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 10 hours of “vehicle maneuvers/skills/range” and 10 hours of “road” time.
• Class B CDL students must have a minimum of 15 hours of BTW driving with at least 7 hours on the public road.
• 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 Click HERE and choose Public User and select 1- to obtain my own driving record
o Cost is $7.87; pay online with eCheck, credit card, or debit card
o Print motor vehicle record document and attach to program application
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
Pre-Class Orientation
There may be a mandatory one-hour orientation with the program Director and Lead Instructor approximately 7-10 days before the start of class. Once your application is accepted, you will be informed of the exact date and time.
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 required 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.
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.
Director Ryan Loomis
406-447-6376
E-mail: ryan.loomis@HelenaCollege.edu
