Class A CDL Preparatory

This course introduces students to the U.S. Trucking Industry and how it operates. It presents information about the various types of carriers and how they operate within the Department of Transportation regulations. The course will allow the students to gain basic knowledge regarding the control systems of commercial vehicles and know what gauges they should read for safe operation. Also covered is the basic operation of the vehicle, sliding fifth wheel and tandems, coupling and uncoupling, specialized rigs, shifting and the Federal Motor Carriers Safety Administration (FMCSA).

This course will introduce students to the rules of the driving range, basic movements of the vehicle, and how to properly enter and exit the truck. The students will be able to identify and properly operate the various controls of the vehicle, as well as complete a 127-point vehicle inspection of the vehicle. Students will also explore “Life Skills Lessons” with an emphasis on workplace strategies for a successful career. In addition, students will begin “Transportation Industry Awareness Lessons” with a focus on the airbrake system of a tractor trailer.

This course will introduce the students to the straight line and alley dock parking maneuver. Using three basic steps, the students will intentionally maneuver the tractor and trailer in reverse. The students will further enhance mirror usage skills and develop a professional level of competency in the various set up positions and maneuvering techniques (pull ups & steering adjustments. Students will continue to drive on local highways and identify the importance of vehicle size, road signs, traffic controls, road characteristics, uphill and downhill driving, curves, construction zone.