Commercial Drivers License   

If you currently hold a Class B CDL and are looking to upgrade to a Class A license, this program will provide you with all of the Federally mandated training to become a fully licensed driver. Obtaining a Class A CDL requires a certified provider to attest that you have completed three main components -  ELDT (entry-level driver training) which covers classroom or online-based knowledge, Range or Skill Driving, and Public Road behind-the-wheel proficiency. This program enables you to complete all of the training in a timely and cost-effective manner. This program is recommended for those who have held a Class B license for a minimum of one year.

In order to be eligible for the in-person skills and driving portion, you must pass the (included) online classroom ELDT and obtain your CDL Class A Learner's Permit from the Montana Motor Vehicle Division before your first scheduled drive. The online portion covers approximately 25 hours of material, but may take individuals more or less time to complete, depending on previous knowledge and experience. Appointment wait times for the permit test vary by station location, and may be up to week or more. You must successfully pass three portions of the written permit test: General Knowledge, Air Brakes, and Combination Vehicle. You must hold your Permit at least 14 days before you are allowed to take the practical exam.

Class will start with a brief introduction and review of your current knowledge and orientation to your class vehicle. The instructor will provide a schedule for available drive times, which you will complete with one other student. You will have the opportunity to complete four 4-hour sessions over the course of two weeks. During your time spent out of the vehicle, it is expected that you will review material already covered and prepare for your upcoming test. Each driver will spend time both driving and observing to enhance the learning experience. Open road training will include in-town and highway driving.

After the class, you can choose to take your pre-trip, skills, and drive exam with our truck (at no extra cost!) or in your own truck, if you have one.

Includes Pre-Trip, Skills and Drive Test in YOUR OWN VEHICLE. We can test you in any Class A vehicle, or a class B - with the EXCEPTION of a school bus or other passenger bus.

In order to test, you must hold a Montana Commercial Driver’s License Learner’s Permit for minimum 14 days.

Includes Pre-Trip, Skills, and Drive Test in a VEHICLE SUPPLIED BY Helena College.

In order to test, you must hold a Montana Commercial Driver's License Learner's Permit for minimum 14 days. In order to test using our vehicle, you must not have Class A or Airbrake Restrictions on your permit.

Our Rental Vehicle Specifications: We provide a 1997 Freightliner FL120 Conventional Tractor with a 2406E Caterpiller engine. No Jake Brake - air brakes. 10-speed manual transmission with a sleeper tractor. The attached trailer is a 28-foot dry van. Both are single axle.

This rental fee is not applicable if you are taking the full Class A or UPGRADE classes with us.

This fee is only assessed if you do not pass any portion of the exam and would like to reschedule. If you have already passed your Pre-Trip and Skills exam, but fail the driving portion, you will be required (by law) to wait a minimum of 7 days to re-take the driving portion. Your retake will be scheduled after payment has been received.
**This price only applies to examinees who took their first test with Helena College. Regular full price applies to all who are scheduling with us for the first time.