My CDL training experience for those who work full time

I wanted to share my experience with CDL training in hopes it might help someone who’s considering the same path or facing uncertainty about whether it’s right for them.

I’m based in Alabama, where the state offers free Class A and Class B CDL training to all residents through the community college system. The program includes the required ELDT (Entry-Level Driver Training) online, followed by in-person range and road instruction. My school also covered the cost of the DOT physical and drug test. Officially, the program is structured to take 2 weeks for a Class B license and 3 weeks for a Class A.

I work full time as a firefighter, so I coordinated with my instructor to train on my days off. I initially intended to obtain only my Class B. With prior experience driving fire apparatus with air brakes and manual transmissions (weighing up to 50,000 lbs), I was able to complete the Class B training in just three days using a bobtail Peterbilt 379. I tested with the state on the third day and earned my Class B license without the automatic restriction, as well as my tanker endorsement.

Given the opportunity and cost (free), I returned to complete the Class A upgrade. After finishing the online B-to-A ELDT course, I spent 10 days over three weeks with the instructor to prepare for the skills test. I tested on the 10th day using an automatic transmission. However, since I had already tested in a manual for my Class B, I did not receive an automatic restriction on my Class A license.

The only out-of-pocket expense I had was the actual driver’s license fee. I later returned to earn my Passenger (P) and School Bus (S) endorsements in just two days. I now hold a Class A CDL with tanker, doubles/triples, passenger, and school bus endorsements.

While I don’t currently plan to drive commercially full-time, having the license opens up options and removes a major barrier if I ever choose to pursue it. It can absolutely be done, and there are excellent, low-cost or even free programs out there to help you get started.