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Since its inception in 2002, American Driver Training Academy has set a standard for excellence in CDL training in Southeastern Pennsylvania, including the Philadelphia metro area. Founded with the vision of overcoming the industry’s challenge of finding skilled truck drivers, our school prides itself on offering top-tier education and training that equips graduates for rewarding careers in commercial truck driving.
At American Driver Training Academy, we offer extensive training programs that cover all the necessary skills and knowledge to obtain a CDL license. From pre-trip inspection to hazardous materials handling and shifting techniques, our curriculum is designed to ensure you are road-ready and have the skills needed to succeed. Students can opt for the Class A CDL course, which includes training in high-demand skills such as trip planning and vehicle maintenance, ensuring a well-rounded education.
Our instructors are seasoned professionals from the trucking sector, bringing years of driving and teaching experience to the classroom. They are dedicated to providing the best training, focusing on safety, efficiency, and compliance with industry standards. Students will learn the majority of the time outside the classroom with hands-on driving practice, fully preparing them for real-world challenges.
We understand that our students have diverse needs and schedules. That’s why we offer flexible training options to accommodate everyone. New classes are regularly scheduled, allowing students to start their training at times that best suit their individual circumstances. Schedules include a weekday option, Monday to Friday, 7:00 AM to 3:00 PM, a weekend option, Saturday to Sunday, 7:00 AM to 3:00 PM, as well as a night class option, Monday to Thursday, 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM.
Located in New Castle, DE, our truck driving school near Philadelphia is easily accessible for residents throughout the tri-state area. Whether you’re transitioning from another career or looking to start your first job, our location is perfectly situated for commuters.
As a woman-owned business, American Driver Training Academy is proud to provide the industry with skilled drivers from all different backgrounds, providing the tools they need to become successful truck drivers. We are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive environment where all students can thrive.
Are you ready to steer your way to a successful career as a truck driver? Contact us today to learn more about our courses, schedule a visit, or enroll in our upcoming classes. A rewarding career in the trucking industry starts here!
To obtain a CDL license in Pennsylvania, applicants must first meet specific requirements including being at least 18 years old for intrastate driving (21 for interstate), having a valid Pennsylvania driver’s license, and passing a DOT physical exam. The process includes completing CDL training at a certified truck driving school like American Driver Training Academy in Philadelphia. Students must pass both knowledge and skills tests, which cover pre-trip inspection, trip planning, and shifting techniques among other essential skills needed for commercial truck driving.
Anyone who operates a commercial vehicle in the United States must have a CDL. This includes vehicles with a gross weight of 26,001 pounds or more, vehicles designed to transport 16 or more passengers (including the driver), or any size vehicle used to transport hazardous materials in quantities requiring placarding. Obtaining a CDL through a recognized Philadelphia truck driving school ensures that drivers have the training and knowledge necessary for a successful career in the trucking industry.
All CDL holders in Pennsylvania are required to submit a self-certification form regarding their type of vehicle operation. This determines if a medical certification or waiver is needed. Those enrolled in CDL training programs, such as at our truck driving school, will be guided by experienced instructors on how to complete and submit these forms correctly as part of their education.
Yes, there are specific exemptions to the CDL requirements, including drivers of farm vehicles, emergency vehicles, military vehicles, and certain government vehicles. These drivers do not need to complete commercial truck driving training programs for their specific roles but still must train and obtain proper licensure relevant to their vehicle operation requirements.
There are three primary classes of CDLs: Class A, Class B, and Class C. Class A CDL allows the holder to operate trucks with trailers or any combination of vehicles with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 26,001 pounds or more. Class B is for single vehicles with the same GVWR or heavier, and Class C covers vehicles not classified under Class A or B but are meant to transport 16 or more passengers or hazardous materials.
CDL endorsements are necessary for operating specialized types of commercial vehicles and transporting various loads, such as hazardous materials (H), tank vehicles (N), passenger vehicles (P), and school buses (S). Each requires additional tests. Training at Philadelphia’s truck driving school covers these endorsements, particularly focusing on skills like handling hazardous materials and understanding passenger safety procedures.
The three tests for a CDL permit in PA include the General Knowledge Test, Air Brakes Test, and the Combination Vehicles Test. These exams assess a student’s readiness for truck driving and ensure they possess the skills required for commercial truck driving. At American Driver Training Academy, we give our students the information they need to study successfully for their tests.
For a CDL in PA, you must take and pass the General Knowledge Test, Air Brakes Test, and depending on your intended vehicle type, the Combination Vehicles Test. Additional endorsement tests may be required depending on the specific driver roles and responsibilities, such as transporting hazardous materials or passengers.
Several factors can prevent you from obtaining a CDL in Pennsylvania, including not meeting the age requirement, failing the required DOT physical exam, having a poor driving record, or being disqualified due to alcohol or drug offenses. Comprehensive training programs at truck driving schools help ensure that students meet all regulatory and health standards before applying for their CDL.