About
The roads are wide open for those wishing to become commercial truck drivers! According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median pay for a commercial truck driver is $48,500 per year. At Bates, you can earn your certificate of training Class B CDL with endorsements in just one quarter (Only the Class B option is offered in Spring Quarter 2023). Students train in three axle tractors Class A CDL ( 10-speed and 13-speed Manual transmissions also 10 speed Auto Shifts, (28-53 foot trailers) Class B CDL Box Trucks 6 Speed Manual or Auto-Shift Transmissions. Students begin on a commercial truck simulator (Class A) and then progress to behind-the-wheel driving. Students learn logbooks, receive atlas training, and complete weight distribution, truck terms, workbook exercises and backing exercises. Earn your Class B CDL and get a job driving local (intrastate) or cross-country (interstate). Hazmat classes are also offered. NOTE: Effective Spring Quarter 2023, only Class B CDL will be offered. Please check the online class schedule for dates and time
Organization
Bates Technical College - Central Campus
Bates Technical College
Bates Technical College, located in Tacoma, WA, is a higher education institution specializing in career and technical education. It serves approximately 8,000 students across three campuses, offering hands-on learning through programs such as Certified Nursing Assistant and a Bachelor of Applied Science in Public Safety Administration. The college employs around 471 staff, was founded in 1940, and is dedicated to inspiring student learning, challenging achievement, and educating for employment in a nurturing, diverse environment.
Highlights:
- Offers Washington state's only Bachelor of Applied Science degree in Public Safety Administration
- Recognized as Best Trade/Technical School in South Sound Magazine 2025