Do I have to attend a commercial driving school to get a CDL?
Yes. As of February 7, 2022, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) enacted the Entry Level Driver Training (ELDT) mandate which requires that any driver seeking to obtain a CDL for the first time must be certified by an approved school listed on the FMCSA Training Provider Registry. Victoria College is an approved training provider.
Can my employer train me and let me use a company vehicle to road test?
This is possible only if your employer is an approved ELDT training provider. DPS will not schedule a road test until a driver is ELDT certified.
What kind of CDL will I obtain?
You will get a Class A CDL and will be able to operate standard tractor/trailer combination vehicles.
What are the requirements to enroll in the course?
Students must provide a valid Texas Class C Driver License, a valid Texas Class A Commercial Learner Permit, a Medical Examiner’s Certificate with the Medical Examination Report Form, and the course tuition.
How old do I have to be to take the class?
The minimum age to attend the course is 18 years old. Some companies require drivers to be 21 years old for insurance reasons.
What is the cost of the course?
The tuition is $4,750.
How long is the training course?
In Victoria, the class is 5 weeks long. In Gonzales, the class is 11 weeks long.
Is tuition assistance available?
Yes. Students may apply for financial aid, a Continuing Education Scholarship, the SAIL Program through VC’s Adult Education Department, and may use Veterans Education Benefits. Assistance may also be available through Workforce Solutions of the Golden Crescent.
How do I get a Medical Examiner’s Certificate?
A DOT registered physician will issue a Medical Examiner’s Certificate upon completion of the DOT physical. Not all physicians are DOT registered. Some of the walk-in clinics in Victoria offer DOT physicals.
I already completed a DOT physical; do I need to take another one?
The expiration date of your current physical cannot expire before the date of your DPS Road Test. A copy of your certification and medical report will be needed for review at registration.
What type of drug screen and alcohol test is required?
A DOT, 5-panel, urine drug screen and DOT breath alcohol test are scheduled by Victoria College prior to the start date of class.
How do I get a Texas Class A Commercial Learner Permit (CLP)?
What type of equipment is used for training?
Tandem axle sleeper tractors, retrofitted with three extra seats to hold a total of four students, with manual transmissions, and 53’ dry van trailers.
Will I be road tested in the VC equipment?
Yes. VC equipment used in training is also used for student testing.
I have some violations on my driving record, can I still enroll?
Yes. However, keep in mind that all companies have different insurance requirements, particularly in regards to the time frame of a DUI/DWI conviction. Also, if you owe fees to DPS, you may not be eligible for a CLP or CDL. Check with the DPS office to ensure that your driver license is in good standing, and you are eligible for a CLP/CDL. As a professional driver, you will need to maintain a clean driver record.
Does VC have job placement?
No. However, many trucking companies have maintained long-term relationships with VC, and you may have the opportunity to visit with company recruiters. The CDL instructors are knowledgeable of companies that are hiring and are committed to assisting CDL graduates in obtaining employment.