Start a rewarding career driving the big rigs!
What is Commercial Driver's License Training?
Designed for individuals with little or no commercial driving experience, the program has everything you will need. The benefits include:
- Department of Transportation rules and regulations
- Log books
- Map reading assistance
- Trip planning guidelines
Complete vehicle training will prepare you for an entry-level position in the trucking industry. A certificate is awarded to students who complete the course. The program can be completed in four weeks by attending full-time, Monday through Thursday from 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM.
Students may register at any time; however, class size is limited. New classes start each month. Training is scheduled around holidays and interruptions caused by weather or other unforeseen circumstances.
Getting Started
What Are My Degree, Diploma, and Certificate Options?
How do I apply?
A high school diploma or GED is not required, however you must:
- Be able to read and write the English language
- Be over 18 years of age
- Be able to meet the Federal DOT physical requirements - Completed physical and drug test prior to enrollment
- Have a valid driver's license at the time of registration
- Have proof of social security number
You may be accepted into the program if you are 18 and over, but limited job placement assistance is available if you are under the age of 21.
To apply to this program, request a CDL application from ECTC Workforce Solutions or contact CDL Program Administrative Assistant Trish Smallwood at (270) 706-8645 or psmallwood0011@kctcs.edu.
For more information, complete the Request More Information form located on this page and submit. You will receive an email with more information.
ECTC will accept enrollment for all students regardless of their personal backgrounds as long as they can meet the entry requirements and submit all enrollment documents. However, it may be difficult for some individuals to find employment after graduating.
- According to Title 48, Subtitle B, Chapter III, Subchapter B, Part 383, Subpart D, § 383.51 of the FMCSA guidelines, federal regulations do not prohibit a driver who has been convicted of a felony from operating a CMV.
- Drivers who have a motor vehicle related felony charge may not be eligible to maintain a CDL-A license and/or could impact employment opportunities.
How much does the CDL program cost?
$4,500
CDL training may be more affordable than you think. Be sure to review the funding options or contact us for more information.
Students are responsible for the following, which tuition does NOT cover:
- DOT Physical: $50 - $125
- DOT/12-Panel drug screen: $25 - $100
- Permit: $11 Real ID $14 State mandated after May 7, 2025. After this date, you'll need a Real ID-compliant driver's license or identification card to board domestic flights and enter federal facilities. If you don't have a Real ID, you can use a passport or another form of accepted identification.
- Skills Fee: $50
- CDL Application: $24
- Skills Fee – Retest, if applicable: $52.50
How do I pay for this?
For information about the following services and funding sources, contact the Kentucky Career Center in your area.
- Workforce Investment and Opportunity Act (WIOA)
- Vocational Rehabilitation
Check with the ECTC Military and Veteran Services Center to see if your VA benefits could cover your CDL tuition. Contact the center at ECTCMVS@kctcs.edu or (270) 706-8815.
A portion of CDL costs may be covered by the Work Ready Kentucky Scholarship.
What Else Do I Need to Know?
What’s the CDL Program Schedule?
You’ll complete the program in just four weeks!
- Classes are held Monday – Thursday, 8 a.m. – 7:00p.m.
- 40 hours, classroom training
- 120 hours, yard and road skills training
- January 6, 2025
- January 27, 2025
- February 10, 2025
- February 24, 2025
- March 10, 2025
- March 24, 2025
- April 7, 2025
- April 21, 2025
- May 5, 2025
- May 19, 2025
- June 2, 2025
- June 16, 2025
