About the Program

Richland’s Truck Driver Training Program offers:

  • “Class A” Commercial Driver Training (Tractor Trailer) – for individuals with little or no experience
  • “Class B” Commercial Driver Training (Straight truck) – for individuals with little or no experience
  • Refresher Programs – for individuals that have had or still have a CDL and need training to get back to work
  • Truck Company Customized Training
    • Driver problem areas
    • Log Book Refresher Training
    • Help on backing with proper instruction
    • Proper inspection of vehicles

Career/Technical Education Option

  • Basic Certificate in Transportation (7 hours) – CDL 1000

The Class “A” Program

Day and night classes are offered to gain the class “A” Commercial Driver’s License (CDL). Approved by the Illinois College Board, this course offers seven (7) hours of professional/occupational skill college credits. A certificate will be awarded upon completion.

The program can be completed in four (4) weeks by attending full time, Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The part-time evening program can be completed in eight (8) weeks, Monday through Friday, 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Thirty (30) hours of home study is required during the program.

The Richland Community College truck driver program works with many trucking companies that will pre-hire students. The fact is, truck driving is one of the few occupations where students who complete training are almost certain to go to work immediately. Most students receive several job offers prior to completion of their training. Employment assistance is offered through Richland Community College’s Truck Driver Training.

Students may register at any time. Full-time classes start every month. Part-time classes start periodically. Training is scheduled around holidays and interruptions caused by weather or other unforeseen circumstances.

Highlights of the Class “A” license program

Designed for individuals with little or no commercial driving experience, the program includes:

  • Department of Transportation Physical
  • Department of Transportation rules and regulations
  • Log books and map reading
  • Trip planning
  • Complete vehicle training to prepare you for an entry-level job in the trucking industry.
  • Illinois Secretary of State-administered Class A road test

Program Entry Requirements

A high school diploma or GED is required. Individuals must be able to read and write the English language, be over 21, be able to meet the Federal Department of Transportation (DOT) physical requirements and have a valid regular driver’s license at the time of registration. You should obtain a copy of your Motor Vehicle Record from Secretary of State’s Office (Driver’s License Bureau) prior to starting the program. The program may train individuals 18 and over but has limited job placement assistance for individuals under the age of 21.

Physical Requirements

Must pass a certified Department of Transportation physical and drug screen prior to entering class.

The following may disqualify individuals:

  1. Driving record inconsistent with industry standards for entry-level driving positions.
  2. Any alcohol-related violations on motor vehicle record in the past three years.
  3. Recent felony convictions or criminal background.
  4. History of drug or alcohol abuse.
  5. History of mental disorder.
  6. Permanent disability or physical limitations.

Financing Methods

  • Personal financing such as your own bank, loans from family or refinancing an existing loan.
  • MasterCard, Visa or Discover
  • Workforce Investment Solutions (WIS) – Contact your local job service office to see if you qualify for WIS at (217) 875-8753
  • Department of Rehabilitation – Call (217) 875-8703 for more information.

Refund Policy

Canceled Classes: Richland Community College reserves the right to cancel programming due to insufficient enrollment. Should it become necessary to cancel or reschedule programming, registrants are notified as soon as possible.

The course tuition is non-refundable unless the class has been canceled. Course fees and all other fees are non-refundable after the class begins.

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