Program Tips

Academic Advising & Student Success

Academic advisors assist students with developing academic plans based on their degree evaluations. Their goal is to plan the right pathway to graduation by maximizing students' potential and ensuring success based on the student's previous academic experience, career path, and responsibilities outside of being a student. Student success specialists assist students in overcoming barriers that many students encounter over their academic career. Their goal is to help students become academically successful by assisting with goal setting, interpersonal issues, success plans, and community-based referrals. More information can be found on Commons (Student Services & Support).

Technology Requirements

Students should have access to a computer/device with reliable Wi-Fi at home/off campus.

Program Format/Delivery Methods

Graduates of the program obtain a Class "A" Commercial Driver's License with air brakes. In addition, hazardous materials, doubles/triples, and tanker endorsements can be obtained if written tests are passed at the DMV.

This program offers two options:

• Full-Time/Daytime (10 weeks) – Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday from 7 a.m. - 5 p.m.
• Part-Time Evening/Weekend (16 weeks) – Tuesday & Thursday from 5 - 10 p.m. & Saturday 7 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Course instruction includes a hybrid component which is a combination of face-to-face classroom instruction and online learning. The total training time for either option is 400 hours—about 25% hybrid assignments, 40% range (driving on the track) and the rest is road time.

Graduates of the program obtain a Class 'A' Commercial Driver's License with air brakes.  In addition, doubles/triples, and tanker endorsements can be obtained if written tests are passed at the DMV.

Requirements Needed BEFORE the First Day of Class 

Students are mailed packet with more information before their start date.

• Commercial Driver's License Instructional Permit (CDLI) – Computerized tests are free to take, each test can be taken up to 5 times.  Students will need to pass the following tests at the DMV:
  • General Knowledge
  • Air Brakes
  • Combination Vehicle
• Reminder: students MUST have a valid FedMed card in order to obtain CDL Permit
• Study Resources: Wisconsin Commercial Driver's Manual, CDL Driver's License practice application, or CristCDL.com.

Items to Bring the First Day

• Valid driver's license - students must have possession through the duration of the program
• FedMed Certificate or Card - required for students to obtain their CDL permit and must be current through the duration of the program and any employment following successful completion of program
• Controlled Substance Test – on the first day of class, students will complete a DOT Controlled Substance Test in addition to urinalysis done during the DOT Physical.  A controlled substance test is required for the CDL courses and a negative drug test result is required for class entry. This test is included in the cost of the class and will occur on the first day of class. Students are subject to random controlled substance testing while enrolled in the program at CVTC's expense. Testing positive during the program may jeopardize continuation and graduation in the program.

Additional Program Information

• Students must be 18 years of age or older to start the program on the first day of class.
• Driving violations/history may affect employment opportunities.

Financial Aid and Cost

This program costs approximately $3,000.  Additional items needed at the student's expense include the CDL Permit ($30 at the time the permit is issued) and the DOT Physical ($90-$150 depending on the provider).  This program does not qualify for financial aid, however financial assistance may be available through United Way funding, for more information contact Student Central at (715) 833-6200.

Students with Disabilities

CVTC welcomes individuals with disabilities. We will provide and coordinate reasonable accommodations for all individuals with documented disabilities. Students that might benefit from accommodations during their college experience at CVTC can contact Diversity Resources at 715-833-6234 or diversity@cvtc.edu to determine what accommodations they may be eligible for and what documentation may be required.

Title IX Pregnancy and Postpartum

CVTC does not discriminate against any student on the basis of pregnancy or related conditions and will fully comply with Title IX regulations. Absences due to medical conditions relating to pregnancy and maternity leave will be excused for as long as deemed medically necessary by a student's medical provider, and students will be given the opportunity to make up missed work. Students are encouraged to contact Diversity Resources at 715-833-6234 or diversity@cvtc.edu to set up an appointment as soon as the pregnancy is known.

Last Updated: February 22, 2024 @ 8:19 a.m.