Provides students basic instruction required to earn a Class A Commercial Driver’s License (CDL).
Students learn how to operate a tractor-trailer truck safely and efficiently through classroom, range, and over-the-road environments and through full-time and part-time course work. The Class A program is certified by the Professional Truck Driver Institute (PTDI). Students who successfully complete the Class A program will receive both a CNM Truck Driving Certificate of Achievements and a PTDI certificate. Upon receipt of a Class A license the student will be able to drive Class A, B, and C vehicles. The student does not have to complete a Class B program to take this program of study. This program meets federal regulation requirements for entry-level drivers.
Lab Courses are held at off-campus locations.
Educational Option Information
This program can be completed:
Part-time or full-time. Full time completes in one term, part-time completes in two terms.
This program can be started:
Any term.
Primary course location:
Advanced Technology Center (ATC)
Special Requirements
Students are expected to purchase textbooks and possibly small assistive equipment such as work gloves and a flashlight.
Physical requirements
All students must pass a DOT physical and drugscreen. All students will be required to be subject to random DOT drugscreens as well. Students must be able to work in all weather conditions, climb, and stand for long periods as the lab classes are conducted outside.
Other course requirements
Students are subject to ALL Federal Motor Carriers Safety Regulations drug and alcohol testing rules.
A felony conviction will not prevent entry into the program, obtaining a CDL, or employment; however, it may limit available employment opportunities. In addition, depending upon the type of felony conviction and the age of the conviction, the student may not be able to obtain a Hazardous Materials endorsement if they are looking for this. Information on the Hazardous Materials limitations are available with the department or on the New Mexico MVD website.
Although the Truck Driving program is not eligible for Federal Financial Aid, there are some possible outside funding options (i.e. VA, DVR, etc.). For more information go to http://www.cnm.edu/depts/financial-aid.
Career and Educational Opportunities
Educational Opportunities
This is a terminal certificate option and leads directly to employment eligibility. Transferability to other institutions is dependent upon that particular institution.
Certifications
Students will be qualified to apply and test for a New Mexico Class A CDL upon completion of the program.
Employment Information
Jobs are available with various types of trucking companies, including local delivery, in-state routes and over-the road (regional and 48 states) opportunities.
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