Center for Employment Training

Truck Driver

Soledad
Certificate · On Campus
Truck Driver
Accredited by the Commission of the Council on Occupational Education (COE).
21 weeks (630 clock hours)
$11,476.00; the catalog defines this amount as program tuition and says no additional tuition is assessed within its completion window.
Certificate awarded on completion.
TD30 / TD30H
Soledad — 930 Los Coches Drive, Soledad, CA 93960

Truck Driver is a Certificate program offered by Center for Employment Training in Soledad, CA. The program takes 21 weeks (630 clock hours) to complete, with a total tuition of $11,476.

Program Overview

Upon completion of the Truck Driver program, the student should be able to obtain a Class A CDL to obtain a job as an over-the-road truck driver, van driver, milk driver, heavy and light truck driver. This program will provide fundamental knowledge of over-the-road truck driving industry. Students will learn the Department of Transportation rules and regulations as it pertains to truck driving, how to safely operate a semi-truck and trailer, mapping, and e-log book rules. Furthermore, students will demonstrate proficiency in customer service, the use of the internet, and job search skills.

What Sets This Program Apart

Enrollment Requirements: Must possess a California Class C Driver's License; must pass the Department of Transportation (DOT) Physical Exam before behind-the-wheel driving; must be approved by the Center for Employment Training Liability Insurance Company; must pass a Drug Test before behind-the-wheel driving and randomly administered after obtaining a driving permit; and must obtain a driving permit within 30 days of enrollment. A Motor Vehicle Report (MVR) covering a minimum of ten years is reviewed; students with a poor driving record will not be accepted.

CET is registered as a training provider with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and is listed on the Training Provider Registry. Upon successful completion, CET provides information to FMCSA and to the DMV confirming that entry-level drivers completed the training required by the Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) regulations.

Admission Requirements & Process

Get the skills you need for a job you love. CET’s hands-on training and industry connections help students of all backgrounds create a better life through better work. Our admission process is simple, and with open enrollment there’s no need to wait for the semester or quarter – you can enroll today and start job training right away.

General Requirements

  • Minimum Age
    CET’s doors are open to anyone 18 years of age and older who wants to learn a skill for placement into a job. Those younger than 18 years of age (but not younger than 16) may be…
  • No Academic Requirements
    CET does not have academic requirements for admission into any of the programs it offers. No previous academic experience is required, and CET provides the necessary general…
  • CASAS Assessment
    CET uses the CASAS assessment (paper-based and eTest) to determine baseline reading and math skills.
  • Diploma, GED or ATB
    Original High School Diploma, or GED, or Foreign Equivalent, or meet Ability-To-Benefit (ATB) guidelines (if applying for financial aid). The Adult Education Career Pathways…
  • Identification Documents
    Driver’s License or other official picture I.D., Social Security Card, and Proof of Citizenship/Residency (original Birth Certificate, Passport, Permanent Resident Card, or…
  • Proof of Income
    Last two years’ Federal Income Tax Return of applicant and spouse, if married, or parent(s’) Income Tax Return; proof of other income (SSI, Disability, Workers Comp., etc.); and…
  • Selective Service Registration
    Proof of Selective Service Registration, if born on or after 1/1/1960, or proof of exemption. Emergency alternate contacts of close relatives (address, telephone and/or cell phone…
  • California Class C License
    Must possess a California Class C Driver’s License. Applicants agree by signature on the enrollment agreement to meet Department of Transportation (DOT) and CET requirements.
  • DOT Physical Exam
    Must pass the Department of Transportation (DOT) Physical Exam before behind the wheel driving.
  • Insurance Approval
    Must be approved by the Center for Employment Training Liability Insurance Company.
  • Drug Testing
    Must pass a Drug Test before behind the wheel driving and randomly administered after obtaining driving permit.
  • Driving Permit Within 30 Days
    Must obtain driving permit within 30 days of enrollment to avoid the risk of being terminated from the program. The driving permit is required for behind the wheel maneuvers.
  • Motor Vehicle Report Review
    A Motor Vehicle Report (MVR) covering a minimum of ten years will be reviewed by the Truck Driving Instructor, Center Director and Human Resources Department. Students with an MVR…

Application Process

  1. 1
    Meet with an Admissions Advisor
    Discuss your interests and discover which program makes the most sense for you. When an initial inquiry is made, you are scheduled to attend a general information session presented by an Admissions Advisor. To get the most out of your first appointment, bring proof of income, an ID or driver’s license, your Social Security card, your high school diploma, GED, foreign equivalency or ATB, and your residency card (if applicable).
  2. 2
    Discuss Financial Aid and Complete the FAFSA
    Talk with your campus Financial Aid Officer (FAO) and find out if you qualify for federal financial aid. Start by filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, or come in to your local CET and speak with your Financial Aid Officer.
    FAFSA Code for Soledad: 016516
  3. 3
    Review Program Details
    After you select your program and possible financial aid, the Instructor/Advisor provides a formal presentation of the program and goes over the start date, tuition, tools and textbooks provided, and information about the school.
  4. 4
    Enroll and Start Training
    Congratulations! With CET’s open enrollment there’s no need to wait for the semester or quarter – your job training program starts right away. You have the right to cancel the enrollment agreement and obtain a refund of charges paid through attendance at the first class session, or the 10th class-day after enrollment, whichever is later.

Program Schedule

Class code(s): TD30 / TD30H. Published length: 21 weeks (630 clock hours).

Cost of Attendance & Financial Aid

Cost and Financial Aid Information is an estimate for general reference only. It is not an offer or guarantee of financial aid or of any price, and what a School charges you may differ.
Total Program Tuition
≈ $11,476
FAFSA Code
Net Price Calculator

The governing campus catalog publishes $11,476.00 as Total Charges and states that this is program tuition; no additional tuition is assessed for students completing within the stated window. Required books/e-books and specified uniforms or protective equipment are included, subject to the catalog's opt-out limits. CET participates in federal student-aid programs for eligible students.

Curriculum

  • Basic Operations — 130 hours
  • Safe Operating Procedures — 130 hours
  • Advanced Operating Procedures — 63 hours
  • Vehicle Maintenance — 111 hours
  • Non-Vehicle Activities — 63 hours
  • State License Preparation — 83 hours
  • Job Preparedness — 20 hours
  • Customer Service Skills — 10 hours
  • Basic Computer Skills — 20 hours
  • Total Hours of Instruction — 630

All programs are open enrollment; competency completion varies among students.

The required courses below are from Center for Employment Training's published catalog.

Required Courses

Name
Basic Operations
Safe Operating Procedures
Advanced Operating Procedures
Vehicle Maintenance
Non-Vehicle Activities
State License Preparation
Job Preparedness
Customer Service Skills
Basic Computer Skills

Career Outcomes

Job Placement Assistance

CET job developers work with students to prepare them to obtain jobs through the preparation of resumes, applications, and mock interviews. Career Service Specialists work with local industry to match CET trainees to available jobs. CET does not guarantee job placement, but does actively help job-ready individuals to find training-related jobs, follows up on students who leave the program and continues to offer additional placement assistance to those in need. In addition, CET prepares students to identify job opportunities and to compete in the job market on their own.

Job Retention Follow-Up

It is the policy of CET to maintain records of graduates and withdrawals from the program and provide post-training follow-up services to all former students. Follow-up activities include assistance primarily to ensure job procurement; employment retention, and gathering of employment data of former students; and dissemination of information on opportunities for further education. Each of CET's programs prepares the students for occupations that are in demand in the local labor market. The programs are designed in close cooperation with local employers to ensure that CET graduates fill industry needs.

What to Expect as a CET Student

Holistic Approach

Since inception, CET's fundamental purpose was to develop and implement an effective method for training a diverse and needy population. The program therefore is designed as holistic, comprehensive, individualized, and adaptable to each person's needs.

Technical Skill Training

CET offers its students an open-entry, open-exit, competency-based employment training program. All instruction is in English. The program is individualized and covers the learning necessary for the desired occupational goals. A student advances along his/her/their own individual training plan, moving through academic and technical competencies, as he/she/they demonstrate the required mastery. The training includes a strong hands-on component using tools and equipment similar to those found in industry. CET promotes good work habits through simulation of a business environment. Attendance and punctuality are always required in recognition of their importance on the job.

Integrated Basic Skills & Human Development

CET provides contextualized academic instruction to all students. Vocational English and foundational education are systematically integrated into the skill training curriculum and are delivered within the framework of the specific occupational program in which the student is enrolled. Students' work habits, behavioral patterns, and communication skills often have as much impact on job success as does technical knowledge. In order to prepare students for the demands of the world of work, CET provides a Human Development component, with instruction in life skills, communication strategies, situations on the job, and informational sessions by professionals on topics such as general health, parenting, and budgeting.

Location

Soledad
930 Los Coches Drive
Suite 103
Soledad, CA 93960

Accreditation & Approvals

CET is accredited by the Commission of the Council on Occupational Education (COE) and approved to operate in California by the Bureau for Private Postsecondary Education (BPPE).

Frequently Asked Questions

What programs are offered?
Click here for a list of programs.
How much does it cost?
Click here for a list of tuition
Is there a location near me?
Click here for a list of locations.
Will you help me find a job?
Click here for information about placement assistance.
What programs do you offer to prepare of the business industry?
Click here for a list of programs that prepare you for the business industry.
What type of programs do you offer that prepares you for the Construction & Building Maintenance?
Click here for a list of programs that prepare you for the Construction & Building Maintenance industry.
What type of programs do you offer that prepares you for the Culinary industry?
Click here for a list of programs that prepare you for the Culinary industry.
What type of programs do you offer that prepares you for the Medical industry?
Click here for a list of programs that prepare you for the Medical industry.
What type of programs do you offer that prepares you for the Technical Trades industry?
Click here for a list of programs that prepare you for the Technical Trades industry.
What type of programs do you offer that prepares you for the Truck Driving & Logistics industry?
Click here for a list of programs that prepare you for the Truck Driving & Logistics industry.
What types of industries can I be trained for?
We want you to succeed, so we train you for jobs where there’s expected to be continued growth, including: • Business • Childcare • Construction & Building Maintenance • Culinary • Medical • Technical Trades • Truck Driving & Logistics
Where does the Truck Driver job training classes take place?
CET offers truck driver job training program in El Paso, Texas and 2 locations in California, El Centro and Soledad, CA. In addition to the classroom learning on CET's campus, the full-size tractor and open roads will be your lab!
How long does it take to finish truck driver job training program?
This is a full time program and requires 30 hours a week. Students usually finish the 630 hour program in 6-7 months.
When does the next truck driver class start?
Right now! CET’s open enrollment means once your application is completed you can start the next day.
What types of jobs can I find after I graduate from the truck driving program?
When you’re trained as an truck driver, you’re qualified for a variety of jobs, including: • Delivery Driver • Line Haul Driver • Log Truck Driver • Over the Road Driver (OTR Driver) • Production Truck Driver • Road Driver • Semi Truck Driver • Tractor Trailer Operator • Truck Driver
How soon after graduation will I start working as a truck driver?
Every student’s experience is different, but according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the trucking industry has a higher than average job growth. To see what the job outlook is like for truck drivers where you live, go to onetonline.org and plug in your state in the section for “Wages and Employment Trends.” And with CET’s job placement assistance, you will always have ready help to find the right job.
What can I expect to make as truck driver?
The Bureau of Labor Statistics shared this information (see below) about what people can make as a truck driver. Remember that this is only an average- depending on where you live, the wages can be higher or lower. To see how much truck drivers earn in your region, go to onetonline.org and plug in your state in the section for “Wages and Employment Trends.” National Wages & Employment Trends* For Heavy and Tractor Trailer Truck Drivers Median wages | 2017 | $20.42/hr, $42,480/yr Employment | 2016 | 1,872,00 employees Projected openings | 2016-2026 | 213,500 *Data as of August 2018. For additional information, including details on associated occupations, national and state wage and employment statistics, go to onetonline.org.
How much does the truck driving program cost, and how can I pay for this?
Training to be a professional truck driver costs $11,476 including books, project supplies, uniforms and tools. If you qualify for financial aid you may be eligible to receive grants, scholarships and/or federal student loans.
What if I didn’t graduate from high school or don’t have my GED?
At CET you may have options without them. Be sure to tell the Admissions Department so they can guide you through the eligibility process.
How big are the truck driving classes?
Class size is approximately 20-25 students and varies by the type of program.
Do you provide any certificates needed by employers?
Students become eligible for the Commercial Driver License (CDL) exam during the program. Upon obtaining the CDL and graduating from the program, students are ready for employment as an entry level commercial truck driver.
What do I need to get started learning to be a professional truck driver? Are there any high school math classes I need to get started?
No. Students are provided with basic skills instruction that includes English and math. Additional one on one tutoring is available if needed by the student.
CET is national, but what about the graduation and job placement rates for truck drivers in my CET location?
Good question! When you’re making decisions about your future, it’s important to be as informed as possible. To see statistics about CET’s program performance, click on the CET location below to access the Federal Student Right to Know and State Program Performance Fact Sheets.*. Remember- we’re here to help. Contact your local CET Admissions Department for additional information or assistance. The truck driver job training program is offered at the following locations: • El Centro, CA • El Paso, TX - evening schedule too! • Soledad, CA
What do I need to enroll?
A high school diploma or GED and a valid driver’s license.
Do I need experience to start?
No. Our truck driver program is designed for beginners with no prior commercial driving experience.
What certification will I receive?
Our program prepares students to pass the CDL test and earn their Commercial Driver’s License.
What types of jobs can I get after completing the program?
Graduates can become long-haul truck drivers, local delivery drivers, hazmat-certified drivers, or owner-operators.
Where is the CET Truck Driver Program offered?
Our truck driver program is available in El Centro, CA; Soledad, CA; and El Paso, TX.
Do I have to have a minimum GPA to enroll?
No, there are no GPA requirements.
Can I go to CET without a diploma or GED?
Yes, CET accepts students who haven’t earned a high school diploma or GED.
What should I do to see if I qualify for Financial Aid?
To qualify for Federal Student Aid, you must: • Demonstrate financial need. (Except for Unsubsidized and PLUS (Parent) loan programs.) • Certify that you’ll use Federal Student Aid only for educational purposes. • Have a high school diploma, a General Education Development (GED), or meet Ability-To-Benefit (ATB) guidelines. • Be enrolled or accepted for enrollment. • Be a citizen or an eligible non-citizen. • Not be in default on a federal student loan or owe money on a federal student grant (or have made satisfactory arrangements to repay it.) • Be making satisfactory academic progress. • If you do not have a high school diploma or GED, you may qualify under the ATB, inquire with your Admissions or Financial Aid Officer.
How do I apply for financial aid?
Start filling out a free application for Federal Student Aid: • Each CET location has a Financial Aid Officer who will help you and your family identify sources of financial aid and fill out the required forms. • Start by filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid or come in to your local CET and speak with your Financial Aid Officer.
What if I cannot locate my GED certificate or transcript?
Locate your GED: • You can visit the official GED website to submit a transcript request form.
Am I eligible for financial aid if I don’t have a HS diploma/GED?
Eligibility requirements for federal financial aid such as Pell Grants or federal student loans state that students must have either a GED or high school diploma, or have been homeschooled at the secondary level as defined by state law. However, it may be possible to qualify for federal financial aid if a student meets all of the following: • Passes the Ability to Benefit (ATB) test or completes 225 hours or 6 credit that count towards a certificate, AND • Concurrently enrolls in the Adult Education Career Pathways program.
Where can I take the Ability to Benefit test to qualify for Financial Aid?
Independent test administrators administer the Ability to Benefit test. Ask the local admissions advisor what the testing schedule is – some CET’s test at the local center.
I took the Ability to Benefit Test but don’t have my scores, do I need to retake the test?
You can get your scores by contacting Wonderlic at (877) 605-9496. Or we may be able to access your scores. Speak with the local admissions advisor.
What is CET’s Adult Education Career Pathways program?
It is a required program for those who enroll at CET under the Ability to Benefit (ATB). The “Adult Education” part focuses on academic instruction and education services that increase a student’s ability to read, write, and speak in English and perform mathematics or other activities necessary for the attainment of a high school diploma or its recognized equivalent. The “Career Pathways” part means you are also enrolled in a program aligned with the education and skill needs of the regional economy and must have been developed and implemented in collaboration with partners in business, workforce development, and economic development.
Ready to get started?
Request information about Truck Driver at Soledad.
Truck Driver