Class A CDL Basics

DRIVE509 ETPL
This course is designed to meet all Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) requirements established by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and the Washington State Department of Transportation (WA DOT). Training includes behind-the-wheel, range, and theory instruction for individuals pursuing a Class A Commercial Driver's License (CDL). In addition to meeting federal and state standards, the program offers an extra week of hands-on training to strengthen student's skills and confidence further. This extended training period is highly recommended for individuals new to the trucking industry, as it enables greater practical application of newly acquired skills and knowledge. The added time ensures students achieve a higher level of proficiency and readiness to meet the rigorous demands of ELDT requirements and succeed in real-world driving environments.
Visit the program website John Chadwick Student Services Specialist Administration (509) 990-2884 admin@drive509.com

Financial information

Total tuition

$5,625.00

Total required fees

$811.75

Books and supplies

$0.00

Locations

Spokane Valley

Instructional methods

In-person Primary Location, In-Person Variable Sites

Is this program offered on evenings and weekends?

No

Program details

5 Weeks

Length of training

Certificate

Award type

N/A

Credits

200

Clock Hours (Total)

Additional details

Award name

Certificate of Completion

Education Prerequisites

None

Prerequisite courses and other requirements

Program Prerequisite Requirements Applicants must meet the following requirements: Class A Permit Valid DOT medical card Negative DOT drug test result Complete driving record (abstract) English language proficiency at Level 5 or higher

Is this program approved to train veterans?

No

Program languages

English

Certification/license obtained as part of training program

Certification or License Earned Students who successfully pass all required road and range proficiency assessments in accordance with Washington State and FMCSA standards will receive a Certificate of Completion from DRIVE509 andwill be scheduled for the Washington State skills exam with a third-party examiner for the opportunity to obtain a Class A Commercial Driver’s License (CDL).

Certification/license test preparation provided

State Skills Exam Preparation All DRIVE509 CDL training programs include comprehensive preparation for the Washington State CDL Skills Examination, as required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and the Washington State Department of Licensing (DOL). Students receive hands-on instruction and guided practice in each component of the state exam, including: Pre-Trip Vehicle Inspection: Identifying and explaining key vehicle parts, safety systems, and inspection procedures to ensure roadworthiness and compliance with FMCSA standards. Basic Vehicle Control (Backing Skills): Practicing a variety of backing maneuvers such as straight-line, offset, and alley dock to develop precision control and spatial awareness. Road Test (Street Driving): Demonstrating safe driving habits in real-world traffic environments, including turns, lane changes, intersections, and hazard response. Our instructors provide individualized coaching, evaluation, and repetition opportunities to ensure each student is fully prepared to meet or exceed the performance standards required to pass the state-administered CDL Skills Exam successfully.

Employment performance results

Program type

Truck and Bus Driver/Commercial Vehicle Operator and Instructor

Completion rate

100%

Employment rate

78%

Typical (median) hourly earnings

$28.50

Typical (median) annual earnings

$59,212.00

Top industries for graduates

Program type

Truck and Bus Driver/Commercial Vehicle Operator and Instructor

Wholesale Trade

27%

Construction

18%

Transportation and Warehousing

16%

Agriculture, Forestry, Fishing

9%

Administrative Support

8%

Student characteristics

Enrollment
Number of students completing the program
193
Completion rate
100%
Average number of students who completed each year
193
Gender
Male
98%
Female
2%
Race
American Indian or Alaska Native
2%
Asian
3%
Black or African American
9%
Hispanic
5%
Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander
0%
White
78%
Multi-racial
1%
Other
3%
Age
Under 20
6%
20 to 29
36%
30 to 39
32%
40 to 49
14%
50 and over
11%
Prior education
No high school diploma/GED
5%
High school diploma/GED, but no college experience
57%
Some college experience, but no degree
12%
Certificate or AA
19%
BA or higher
7%