CDL
Commercial Driver's License — Class A Permit Preparation
Pages
Pre-Trip Script
Full outside, in-cab, and air brake inspection walkthrough.
Test Centers
Local PennDOT Driver License Center locations and hours.
Video Library
Curated YouTube videos organized by CDL topic.
Distracted Driving
Safety video on the dangers of distracted driving for CDL drivers.
Study Resources
Course Description
The goal of this course is to enable students to learn the theory necessary for earning a Class A CDL permit. Online content will be supplemented by hands-on activities and student projects. Ultimately the goal of the class is for students to enroll with our post-secondary partner to obtain a Class A CDL after graduation.
We will be using the content management system Driver LMS to facilitate this course.
Topics Covered
Accident Procedures · Air Brakes · Basic Maneuvers · Backing and Docking · Control Systems · Coupling and Uncoupling · Distracted Driving · Doubles and Triples Endorsements · Drugs and Alcohol · Emergency Maneuvers · External Communications · Extreme Conditions · Fatigue and Wellness Awareness · Handling and Documenting Cargo · Hazard Perception · Hazardous Materials · Hours of Service · Human Trafficking · Identification and Diagnosis of Malfunctions · Maintenance and Servicing · Medical Requirements · Night Operation · Out of Service Orders · Passenger Endorsement · Pre and Post Trip Inspections · Railroad Crossings · Shifting · Skid Control and Recovery · Speed Management · Space Management · Trip Planning · Turns and Intersections · Vehicle Communications · Vehicle Systems · Whistleblower-Coercion
Grading
Grading is based on total points accumulated during each trimester. The percentages for both trimesters will be averaged for a final grade. Points are earned through assessments, homework, and projects.
Quizzes and homework collection may or may not be announced in advance. Makeup work must be completed using the days-missed equals days-to-complete equation.
92–100 A · 84–91 B · 77–83 C · 70–76 D
Classroom Policy
Phones and wearable technology must be placed in the designated storage area before class begins. Pennsylvania follows a two-party consent law for recording — recording of any kind without the consent of all parties is prohibited. Exceptions for accommodations should be discussed with the instructor in advance.
Because this course involves being on or around commercial vehicles, absolutely no horseplay will be tolerated. Specific safety precautions will be discussed prior to each activity. Failure to follow instructions will result in lost points.