills tests. These tests will include general CDL knowledge, as well as any endorsement-specific tests. You’ll also have to perform a pre-trip inspection, show basic control  of the vehicle, as well as perform an on-road driving test.

Once you’ve shown you’re proficient in these skills, you’ll receive your CDL and can start your career as a commercial driver.

How Long Does it Take to Get Your CDL?

Our CDL courses all require different levels of training, which means the time varies. If you’re looking to enroll in a particular course, check out this table below for more course information.

Is one of these programs calling your name? Let’s talk about how to get you behind the wheel!