Truck Driving Program FAQs

The Lakeshore Truck Driving Program is a 9-credit technical diploma that prepares students for entry-level careers as professional Class A commercial truck drivers. Students complete classroom theory, range training, and behind-the-wheel road training.

A Class A Commercial Driver License allows a driver to operate tractor-trailers and other combination vehicles. This program is only for a Class A CDL with no endorsements and automatic transmission only.

No. This program does not qualify for federal student aid. However, other funding resources may be available.

The program is listed on the Wisconsin Eligible Training Programs List (ETPL). This list is used by WIOA program participants when selecting training that may be funded through WIOA.

Students meet during the day for this 8-week program. The first six weeks focus on theory and over-the-road training, with the final two weeks focused on simulated and final skills testing.

Students will take their CDL road test through a vendor partnered with Lakeshore College until Lakeshore becomes certified as an examiner. There are two start dates in the fall and spring semesters.

Before starting the program, students must:

• Apply to Lakeshore College.
• Complete the Student Success Questionnaire.
• Meet with a counselor.
• Review the Truck Driving program handbook.
• Obtain a DOT Medical Card.
• Obtain a Class A Commercial Learner Permit (CLP).

Students must also be at least 18 years old when classes begin.

No. Students must obtain a Commercial Learner Permit before participating in behind-the-wheel training.

Commercial driving is federally regulated, and drivers must demonstrate they can safely operate large commercial vehicles.

A DOT Medical Card is documentation showing that a certified medical examiner has determined that an individual meets federal medical standards.

A Commercial Learner Permit (CLP) allows supervised commercial driving practice before obtaining a Commercial Driver License.

In Wisconsin, a CLP is valid for 180 days and may be renewed.

Federal law requires drug and alcohol testing because commercial drivers operate large vehicles that pose public safety risks.

Testing includes marijuana (THC), cocaine, amphetamines, opiates, and PCP.

A positive alcohol or drug test while enrolled will result in administrative withdrawal from the Truck Driving program and removal from all enrolled classes. The student will be responsible for any tuition and/or fees owed.

You may be eligible to return after completing the Return-to-Duty process. Requirements include:

• Successfully completing an evaluation and any required treatment with a licensed Substance Abuse Professional (SAP) at your own expense.
• Completing all required Return-to-Duty documentation and ensuring it is entered into the FMCSA Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse.
• Providing proof that you have completed all SAP recommendations.
• Obtaining a negative Return-to-Duty drug test before re-enrollment.
• Completing all required follow-up testing after returning to the program.

Re-admission is not guaranteed. If you test positive again, you will not be eligible to return.

A student may be eligible to receive a CLP if they have one OWI. A single OWI conviction in Wisconsin requires a one-year mandatory disqualification of commercial driving privileges.

Two or more OWIs result in a lifetime disqualification from obtaining a commercial driving license or permit.

The FMCSA Drug & Alcohol Clearinghouse is a federal database that tracks CDL drug and alcohol violations.

Behind-the-wheel training means students physically operate a commercial vehicle under instructor supervision.

Students learn pre-trip inspections, vehicle control, shifting, backing, coupling and uncoupling, turns, highway driving, defensive driving, and Hours of Service compliance.

Students will complete their CDL road test with a third-party provider during the program until Lakeshore is certified to provide skills testing.

After passing the CDL skills test, students must go to the DMV and pay the applicable CDL license fee before the license can be issued.