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CDL-A classes near me in Columbia

In the Columbia metro area, the average cost of a CDL-A class is $7000 and the average class length is approximately 4 weeks long

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Columbia, SC 29201

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Liberty University Online

BS: Civil Engineering

Online
  • Online, completion in as little as 42 months.
  • Option to transfer credits for up to 75% of the entire degree.

Financial aid (may be available)

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Liberty University Online

BS: Aviation Management

Online
  • Online, completion in as little as 42 months.
  • Option to transfer credits for up to 75% of the entire degree.

Financial aid (may be available)

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Southern New Hampshire University

BS Operations Management with concentration in Logistics and Transportation

Online
  • Complete your degree at your own pace
  • 24/7 online accessibility

Financial aid (may be available)

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Liberty University Online

BS: Aviation Maintenance Management

Online
  • Online, completion in as little as 42 months.
  • Option to transfer credits for up to 75% of the entire degree.

Financial aid (may be available)

Programs not available on Dreambound

NOT AVAILABLE ON DREAMBOUND

Midlands Technical College - Northeast Campus

Online Commercial Driver's License Class A (CDL-A) Classes

Online

The CDL-A program is offered in in a weekday or weekend format. The weekday option meets Monday through Thursday, from 7 am-5:30 pm for four weeks and the weekend option meets Saturday and Sunday, 7 am-5:30 pm for eight weeks. Graduates will be prepared to test for a Class A Commercial Driver’s License. Students are given the opportunity to take the CDL driving test at their local DMV office in the same vehicle they used to complete their training.

To be accepted into the program, students are required to obtain and submit a South Carolina CDL Permit, a DOT physical, and a DOT drug screen before class starts. A 10-year driving record is obtained from the SCDMV during the application process as well. All paperwork must be completed and submitted before the student can be scheduled for a class. The program has been inspected, approved, and licensed by S.C. Department of Motor Vehicles. All instructors meet the department’s standards and are certified by the DMV.

No cost info

NOT AVAILABLE ON DREAMBOUND

Kenai Peninsula Driving Instruction LLC

Online Commercial Driver's License Class A (CDL-A) Classes

Online

$4,500 total

NOT AVAILABLE ON DREAMBOUND

Emerge Career

Online Commercial Driver's License Class A (CDL-A) Classes

Online

Emerge Career offers a comprehensive Commercial Driver's License Class A (CDL-A) program to help individuals become professional truck drivers. The program includes classroom instruction, hands-on training, and behind-the-wheel experience to prepare students for the CDL-A exam. In addition, Emerge Career provides job placement assistance to help graduates find employment in the trucking industry.

No cost info

NOT AVAILABLE ON DREAMBOUND

Central Georgia Technical College - Twiggs County

Online Commercial Driver's License Class A (CDL-A) Classes

Online

This Class A CDL training course is designed to meet all theory (knowledge) requirements listed in The Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) 49 CFR Part 380, Special Training Requirements. It includes sections covering basic operation, safe operating procedures, advanced operating practices, vehicle systems and reporting malfunctions, and non-driving activities—all essential to obtaining your Class A driver’s license. This CDL course was created in collaboration with an approved training provider listed on FMCSA’s Training Provider Registry (TPR).

$195 total

NOT AVAILABLE ON DREAMBOUND

Xtra Mile Driver Training

In person Commercial Driver's License Class A (CDL-A) Classes

In person·49 mi away

The Commercial Driver's License Class A program at Xtra Mile Driver Training provides comprehensive training to individuals seeking a career in the commercial trucking industry. The program covers topics such as safe driving, vehicle inspections, and trip planning to ensure students are prepared for on-the-job challenges. With hands-on training and experienced instructors, graduates of the CDL-A program are well-equipped to obtain their CDL and start their career as a professional truck driver.

$5,500 total


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CDL-A Classes Near Me in Columbia

The city of Columbia, South Carolina, boasts a thriving job market for aspiring truck drivers. With a growing economy and a high demand for transportation services, the opportunities to become a truck driver and earn a good truck driver salary are abundant. Whether you're looking to start a new career or enhance your existing skills, there are various CDL-A classes near you in Columbia that can help you on your journey to becoming a professional truck driver.

Commercial Driver's License Class A (CDL-A)

What is a CDL-A?

A CDL-A, or Commercial Driver's License Class A, is the highest level of commercial driver's license in the United States. This license allows individuals to operate a combination of vehicles, such as a tractor-trailer, semi-truck, or tanker truck, weighing more than 26,001 pounds. Obtaining a CDL-A license is a crucial step for those interested in pursuing a career as a long-haul or over-the-road truck driver.

Training Requirements

To obtain a CDL-A license in South Carolina, individuals must meet certain training requirements. This typically includes completing a state-approved CDL training program, passing a written exam, and demonstrating proficiency in operating a commercial vehicle through a skills test. The specific requirements may vary depending on the CDL-A training program you choose.

What's the Fastest Someone Can Become a Truck Driver in Columbia?

The time it takes to become a truck driver in Columbia can vary depending on the individual's prior experience, the training program they choose, and their dedication to the process. However, many CDL-A training programs in the area can be completed in as little as 3-4 weeks, allowing individuals to quickly transition into a new career as a professional truck driver.

CDL-A Classes in Columbia

Columbia, South Carolina, offers several CDL-A training options for individuals looking to become truck drivers. Here are a few examples:

  1. Midlands Technical College:

    • Length: 4-6 weeks
    • Price: $4,500 - $5,500
    • Requirements: High school diploma or GED, valid driver's license, and passing a background check and drug test
    • Overview: Midlands Technical College offers a comprehensive CDL-A training program that includes both classroom instruction and behind-the-wheel training. Students will learn the skills necessary to operate a commercial vehicle safely and effectively.
  2. Central Carolina Technical College:

    • Length: 4 weeks
    • Price: $3,995
    • Requirements: Valid driver's license, passing a background check and drug test
    • Overview: Central Carolina Technical College's CDL-A program provides students with the knowledge and practical experience needed to obtain their commercial driver's license. The program covers a wide range of topics, including vehicle inspections, defensive driving, and load securement.
  3. Aiken Technical College:

    • Length: 4 weeks
    • Price: $4,200
    • Requirements: Valid driver's license, passing a background check and drug test
    • Overview: Aiken Technical College's CDL-A training program is designed to prepare students for a successful career as a commercial truck driver. The program includes classroom instruction, simulator training, and behind-the-wheel experience to ensure students are fully equipped to operate a commercial vehicle.

Exploring a Career in CDL-A Outside Columbia

If you're eager to start a career as a Truck Driver but are situated in a different state, don't be discouraged. Your opportunity to work as a Truck Driver might be found in Austin, Columbus, McAllen, Providence, San Diego. If you don't live near these areas, Dreambound offers a straightforward solution to scout and compare CDL-A classes by searching with your zip code. No matter where you live, with dedication and the right resources, carving out a career in trade, construction, and industry is within your reach.

Online and Free CDL-A Options in Columbia

While in-person CDL-A training programs are the most common option in Columbia, there are also some online and free resources available for those interested in becoming truck drivers.

Online CDL-A training programs can provide a flexible and convenient learning experience, allowing students to complete the theoretical portion of the training at their own pace. However, it's important to note that these programs still require hands-on, behind-the-wheel training to be eligible for a CDL-A license.

In terms of free CDL-A options, some local organizations and workforce development programs may offer free or low-cost training opportunities for qualified individuals. These programs are typically designed to help underemployed or unemployed individuals gain the skills and certifications needed to secure a job as a truck driver.

The Certification Process

The process of obtaining a CDL-A license in South Carolina involves several steps. First, individuals must complete a state-approved CDL training program, which includes both classroom instruction and behind-the-wheel training. Upon successful completion of the training, students will be required to pass a written exam covering topics such as vehicle inspection, safe driving practices, and federal regulations.

Next, students will need to pass a skills test, which evaluates their ability to operate a commercial vehicle safely and effectively. This test includes a pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and a road test.

Once an individual has passed both the written and skills tests, they will be issued a CDL-A license, which is valid for a period of five years. Regular renewal and continued compliance with state and federal regulations are required to maintain the license.

The Job Environment in Columbia

Columbia, South Carolina, offers a promising job environment for those with a CDL-A license. The city's thriving economy and growing transportation industry provide ample opportunities for truck drivers. Some of the potential employers for CDL-A drivers in Columbia include:

  • Major logistics and transportation companies, such as UPS, FedEx, and Schneider National
  • Local and regional trucking companies, including Carolina Freight and Southeastern Freight Lines
  • Distribution centers and warehouses, such as Amazon and Walmart
  • Construction companies that require the transportation of heavy equipment and materials

With the high demand for truck drivers in the area, CDL-A holders in Columbia can expect competitive wages and a stable career path.

Final Thoughts

Becoming a truck driver in Columbia, South Carolina, can be a rewarding and lucrative career choice. With the city's thriving job market and the availability of various CDL-A training programs, individuals interested in this field have ample opportunities to get started. Whether you're looking to become a truck driver or enhance your existing skills, the resources and support available in Columbia can help you achieve your goals and secure a fulfilling career on the road.

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