DOT Entry Level Driver Training – Basic CMV Operation: Training Orientation

Entry-level driver applicants seeking to obtain a Class A or Class B Commercial Driver’s License (or CDL) for the first time, or to upgrade from a Class B CDL to a Class A CDL, must complete theory training and behind-the-wheel training supplied by a training provider registered with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, or FMCSA. Theory instruction can be provided in the classroom or online, while behind-the-wheel training must be conducted in a representative commercial motor vehicle (CMV) for which the driver is seeking to be licensed. Theory and behind-the-wheel trainings may be delivered by two different providers, but they must be completed within one year. This course is an orientation to the theory-based training. It introduces the regulations that apply to CMV drivers and the trainings they are required to complete to obtain a CDL. It describes safety fundamentals, vehicle size and weight limits, and responsibilities that are not directly related to CMV driving, such as cargo securement. Finally, it covers the ramifications if you do not comply with federal regulations, which can include driver disqualification and fines.

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Course Details

Learning Objectives

By the end of this course, you will be able to:

  • Explain commercial driver’s license (or CDL) requirements for CMV drivers
  • Describe the laws and regulations that apply to CDL drivers, including the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (or FMCSR) and Hazardous Materials Regulations (or HMR)
  • List the consequences of non-compliance with federal, state, and local regulations
  • Identify size and weight limitations applicable to CMVs

Specs

Course Level Fundamental
Languages English
Compatibility Audio, Video, MobileReady, Responsive

Bob Jonas

Author

Bob Jonas began his trucking adventure in 1973, at the age of twenty-three, driving for a new company that manufactured windows. First employed to drive 20-foot straight trucks, over the next 15 years he logged over a million miles in 11 western states. Starting with 40-foot dry vans, increasing in size to 53 feet, he also pulled doubles, occasionally triples, flatbeds, and reefers (refrigerated trailers). In addition to delivering windows, he was required to back haul everything from raw glass, cereal, oyster shells, potato flakes, paper, Christmas trees, and swinging horse meat. He was also given the responsibility of testing new hires. After leaving the company he had worked for so long, Jonas's life headed in another direction, where he was still able to use his driving skills for part time work. In the next few years, he worked the Christmas rush for UPS, hostling, driving doubles and triples. He also worked for another company delivering 5,000 lbs. spools of newsprint, as well as container pick and delivery to the docks and rail yards. His final miles were logged part time for another window manufacturer. Never knowing what road he would travel next, Bob didn't give up his CDL until 2014.

Course Applies To

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