Kickstart your career in the trucking industry with PVAEC’s comprehensive CDL-A training program. This course combines classroom instruction and hands-on driving experience, preparing you for the written and skills tests required for a Class A Commercial Driver’s License (CDL). A Class A CDL allows you to operate various commercial vehicles, including big rigs and tractor-trailers, and is required for vehicles with a Gross Vehicle Weight of 26,001 pounds or more.The program includes instruction on vehicle inspections, air brakes, combination vehicles, and extensive behind-the-wheel practice. Students will spend significant time on the range and on the road, gaining the experience necessary to demonstrate safe driving skills. The course is designed to meet State of Maine standards and industry regulations for classroom and driving instruction.To earn your CDL, students must pass both written tests (general knowledge, air brakes, and combination) and road tests. The course also includes a pre-employment drug test and DOT physical (included with tuition).The program consists of 147 hours of training, with all materials provided. Students are expected to maintain professional conduct and attire at all times.Start Date: Spring 2025 (TBA)For more information or to enroll, please contact PVAEC Academic Coordinator, Eve Salley at 207-341-5370 or email esalley@pvaec.org.

 Class schedule varies. Classes are held on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday evenings, and all day Saturday in March and April. After that, class hours will vary until all road hours are completed. There are 78 classroom hours, 25.5 lab (range) hours and 44 road hours required.