Essex Community College

Introduction to Community College of Baltimore County Essex
Commercial Vehicle Operator A Class, Continuing Education Certificate

CCBC's Commercial Vehicle Operator A Class program prepares students to test for the Maryland CDL-A license. Students will also be awarded a Continuing Education Workforce Training Certificate, and will have access to a Continuing Education academic record (transcript). Plus, students will be awarded various CDL certificates (e.g. Defensive Driving and New Driver Training).

What are the CCBC CDL-A Course Requirements and Length?

The Maryland MVA's CDL-A licensing exam is taken after the course. It includes pre-trip inspections, range maneuvers, and completion of a road test of 14+ miles.

Requirements:

• Minimum age of 21 (commercial drivers must be 21 years of age to drive across state lines)
• Recommended: High School Diploma or GED (highly preferred, but not required)
• Students must have a Maryland Class C Driver's license in order to register for the CDL-A Class Course.
• A DOT Physical Card is also required. Note: CCBC offers an optional Learner's Permit Preparation course to help students to prepare to write the MD CDL Learner's Permit test.

Program Length:

• CDL- A: 280 hours
• Courses are offered at Security Square Mall in partnership with North American Trade Schools.
• LP Prep (optional): 2 weeks
• Weekday (M-Th) courses last 10 weeks.
• Weekend (F-Sa) courses last 20 weeks

How to Apply for the CCBC CDL-A Program

To apply, go to CCBC and complete the CCBC Non-Credit Workforce Training Certificate application. An email will then be sent with program information and any additional requirements necessary to apply for the program.

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Provisional Entry – Valid Maryland Class C Driver's license and DOT Physical Card required at registration.

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  Essex Community College
  7201 Rossville Boulevard
  Baltimore, MD 21237
  443-840-5835

Find CDL Training Through Paid CDL Training Programs

Did you know there are also paid CDL training programs available? These are truck driving schools which are owned and operated by trucking companies. They're also known as company-sponsored CDL training programs. These programs can often turn out to be free CDL training! Check out that link to learn more.

Independent truck driving schools and company-sponsored schools are both worthy of consideration and are covered thoroughly in our truck driver's career guide.