Training for the CDL at Swift Academy can help you gain the specialized skills you need for a job you’ll love and a career that can grow with you.

At Swift, we’re committed to helping you earn your CDL license. Throughout our classes, you’ll meet seasoned instructors who will be there for you from beginning to end – from getting your CDL permit to passing your Class A CDL test.

But first, let’s take a look at what exactly the CDL is, what its requirements are, and how to successfully earn your license in order to become a professional truck driver.

If you’re ready to take the next step in your career and sign up for CDL classes at Swift Academy, apply online or call us at (888) 903-9757 to speak with an advisor.

What is a Commercial Driver's License?

If you are interested in the life of a professional truck driver, you'll need to earn your commercial driver's license (CDL) in order to legally operate a commercial vehicle.

Ranging from Class A to Class C, there are 3 types of CDL Licenses to choose from when pursuing a career as a professional driver. It is critical to find out the purpose of each type to ensure you obtain a CDL License that best suits your professional goals. For example, you are required to obtain a Class A CDL to become a Swift Driver.

Learn more about each CDL License type and how to earn them with the link below.

TYPES OF CDL LICENSES

Finding CDL classes near you

When it comes to enrolling in a CDL class for a Class A CDL, we know you have options. But with professional, experienced instructors who care about your success as a driver, Swift Academy is best-in-class. With 10 locations across the country, plus additional training partners, we can help you get the life changing skills you need at a training facility near you.

VIEW SWIFT ACADEMY LOCATIONS

What do you learn in CDL training?

Throughout your CDL classes at Swift Academy, our instructors will cover the basics, including truck driver requirements, pre-trip inspections, trip planning, and how to maintain legal log books. You'll also get ample time in the cab and behind the wheel – getting the real-world experience you need to become a safe, confident driver.

In order to ensure you have the skills you need to drive in a variety of conditions, our CDL class includes lessons on:

Cab Controls
Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT)
Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA):

Straight Line
45- or 90-Degree Alley Dock
Offset Backing
Sight Side/Blind Side Backing
Parallel Parking

Mountain Upgrade/Downgrade
Road Training

Commentary Driving
Intersections - Controlled/Uncontrolled
Railroad Crossings
Emergency Stopping/Parking
Log Book Entries
Enroute Inspections
Student Driving

Correct Mirror Usage
Handling Accidents, Incidents, and Emergencies

If you're ready to earn your commercial driver's license, call (888) 903-9757 to speak with an advisor or apply online to kickstart your career with Swift.

Get started with the CDL application

Just like any other training program at Swift Academy, it all starts with a simple online application that takes just a few minutes to complete. When filling it out, you'll be asked if you meet the following criteria:

No DUI within 10 years if CDL-A holder, none within five years if you're a non-CDL-A holder.
No more than one preventable accident in the past two years, no major accident within five years.
No more than two moving violations in the past two years.
Able to pass a DOT physical and drug test (urine and hair).
Are at least 21 years old.

If you meet these basic requirements, you'll be asked to provide us with your contact information before being prompted to answer questions related to your background.

Once you've completed our application, your information will then be reviewed and taken into consideration. If you are accepted into the Swift Academy, you will be notified.

DOT physical & drug test

Before officially enrolling, and after receiving your conditional offer, you'll be required to complete a Department of Transportation (DOT) physical as well as a hair test. New students will also be required to pass a secondary physical exam – the Functional Capacity Exam (FCE) to ensure you can perform the basic functions of a truck driver.

Language & reading tests

Along with passing the DOT physical, FCE, and drug tests, the DOT requires all drivers to read, write, and speak English proficiently. Therefore, an English assessment test will also be given.

TIPS FOR TAKING THE CDL

What are the requirements for a CDL license?

Before you can enroll in Swift Academy, or any CDL training program, there are specific CDL requirements that students and licensed drivers must meet. In addition, there are several disqualifications that would prevent someone from earning their commercial driver's license.

To obtain a CDL License you must complete the following steps:

Step 1: Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP)
Step 2: Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT)
Step 3: Commercial Driver’s License (CDL)

Along with the national commercial driver's license requirements put forth by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), every state has their own list of guidelines. To review CDL requirements by state, visit FHWA.DOT.gov to find your state's Department of Transportation.

What disqualifies you from getting a CDL?

Along with FMCSA's commercial driver's license requirements, the agency also lists several disqualifications that would prevent someone from being allowed to earn their CDL – either for a period of time or a lifetime. Just a few of the CDL disqualifications include being convicted of:

Leaving the scene of an accident.
Being under the influence of alcohol as prescribed by state law.
Driving recklessly, as defined by state or local law or regulations.
Being under the influence of a controlled substance as prescribed by state law.
Speeding excessively, involving any speed of 15mph or more above the regulated or posted speed limit.

For a complete list of CDL disqualifications, visit FMCSA.gov and eCFR.gov.

If you're applying for Swift Academy CDL training and aren't sure if you meet the requirements, call us at (888) 903-9757.

CDL Information