An introduction to the truck driving industry. Review of commercial transportation along with driver qualifications. This course covers the material required to obtain a commercial license permit (CLP): the general knowledge, air brakes, and combination vehicle sections of the South Dakota Commercial Driver's License Manual.

The functions and importance of the common controls and instruments found in the today's tractors and straight trucks. Topics include the identification of primary and secondary vehicle control systems and the acceptable operating range for these systems, including warning lights and alarms. Basic and preventative maintenance and specific vehicle inspections will be covered.

An introductory course beginning with safely entering and exiting a commercial vehicle.  Other topics include basic control, gear shifting patterns, common shifting errors, double clutching, coupling and uncoupling, backing principles, backing maneuvers, docking principles and procedures for parking. Students will spend time in the driving simulator as well as behind the wheel of a commercial motor vehicle (CMV).  A CDL Class A permit is required.

Governing entities and regulations that affect commercial drivers and commercial motor vehicles.  Topics include reasoning for hours of service and use of log books/electronic logging devices (ELDs), understanding the effects of fatigue and how to avoid them, managing life on the road, distracted driving, violations, public relations, driver wellness, whistle-blower protections and Compliance Safety Accountability (CSA).

Determining the most effective, efficient, safe and legal route between two points. A detail-oriented approach to cargo documentation, safe handling of cargo, weight limits and restrictions, hazardous materials and bridge clearance restrictions is essential to a successful, professional delivery.

Simulator training to increase awareness and preparation for adverse weather conditions (including snow, ice, rain, and fog), freeing a stuck vehicle, breakdowns, mountain driving, night driving and hazard perception.  Students will gain an understanding of causes of skidding and jackknifing and how to use emergency maneuvers to avoid them.  Time will be spent in the driving simulator as well as behind the wheel of a commercial motor vehicle (CMV).  A CDL Class A permit is required.

Operation of a commercial motor vehicle (CMV) in a variety of driving situations. Activities in this course include coupling and uncoupling, speed management, space management, vehicle communication, visual search and accident procedures. Students will spend time in the driving simulator as well as behind the wheel of a commercial vehicle. A CDL Class A permit is required.

Operation of a commercial motor vehicle (CMV) with an experienced Driver Trainer for an eight-week internship. During this internship, students will apply the knowledge and skills that they obtained in the learning environment at Mitchell Tech. Students will also gain additional driving skills from an experienced Driver Trainer. Satisfactory completion of assignments will be required during the internship using online computer-based training lessons.