Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Training

Ready for a stable career with strong earning potential? Virginia’s transportation industry needs qualified CDL drivers, and Virginia Western Community College will help you get there. We offer three FMCSA-compliant Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) training pathways designed for maximum safety, flexibility, and real-world results. Whether you want to drive long-haul tractor-trailers or operate local delivery and utility vehicles, we have an option that fits your schedule and career goals.

What You’ll Gain:

• Class A or Class B Commercial Driver’s License
• Federal Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) certification
• Up to 120 hours of hands-on behind-the-wheel range and road instruction
• High-demand skills for immediate local, regional, or long-haul employment

Program Pathways Overview:

• MGCC Class A CDL (Hybrid / Flexible Online Theory): Flexible hybrid pathway combining self-paced online theory modules with manual transmission tractor-trailer driving instruction over 4 to 6 months.
• Ancora Class A CDL (100% In-Person / Accelerated): Accelerated training on automatic transmission tractor-trailers and combination rigs. Complete 160 clock hours in 4 weeks (day track) or 8 weeks (evening/weekend tracks).
• Ancora Class B CDL (100% In-Person / Accelerated): Train on automatic transmission straight trucks, box trucks, dump trucks, and local delivery vehicles. Complete 120 clock hours in as little as 3 to 4 weeks.

Tuition & Financial Assistance: Full tuition ranges from $4,500 to $5,700 depending on the pathway selected. All three options qualify for state FastForward grant funding and FANTIC financial assistance, which reduces out-of-pocket tuition to $0 for qualifying Virginia residents.

The road to your new career starts here!

Prerequisites & Essential Functions

Before registration, students must meet the following criteria and be able to perform these essential functions (PDF):

• Age: Must be at least 18 years old.
• License: Hold a valid driver’s license (minimum 60 days).
• Funding: Start your funding assistance right away.
• DOT Physical: Before enrolling you will need to pass a DOT physical. Key requirements include:
  • Vision: At least 20/40 acuity and a Field of Vision of 70 degrees.
  • Hearing: Must pass a “Forced Whisper” test from 5 feet away.
• Important Drug Screening Notice: Do not take your DOT drug & alcohol screening yet. Because seats are limited to 6 per month and results expire in 30 days, wait until enrollment explicitly notifies you to schedule this test.
• Language: Must meet English language proficiency requirements.