Helena College is committed to putting quality drivers on the road by providing a comprehensive CDL truck driver training program, using curriculum standards that address skills, theory/knowledge, tasks, and duties that are required by entry-level commercial motor vehicle drivers. This program prepares students to obtain their Class A Manual Transmission Commercial Driver’s License (CDL).
Theory - 90 hours (Includes lab time)
• Basic Operation
• Safe Operating Procedures
• Advanced Operating Practices
• Vehicle Systems and Reporting Malfunctions
• Non-Vehicle Activities
• Log books
• Air Brake Restrictions
Behind The Wheel - 30 Hours
Times/Dates: To be arranged with instructor after successfully passing Learner’s Permit exam
• Class A CDL students must have 30 hours of BTW time in a combination of range and road with a minimum of 15 hours of “vehicle maneuvers/skills/range” and 15 hours of “road” time.
• Endorsements: Other endorsements may be available upon request such as; Doubles/Triples, Tank, and HAZMAT.
Prerequisites
• Valid Montana Class D Driver’s License – manual transmission experience required
• Be at least 18 years-old for intrastate; 21 years-old interstate
• Obtain a DOT Physical through a DOT Certified Medical Examiner ($60-$150)
o Click for a list of local DOT Certified Medical Examiners
o Attach Certified Medical Examiner’s proof of DOT Physical to program application
• Provide documentation of your criminal background check
o Click here to access your Criminal History Online Public Record Search
o under Public Users, click on 'Start Service'
o Cost is $20; pay online with eCheck, credit card, or debit card
o Print background check document and attach to program application
• Have a clean driving record
o Visit https://cars.dojmt.gov/app/_/#0 - under “Manage Driver Record” choose >Purchase a Driver Record
o Choose a Basic Driver Record (does not need to be a certified copy) cost will be $4.12 - $4.22
o Upon payment, you will receive an email with a link to the page where you can download the report
o Attach record to program application
Application & Payment
Applications are to be turned in to the Continuing Education office. ONLY COMPLETED APPLICATIONS WILL BE ACCEPTED. Click here to print application or you may pick up a copy in person at the college: 1115 N. Roberts, Room 113. Once your application has been accepted, you will be asked to make a non-refundable 10% deposit to hold your seat. Payment is due in full no less than 10 calendar days before the start of class. If an employer or another party will be paying your tuition, please provide complete contact informaiton on your application. Once they confirm responsiblity for payment, your seat is secured.
The CDL Program NO LONGER requires you to attend an Orientation Session.
Drug Testing Required
After your application is accepted, you will be required to complete a DOT drug screen at Drug Information Systems, Inc.
• Take the test 3-7 business days before class start.
• Schedule by phone at 406-444-5001 or email dis@mt.net - they often take walk-ins, inquire first.
• Cost is $59, specify that the test is for the Helena College CDL program
• Results will be sent directly to HC Community Education Center
• Once you work as a driver, you will be subject to future random drug testing and testing after most types of accidents. More information on these regulations can be found here: https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/regulations/drug-alcohol-testing/what-tests-are-required-and-when-does-testing-occur
• Failure to submit a clean sample before driving will result in delays in training, re-testing at your expense, and/or removal from the course without possibility of refund.
Additional schedule notes:
Dates listed are for Mon -Thurs evenings. Additional drive time may be required for another week in order to ensure preparedness for final exam.
Need more information?
1115 North Roberts - Room 113
Helena, Montana 59601
Monday - Friday; 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.
406-447-6945
E-mail: CE@HelenaCollege.edu