Certification in Class A Truck Driving

Program Description

The Class A Truck Driving Workforce Certificate program prepares individuals for a career as a professional tractor-trailer driver. The curriculum integrates theoretical knowledge with hands-on, behind-the-wheel training to meet or exceed federal Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) regulations and state licensing requirements, and to prepare students to obtain a Class A Commercial Driver's License (CDL). Upon completion, students are ready to pursue entry-level employment in transportation, construction, and public service.

Total Clock Hours: 360

Credits: 13

Duration: 10 weeks

The courses stack into the Highway Construction Training Certificate of Completion degree

The program will prepare students for obtaining the following credentials:

Class A Commercial Driver’s License (CDL)
(N) Tanker Vehicles Endorsement
(T) Double/Triple Trailers Endorsement
(H) Hazardous Materials Endorsement (optional)

Career Opportunities

The career outlook for heavy tractor-trailer drivers in Montana is strong, with employment projected to grow by roughly 4% to 12% between 2024 and 2034, driven by high demand in agriculture, mining, and timber. The career is considered high-demand and stable, with many opportunities driven by industry growth and the need to replace retiring workers. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 4% growth nationally for 2024-2034, while some projections indicate even stronger, up to 12% growth for CDL drivers in Montana. The northwest, southwest, and south-central regions of Montana are expected to see the fastest growth, according to the Montana Department of Labor & Industry. In 2024, Montana truck drivers earned a median annual wage of approximately $59,060. Top-performing drivers, particularly in specialized roles such as hazmat, tanker, or oversized loads, can earn significantly higher salaries. Many companies offer signing, safety, and performance bonuses in addition to base pay.

Important Program Information

Students must contact the Registrar’s Office, Financial Aid, and the Highway Construction Training Program prior to admittance to the program.
Students must receive a “C” or better in all required courses to earn the Workforce Certificate.
All students, faculty, and staff are subject to random drug and alcohol testing throughout the training.
In addition to regular college admission requirements and prior to enrolling in the Class A Truck Driving Workforce Certificate Program, students must provide the HCTP with the following:
Complete HCT admission application
A current Department of Transportation (DOT) Medical Examiner’s Certificate (MEC)
Copy of current Montana Driver’s License
Social Security Card, non-laminated
Complete DOT Drug Analysis Screen
To obtain a CDL, students must pass a medical examination completed by a certified USDOT Medical Examiner and be issued a Medical Examiner’s Certificate (MEC). A current copy of the MEC, along with the long form provided by the medical examiner, must be returned to the HCTP office.
The DOT drug screen is taken separately from the DOT physical and may be completed by a lab in your area and mailed to the Human Resources Director at Salish Kootenai College. Drug screens must be completed within 30 days of the first day of class to be accepted.
Students should be advised that some companies that hire CDL drivers require the following: be 23 years of age, have no DUIs in the past 7 years, have no more than 3 moving violations in the past 3 years, and pass a pre-employment drug screen.
Students with a history of criminal convictions may not be eligible for all positions within the transportation industry. Students with concerns in this area should consult with the program director.

Physical Requirements

Must be able to lift 50 pounds to shoulder height.
Must be able to perform safely in field operations.
Must be able to communicate orally with a person 20 feet away.
Must be able to climb, unaided, onto and off of equipment using three points of contact.
Must be able to stand for long periods of time.
Must be able to visually read from a blueprint or drawing.
Must be able to hear a backup warning alarm from 100 feet down.

Expenses

In addition to the college tuition and fees, students will want to account for the following additional costs:

Lab fees -$250 per quarter
Books - up to $100
CDL Test Fee - up to $51
DOT Physical Exam - up to $125
DOT drug screen - up to $80

Please note: costs other than lab fees are approximate. Students are encouraged to contact the HCTP office for more details.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of the Class A Truck Driving Workforce Certificate, students will demonstrate knowledge, skills, and competencies in the following areas.

Apply 49 CFR Part 380 requirements and Federal/State regulations to maintain legal and ethical commercial vehicle operations.
Demonstrate mastery of Class A vehicle systems, including air brakes and combination units, through proficient maneuvers, inspections, and on-road driving.
Evaluate environmental, mechanical, and human risk factors to execute safe driving decisions under hazardous or emergency conditions.
Assess vehicle roadworthiness through systematic inspections and the identification of mechanical malfunctions.
Execute clear, accurate documentation and professional verbal communication with stakeholders, including dispatchers and law enforcement.
Practice culturally competent and responsible driving that respects tribal sovereignty, public safety, and jurisdictional authority.

Certification Requirements

Required Courses

TRUK115	Intro to Truck Driving	3
TRUK125	Entry-Level Driver Training Theory	2
TRUK127	Truck Driving Operations	8

Total Credit Hours: 13