Non Tractor Trailer
Class "A" Course
Who Should Attend   Novice drivers with CDL and more than 1 year experience with non-tractor trailer
What training Method:   behind-the-wheel, simulator, classroom, skills course and lab
Major Training Components:   defensive driving, pre-trip, general knowledge, backing, Basic Hours of service, road-city, rural and mountain
Length of Time   50 hours
When:   weekly, call for times

This course is designed for a variety of non-tractor trailer drivers, including:

  • New hires who have not yet been evaluated but will require a refresher course
  • Drivers who have completed the Driver Evaluation where skill enhancements have been recommended
  • A driver who has been involved in an accident

Prerequisite: All drivers will be required to have a minimum of a CDL Permit from their respective states and current DOT physical prior to class start

The course content includes (but is not limited to):

Mountain training

This course when possible will include driving over some of the nation's most aggressive mountain terrain . Instructors will work on:
    Gearing - selecting the proper gear for the grade
    Braking - stab versus snub, when and where to use
    Engine brakes - the purpose and limitations
    Tractor brakes - preventing brake overheating
    Trailer brakes - when to use and how to apply
    Escape ramps - how to use them and when
    Engine performance - getting the most power
    Winter - chains, road closures, parking safely


Pre-trip vehicle inspection

Using the State CDL Exam criteria, students will become
proficient in the knowledge and skills of a proper pre-trip
inspection.


Backing

Drivers will spend the necessary time in the backing course working on skills and techniques for maneuvering a vehicle in limited areas.


Shifting

Drivers will spend the necessary time working in the Simulator refining progressive shifting techniques.

Road

Drivers will spend the necessary time on the road with a certified
instructor working on the following:
    Proper gear selection
    Shifting techniques
    Progressive shifting
    Use of mirrors
    Proper use of clutch brake
    Braking and control
    Speed and space management
    Turning and selecting lanes
    Aggressive traffic
    Heavy traffic in congested areas
    Narrow two lane mountain roads (when possible)
    Off road conditions, mountain areas, etc.
    Port of Entry permits and documentation
    Log books and related placards


4 hour Defensive Driver Training

Drivers who have not attended the 4-hour DDC course will be required to complete this course as part of their evaluation. Those drivers who have completed DDC will spend additional time in other sections, as determined by the instructor.

 

The course will provide accurate, up-to-date knowledge, skills, techniques, and real world tools that every driver can take with them. Dynamic PowerPoint presentations bring high definition digital graphics to the course.

Certified Trainers with years of driving experience conduct the courses using handout materials, self-evaluations, and a final written exam.  Student participation assures that the classes are interactive and engaging. Courses are well presented, full of information, and delivered in a professional manner.

At the conclusion of the course, each student will complete an evaluation that will be used for course improvement. A "Certificate of Completion" will be presented to students satisfactorily completing the course. Grades, performance charts, and recommendations on all participants will be promptly posted on our secure web reporting site at www.centerfortransportationsafety.com .

Any students who appear to pose a safety risk will be reported immediately to their direct supervisors. Recommendations for assisting the driver will be provided.