Trucking is one of the most critical, high-demand careers in the national economy. Mountain Gateway Community College’s Class A Commercial Driver's License (CDL-A) Program is a federally approved, licensed training pathway designed for safety, flexibility, and professional skill mastery. Compliant with all Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) regulations, this course provides full behind-the-wheel preparation for the Virginia state CDL exam.
Program at a Glance
| Program Aspect | Details |
| Award / Credential | FastForward Workforce Credential / Virginia Class A CDL + Federal ELDT Certification |
| Instructional Hours | 120 Total Hours (8h Orientation + 32h Theory + 80h Behind-the-Wheel) |
| Training Locations | Clifton Forge, Buena Vista, & Roanoke |
| Training Hours | Flexible schedules: Mon–Fri (8:00 AM – 7:00 PM) | Sat–Sun (8:00 AM – 6:00 PM) |
| CLP Testing | Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) knowledge testing available on campus |
| Funding Eligibility | FastForward Eligible (Pays 2/3 of tuition for eligible VA residents) |
| Prerequisites | Age 18+, DOT Medical Exam, Drug Screening, and CLP Permit |
| Career Coach | Robin Jennings — rjennings@mgcc.edu | (540) 863-2899 |
💰 FastForward Financial Assistance Available — Pay Only 1/3 Tuition
Qualifying Virginia residents can receive FastForward state funding, which covers two-thirds of the tuition cost for this high-demand skilled trade credential. Contact our FastForward Career Coach to verify eligibility and register.
120-Hour Training Curriculum Breakdown
The program guides students step-by-step through classroom theory, range maneuvers, and real-world highway driving:
- 8 Hours — In-Person Orientation & Safety: Overview of FMCSA regulations, logbook management, vehicle inspection procedures, and program expectations.
- 32 Hours — Online & Textbook Theory: Comprehensive coursework covering transport safety, air brakes, cargo handling, trip planning, and road emergency protocols.
- 80 Hours — Behind-the-Wheel Hands-On Training: Intensive range maneuvering, pre-trip inspection drills, backing maneuvers, and real-world road driving. Includes 15 hours of practice testing and the final state driving exam.
Program Entry Requirements
Before beginning behind-the-wheel truck operations, trainees must satisfy the following prerequisite credentials:
- Age Requirement: Must be at least 18 years of age.
- DOT Medical Exam: Pass a Department of Transportation (DOT) physical medical examination and obtain a valid Medical Examiner’s Certificate.
- Drug Screening: Pass a mandatory pre-enrollment drug screening.
- Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP): Obtain a Virginia Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) prior to starting behind-the-wheel instruction. Convenient CLP knowledge testing is available directly on MGCC campuses.
Earned Credentials Upon Completion
Graduating trainees receive industry-recognized credentials that unlock immediate employment opportunities with regional and national trucking carriers:
- State-Issued Class A Commercial Driver’s License (CDL)
- Official FMCSA Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) Certificate
Program Registration & Contact
Ready to start your driving career or verify your FastForward financial assistance eligibility? Contact our Workforce Career Coach:
Robin Jennings — FastForward Career Coach
Phone: (540) 863-2899 | Email: rjennings@mgcc.edu
Office Location: Backels Hall, Clifton Forge Campus
MGCC Student Services Suite
Phone: (540) 863-2820 | Email: admissions@mgcc.edu
Location: Backels Hall, First Floor (Clifton Forge Campus)