HUNTSVILLE, Ala. — Calhoun Community College, in partnership with Skills for Success, is providing Alabama residents with a chance to earn a Class B Commercial Driver's License (CDL) at no cost. This opportunity is available through the college's CDL Training Program, with slots filled on a first-come, first-served basis. Interested individuals are encouraged to apply as soon as possible.
Training sessions are scheduled for October 14-25 and November 11-22, 2024, at Calhoun’s Huntsville Campus, with final skills testing taking place at the Decatur Campus. Instructors, who have over 18 years of commercial driving experience, will teach the program, which combines self-paced online learning with hands-on, behind-the-wheel training. After completing the online portion, students will participate in practical driving sessions leading to their Class B CDL skills test.
Doug Brazier, Calhoun’s Workforce Solutions director, highlighted the program's benefits. “This fast-paced training is ideal for individuals who may not have the financial resources for commercial driving training but want to quickly earn their CDL to take advantage of the numerous driving positions across the country,” said Brazier. “Alabama is facing a serious shortage of skilled drivers with that number continuing to grow, but programs like this are designed to help bridge that gap. Commercial driving not only offers great pay but also the chance to travel or stay local, depending on the job,” Brazier added.
According to Calhoun, the Skills for Success initiative funds this program, which boasts a 98% success rate and ensures students are well-prepared for their skills test. The entire course can be completed in just two weeks, offering a quick pathway to a career in commercial driving.
To enroll, students must provide:
- Class B Learner’s Permit
- Valid Base Driver’s License
- DOT Physical and Medical Examiner’s Certificate
- A clean driving record and a DOT drug screen, both dated within 30 days of the course start date.
Launched in 2022, the Skills for Success initiative collaborates with state businesses to provide free training in high-demand fields. To learn more about Calhoun’s CDL program and register, visit here or contact the CDL Program Office at 256-306-2928.
