CDL

CDL Program

Truck Drivers are in HIGH DEMAND.  This 200-hour program will provide you with the knowledge and skills necessary to take the licensing exam for a Class A Commercial Driver's License (CDL) in the state of Ohio.  The training program consists of 50 hours of theoretical training at Vantage Career Center and 150 hours of hands-on training within a 100-mile radius of Van Wert, Ohio.    

Credentialing Information
Successful completers will receive a certificate of completion.  The instructor will assist the student with scheduling their CDL Skills Test for a Class A Commercial Driver's License (CDL) and provide the truck needed for the skills test.  A CDL license is required to drive a tractor-trailer combination or a truck with a capacity of at least 26,001 pounds Gross Vehicle Weight.  

Admissions Criteria
-Minimum age of 18 (those under the age of 21 may obtain an intrastate CDL only)
-Hold a valid driver's license
-Pass a Department of Transportation Physical
-Obtain Class A CDL permit
-Pass a drug screen
-No more than 6 points on a current driver's license
-No DUI/ DWI or Reckless Operation citation within the last three years
-No drug-related felonies


General Information
Daytime Classes meet Mondays through Fridays from 8:00 am to 4:30 pm (30-minute lunch)
200 total clock hours completed in 5 weeks - Max of 6 students
Start Dates for Daytime Classes:
September 14, 2026
April 26, 2027
June 1, 2027
July 12, 2027
August 16, 2027
September 27, 2027


Evening Classes meet Mondays through Fridays from 4:30 to 8:30 pm
200 total clock hours completed in 10 weeks - Max of 3 students
Start Date for Evening Classes:
January 4, 2027
March 29, 2027
June 21, 2027
September 7, 2027 


Educational Costs
Besides tuition fees, students will incur additional fees for their application, pre-admission exams, FBI/BCI background checks, drug screenings, and testing fees. Additional out-of-pocket costs may be incurred for vaccinations/titers if you cannot provide documentation of the required immunizations.

Financial Assistance:
"NEW" Commercial Truck Driver Student Aid Program - Students enrolling in Vantage's CDL training program can apply for this 50% grant and 50% loan to pay tuition fees.  Qualified completers may receive a loan forgiven if they meet requirements.  Contact the financial aid office for additional details.
    
Grants/Scholarships - Check the financial aid webpage for any grants or scholarships applicable to this program.    

VA Educational Benefits - Apply for your VA benefits online at www.va.gov/education.  Contact the Financial Aid Office to complete certification.
 
OhioMeansJobs - Financial Assistance may be available for those that qualify through your local Ohio Means Jobs (OMJ) agency.  Students must work directly with OMJ to apply.   Additional Information  
 
Employer Assistance -  CDL drivers are in high demand.  Some companies may assist with tuition fees. 

Job Outlook
To explore this career further, go to O*NET Online.   The Occupational Information Network (O*NET) is developed under the sponsorship of the U.S. Department of Labor. 
CDL Flyer

Tuition and Fees

Tuition: $5900
Books/Supplies: Included
Application Fee: $30
DOT Physical and Drug Screen: $100
Subject to change. Contact us for financial aid options.

contact us

For information about the CDL Program contact us at 419-238-5411, ext 2166.
Hartsel Bryant
CDL Training Manager
Maria Diltz
Enrollment, Assessment, and Customized Training Coordinator
Kendra Sentelik
Office Coordinator/Accreditation Liaison Officer/ VA School Certifying Official