Class B commercial drivers operate essential regional transport vehicles, including dump trucks, delivery trucks, passenger buses, and box trucks. Mountain Gateway Community College’s Class B Commercial Driver's License (CDL-B) Program is a state-licensed, federally compliant training path built for safety, flexibility, and practical skill mastery. Fully aligned with Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) regulations, this program prepares trainees to pass the Virginia state CDL-B exam and enter a stable, high-demand career.
Program at a Glance
| Program Aspect | Details |
| Award / Credential | FastForward Workforce Credential / Virginia Class B CDL + Federal ELDT Certificates |
| Instructional Hours | 80 Total Hours (8h Orientation + 27h Theory + 45h 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.
80-Hour Training Curriculum Breakdown
The program guides students step-by-step through classroom theory, range maneuvers, and real-world driving evaluations:
- 8 Hours — In-Person Orientation & Safety: Program overview, FMCSA regulations, vehicle inspection principles, and road safety basics.
- 27 Hours — Online Theory Coursework: Self-paced modules covering vehicle operation theory, air brake systems, cargo safety, and transport laws.
- 45 Hours — Behind-the-Wheel Range & Road Practice: Intensive hands-on maneuvers, vehicle control drills, and real-world driving. Includes 10 hours of skill evaluations and the 5-hour final state driving exam.
Program Entry Requirements
Before starting behind-the-wheel instruction, trainees must satisfy the following prerequisite requirements:
- Age Requirement: Must be at least 18 years of age.
- DOT Physical 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 beginning truck operations. Convenient CLP knowledge testing is available directly on MGCC campuses.
Earned Credentials Upon Completion
Graduates of the program receive industry-recognized credentials required for immediate commercial driving employment:
- State-Issued Class B Commercial Driver’s License (CDL)
- Official FMCSA ELDT Theory Certificate
- Official FMCSA ELDT Course Completion Certificate
Career Opportunities
Class B license holders operate a wide variety of commercial motor vehicles across local and regional delivery, construction, public transit, and municipal service sectors.
Potential Career Pathways:
- Commercial Box Truck / Delivery Driver
- Dump Truck Operator & Construction Hauler
- School Bus & Transit Bus Operator
- Concrete Mixer Driver
- Utility & Municipal Maintenance Vehicle Operator
Program Registration & Contact
Ready to start your commercial 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)