Our 12 or 15 Passenger Van Driver Training Course is designed to provide drivers with the essential skills and knowledge to safely operate large passenger vans. This comprehensive program combines both classroom instruction and behind-the-wheel training, ensuring that each participant is well-prepared to handle the unique challenges of driving larger vehicles.
Who should attend? Coaches, instructors, teacher’s aides, athletic directors, or anyone from the UW System who might be transporting college students to and from activities.
Van Driver Training
February 11 | 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.
EC Transportation Education Ctr
A two-part program designed to introduce drivers to the physical and psychological problems of handling a van full of passengers. The van driver will learn the hazards of driving a van and how to avoid…
Just the Facts
Course Length //
6 Hours
Class Size //
5-8 students
Cost //
$99
In part two of this course, during behind-the-wheel training, each student will have a minimum driving time of 30 minutes.
Part 1: In-Classroom Training
Before participating in behind-the-wheel training, students must complete classroom instruction, which includes a test to assess their understanding of the material. The classroom instruction focuses on the specific operational considerations of driving 12 or 15 passenger vans, covering key topics such as:
- Defensive Driving Skills
- Speed Management: 3-second rule, speed illusion
- Extreme Driving Conditions: Ice, snow, rain, wind
- Center of Gravity & Weight Distribution
- Space Management
- Turning Radius, Lane Changes, Parking, and Backing
- Loading & Unloading Procedures: Seatbelt use for all passengers
- Hazard Perception & Emergency Maneuvers
- Skid Control & Recovery Techniques
- Pre-Trip Checks: Tires, lights, seatbelts, mirrors, and more
- Driver & Passenger Safety: Emergency equipment, driver distractions
- Blind Spots, Visibility, and Mirror Usage
- Night Operations & Railroad Crossing Safety
- Vehicle Height Awareness & Speed Sense
- NHTSA Reports: Fatal rollover crash characteristics and rollover prevention strategies
Part 2: Behind-the-Wheel Training
After successfully completing the classroom portion, students will participate in behind-the-wheel training. In a group setting, each student will have at least 30 minutes of driving time in varied traffic situations, gaining hands-on experience with fully loaded vans. The goal is for each student to demonstrate competency in essential van driving skills, including:
- Pre-Driving Checks: Loading, seatbelts, tire inspections, lights, etc.
- Emergency Braking
- Tracking Differences: Turning and backing maneuvers
- Parking & Backing Techniques
- Visibility Challenges: Lane changes, turns, and blind spots
- Vehicle Height Awareness: Handling at highway speeds
Have a 12 or 15 passenger van and want us to train at your location?
Fill out the form, and we’ll be in touch.
Pricing will vary depending on location, travel, and will be quoted at CVTC’s standard contract training rates.
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