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Semi truck going under an interstate bridge at sunset

Commercial Driver's License Training

Questions about CDL licences and courses? Call 605-367-8439 or email cdl@southeasttech.edu.

At Southeast Technical College, we have options to get you on the road with your Class A or Class B CDL, making money. Choose from a comprehensive, 4-week class that covers all aspects of obtaining your Class A CDL. Or, choose the components and certifications you need from our flexible pathway on an as-needed basis, drawing from your previous experience or employee training. 

Southeast Tech's CDL program is certified to provide Entry Level Driver Training regulations set by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. Your duties as a trained CDL driver might include: 

  • Driving long distances 
  • Picking up / delivering cargo 
  • Keeping a log of working hours  
  • Proper vehicle maintenance 
  • Following safety / traffic laws 

Types of Drivers

LONG DISTANCE DRIVERS

Known as long haul over-the-road drivers, long-distance drivers operate heavy trucks and may make a one-day round trip or have a layover until the next day. Others may travel to more distant points and be on the road for a week or longer. 

LOCAL DRIVERS

Local drivers operate light, medium and heavy trucks. Their assignments may include pick-up and delivery operations, route sales or customer delivery. They have more contact with customers than long-distance drivers and usually make many stops each day. Those in route sales need selling and driving skills.

SPECIALIZED DRIVERS

Specialized drivers handle certain types of equipment used in specialized trucking operations, both long distance and local. Examples are double and triple trailers, auto carriers, tankers and heavy special equipment that utilize special equipment requiring extra training to understand and operate.

OWNER-OPERATORS OR INDEPENDENT DRIVERS 

Independent drivers own their own equipment and operate a small business. They make up a large segment of the long-distance trucking industry. Often, they begin as salaried drivers, then purchase a truck and become an independent contractor. They haul freight for one or more companies. Many teams establish contracts with moving companies.

Why STC?

At STC in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, this program focuses on the skills you need to be a safe, knowledgeable commercial vehicle driver. 

Commercial Driving License Courses Available

Southeast Technical College offers two options for Class A and Class B training. Our Traditional Pathway is an all-inclusive course intended primarily for beginning drivers. Students will be on campus Monday-Thursday for 4 weeks. Flex-Path Training is generally for applicants who have some experience around equipment or have employer support, but can be completed by any individual who has a CDL permit and a strong drive to succeed. Options are offered every two weeks. 

Traditional CDL Class A Course   Flex-Path Training

If you are interested in more information about our current class schedules, please email us at CDL@southeasttech.edu or call 605-367-8439.

Upcoming CDL Courses

Job Outlook  

Cost, Financial Assistance and Sponsorships

STC does not offer Federal financial aid for CDL courses, however funding may be available through the South Dakota Department of Labor, Sioux Falls Development Foundation's UpSkill programs and industry sponsorship opportunities facilitated by STC. 

Industry Sponsorships

STC is working to bridge the gap between the businesses that need CDL drivers and the individuals that would like to become commercial vehicle operators. If you would like more information on this upcoming opportunity, please complete our information request form. 

South Dakota Department of Labor and Regulation (DLR): Traditional course students can apply for sponsorship through DLR, they do not accept flex-path students. Employers who are paying for a student’s tuition may be eligible for UpSkill grants to match payments. Employers will need to submit their paid invoices to UpSkill but can get the forms from STC. (STC does not submit these on behalf of employers).

South Dakota Department of Labor

Sioux Falls Development Foundation: STC is working in partnership with the Sioux Falls Development Foundation and the South Dakota Governor's Office of Economic Development to increase number of CDL drivers in our community.

Sioux Falls Development Foundation CDL Cost Sharing

Other Programs Related to CDL licensure

If you’re interested in a transportation technology career, you might also be interested in these other programs at Southeast Tech: 

Automotive Technology   Diesel Technology   Collision Repair & Refinish Technology