Starting CDL school is exciting — but also full of unknowns. What will you be doing each week? Will you feel ready to drive a big rig by the end? At American Truck Training, we’ve designed our program to guide you step-by-step so you’re confident behind the wheel and at the testing center. Whether you’re switching careers or chasing a lifelong dream, here’s what you can expect during CDL training on your journey to becoming a professional truck driver.
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Week 1: Classroom Foundations
Focus: CDL permit prep, safety regulations, hours of service, logbooks, map reading.
What You’ll Do: Your first week is all about building a strong foundation. You’ll dive into the rules of the road, federal safety regulations, and the basics of operating a commercial vehicle. Our experienced instructors break down complex topics into easy-to-understand lessons. You’ll also learn how to read and maintain logbooks, understand hours-of-service rules, and navigate using maps — essential skills for life on the road.
By the end of the week, you’ll be ready to take your CDL permit test. Most students pass on their first try thanks to our focused instruction and practice tests. Daily classes with instructors who break things down clearly. You’ll take your permit test by the end of the week.
Week 2: Basic Skills on the Yard
Focus: Pre-trip inspection, straight-line backing, shifting (manual/automatic), truck controls.
What You’ll Do: Hands-on training begins! You’ll start with the pre-trip inspection — a critical part of the CDL exam and daily life as a driver. You’ll learn how to check the truck’s systems and components to ensure everything is safe and road-ready.
Next, you’ll begin mastering basic control skills like straight-line backing and shifting gears. Whether you’re training on a manual or automatic transmission, our instructors will help you get comfortable with the truck’s controls. This week is all about building confidence and control in a safe, supervised environment.
Week 3: Advanced Maneuvers
Focus: Offset backing, alley docking, turning techniques.
What You’ll Do: Hands-on training begins! You’ll start with the pre-trip inspection — a critical part of the CDL exam and daily life as a driver. You’ll learn how to check the truck’s systems and components to ensure everything is safe and road-ready.
Next, you’ll begin mastering basic control skills like straight-line backing and shifting gears. Whether you’re training on a manual or automatic transmission, our instructors will help you get comfortable with the truck’s controls. This week is all about building confidence and control in a safe, supervised environment.
Week 4: Road Driving & Onsite CDL Testing
Focus: Real-world driving, test prep, and passing your CDL exam.
What You’ll Do: This is the week when everything comes together. Hit the road with an instructor and practice driving in real-world conditions — city streets, highways, and everything in between. You’ll learn how to handle traffic, lane changes, and defensive driving techniques.
Most importantly, you’ll take your CDL test onsite with one of our certified examiners. That means no waiting for a state appointment or traveling to a third-party testing site. We make it as convenient and stress-free as possible.
Bonus: Job Placement Support
After Graduation: Your journey doesn’t end when you pass the test. Our job placement team is here to help you find the right opportunity. Whether you’re looking for local, regional, or over-the-road (OTR) positions, we work with a network of trusted carriers who are ready to hire new drivers.
We’ll help you polish your resume, prepare for interviews, and connect with employers who value the training you received at American Truck Training.
The four weeks go by fast — but they’re packed with everything you need to launch a new career. With experienced instructors, hands-on training, and onsite testing, American Truck Training sets you up for success.
If you’re ready to take the first step toward a high-demand, high-reward trucking career, apply now. Your future on the open road starts here.