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Determination alone cannot start a career in trucking-it requires proper training to equip you for the road ahead. Be it long-haul or local routes, a suitable CDL program instills in you the knowledge, ability, and confidence to excel.

This step-by-step guide summarizes what to expect from CDL Class A training, CDL Class B training, and, even a refresher CDL course in the Jacksonville, FL area, so you can make an informed decision about the path to follow.

Step 1: Decide Which CDL License You Need

The first step in understanding the difference between Class A and Class B licenses.

• CDL Class A Training – This license prepares aspiring drivers to operate combination vehicles known as tractor-trailer, big-rig, or long-haul trucks. It is widely accepted because it provides interstate privilege and handles heavier load.
• CDL Class B Training – It mainly focuses on single vehicles like box trucks, buses, and dump trucks. This is usually the right choice for people seeking local or regional driving jobs.

Identifying your own career goals, whether you desire to travel for some distance or stay within home turf, will help in selecting the right training program.

Step 2: Meet Eligibility Requirements

There are a few basic qualifications you will need to fulfill before enrollment is initiated. In general, the following qualifications are required:

• At least 18 years of age for intrastate driving, or 21 for interstate driving.
• Possession of a valid driver’s license.
• You must also pass your Department of Transportation physical and drug screening tests. 

Being qualified gives you the assurance that you can begin training immediately without any delays.

Step 3: Begin Classroom Instruction

The journey is established in the classroom, where you study the fundamentals of commercial driving, along with topics such as:

• Federal and state trucking regulations.
• Vehicle systems and inspections.
• Road safety, defensive driving, and hazard awareness.
• Hours-of-service rules and logbook management.
• NCCER curriculum modules that align with industry-recognized safety and operational standards.

This knowledge base is necessary for passing the written knowledge test, and building your confidence before moving on to actual behind-the-wheel practice.

Step 4: Transition to Hands-On Driving

After classroom training comes the behind-the-wheel training. From here, the students practice the following skills:

• Getting control of the vehicle and maneuvering it.
• Reversing, turning, and parking.
• Attaching and detaching trailers (Class A).
• Traffic and highway conditions.

Training occurs in controlled and safe environments before proceeding towards actual road driving.

Step 5: CDL Testing and Licensing

After completing your training, you are eligible to take the CDL skills test conducted by the state. This consists of:

• Pre-trip inspection—demonstrating knowledge of vehicle safety.
• Basic control skills—demonstrating the ability to operate the vehicle.
• Road test—demonstrating the safe operation of the vehicle on public roads.

Once all three are passed, you’ll receive your CDL license and open up all sorts of job opportunities.

Step 6: Consider a CDL Refresher Course

You can decide to enroll in a CDL refresher course in the Jacksonville, FL area if you have been away from driving or maybe uncertain of a few skills. The refresher courses are intended to help drivers regain their confidence and do some practice with an expert overseeing the training while ensuring that they comply with the newest regulations.

Why Choose the Right School?

Choosing a trustworthy truck driving school assures you of comprehensive, well-maintained, and supportive training. It should include, among other things:

• State-licensed programs.
• Experienced instructors.
• Sufficient driving areas and equipment.
• Placement assistance in finding jobs for graduates.

Take the First Step Toward Your Trucking Career

If you are ready to begin, National Training offers everything from Class A CDL training for long haul, Class B CDL training for local routes, and refresher courses for experienced drivers. With 350 acres of private training facilities and many years of experience, National Training is dedicated to assisting students in reaching their career aspirations.

Do not miss the chance. Get in touch with us to learn more about your training programs and sign up. Your journey on the road starts here.