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623-207-1231contact@tds-americacdl.comPhoenix Range: 325 S 31st Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85009Avondale Office: 919 N Dysart Rd, Avondale, AZ 85323

Class A CDL Training

Start with no experience and finish with an unrestricted Class A CDL. Theory, range, and road — four students to one instructor, on manual transmissions, with your state test taken right at our facility.

Who this is for

Anyone starting from zero. No commercial driving experience is required — this program takes you from your commercial learner permit through the state skills test.

What you need to start

  • Federal law requires you to be 21 years of age to drive interstate; a pre-hire is required for anyone under 21
  • An active US driver license held for at least one year, to be eligible for a commercial learner permit
  • Able to read, speak, and understand enough English to safely operate a commercial vehicle
  • A DOT medical certificate and DOT drug screen

How the weeks run

  1. Week 1 — theory. 40 hours of ELDT theory, hybrid: online at your own pace or in the classroom. All theory must be completed and passed before behind-the-wheel begins. A dedicated pre-trip class preps you for your first day on the range.
  2. Week 2 — range. Pre-trip inspection daily, straight-line, offset, parallel and bobtail backing, plus road work. Pre-trip and backing tests at the end of the week.
  3. Week 3 — road and testing. Continued backing and road progression, with state testing at the end of the week.
  4. Week 4 — optional, depending on testing and whether you need extra time.

How you are graded

Skills are scored on a five-point proficiency scale, and every score must be a 3 (minimal proficiency) or higher before you can test. Graduation requires 80% or better on both score and attendance in theory and behind the wheel, a passed CDL test, a committed pre-hire, and all financial obligations satisfied.

Already done your theory elsewhere?

Our behind-the-wheel-only Class A program ($3,972) covers up to 120 hours of range and road training without the classroom theory component. The state test is included.

Common questions

How long does the Class A CDL program take?

Most students finish in three to four weeks. Week 1 is 40 hours of theory (hybrid — online at your own pace or in the classroom). Weeks 2 and 3 are range and road work, with testing at the end of week 3. Week 4 is available if you need more time.

Do I need any experience to start?

No. The Class A CDL program is built for people with no commercial driving experience. You need an active US driver license held for at least one year, and you must be able to read, speak, and understand enough English to safely operate a commercial vehicle.

How old do I have to be?

Federal law requires you to be 21 years of age to drive interstate. Applicants under 21 need a pre-hire from an employer before enrolling.

Will I train on a manual or an automatic?

Manual. You graduate with an unrestricted Class A, which qualifies you for the widest pool of jobs. Many schools train only on automatics, which puts an E restriction on your licence.

Is the state CDL test included?

Yes. The Class A CDL program includes the state test. Testing is done in-house with certified third-party testers.

What are the class schedules?

Theory runs Monday through Thursday 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM and Friday 8:00 AM to 2:30 PM, or online at your own pace. Behind-the-wheel runs 5:00 AM to 1:30 PM and 3:30 PM to 12:00 AM Monday through Friday. Weekend training runs 6:00 AM to 4:30 PM.

See full pricing or browse all training programs.