Commercial Driver License (CDL) Class A Training

Topics Covered  

• Introduction to the S.P.I.D.E.R. Approach  
• Welcome to S.P.I.D.E.R. Mania: Unmasking the Basics  
  • Dashboards and Deciphering Control Systems  
  • Pre and Post Trip Inspection  
  • Basics of Control: Turning and Positioning  
  • Shifting gears  
  • Backing and Docking  
  • Coupling and Uncoupling  
• S.P.I.D.E.R. Senses Tingling: The Safe Operating Show (Halt and Delve)  
  • Mastering visual search techniques, mirrors, and intersections  
• S.P.I.D.E.R. – Safe Operating Procedures  
  • Warding off distractions  
  • Mastering space and speed management   
  • Night operations and extreme driving conditions  
• S.P.I.D.E.R. in Action: From Zero to Hero in Advanced Operation Procedures  
  • Spotting hazards and mastering skid control  
  • Railroad-highway grade crossings  
• S.P.I.D.E.R. 4.0 – When Malfunctions Attack  
  • Diagnosing and reporting malfunctions  
  • Roadside inspections and vehicle maintenance  
• S.P.I.D.E.R. Unplugged: When CDL Meets Non-driving Activities  
  • Handling and documenting cargo  
  • Environmental compliance issues  
  • Hours of service requirements  
  • Fatigue and wellness awareness  
• S.P.I.D.E.R. – Non-driving Activities  
  • External communications  
  • Whistleblower  
  • Trip planning  
  • CDL Drugs & Alcohol  
  • Medical Requirements  
• Final Exam  

What You’ll Learn 

By the end of this course, you will be able to: 

• Understand the purpose and importance of CDL training. 
• Identify the key components and requirements for obtaining a CDL A license. 
• Recognize the various controls and indicators on the vehicle dashboard. 
• Demonstrate the correct use of vehicle control systems for safe operation. 
• Perform comprehensive pre-trip inspections to ensure vehicle safety. 
• Conduct thorough post-trip inspections to identify any issues needing attention. 
• Execute fundamental vehicle control techniques, including steering, braking, and accelerating. 
• Demonstrate proper shifting techniques for manual and automatic transmissions. 
• Understand the mechanics and importance of operating transmissions correctly. 
• Perform safe and accurate backing maneuvers. 
• Dock the vehicle correctly and safely in various scenarios. 
• Execute proper coupling and uncoupling procedures for trailers. 
• Identify potential hazards and safety checks during coupling and uncoupling. 
• Use effective visual scanning techniques to monitor surroundings continuously. 
• Identify potential hazards early through proactive scanning. 
• Utilize communication tools and signals effectively with other road users. 
• Understand the importance of clear communication in maintaining safety. 
• Recognize the dangers of distracted driving and implement strategies to avoid distractions. 
• Maintain appropriate speeds based on road conditions, traffic, and vehicle load. 
• Manage the space around the vehicle to prevent collisions and ensure safe maneuvering. 
• Implement safe driving practices during night operations, including proper use of lights and reduced speed. 
• Adapt driving techniques to handle extreme weather and road conditions safely. 
• Develop the ability to anticipate and recognize potential hazards on the road. 
• Understand the causes and prevention of jackknifing and other emergencies. 
• Follow safety procedures for crossing railroad-highway grades to avoid accidents. 
• Identify common vehicle malfunctions and understand diagnostic procedures. 
• Prepare for and pass roadside inspections by understanding inspection criteria. 
• Perform routine maintenance tasks to ensure vehicle longevity and reliability. 
• Safely handle and document cargo to ensure compliance with regulations. 
• Understand and comply with environmental regulations affecting CDL drivers. 
• Adhere to hours-of-service regulations to prevent fatigue and ensure safety. 
• Recognize signs of fatigue and implement strategies to maintain wellness. 
• Follow correct procedures in the event of a crash to ensure safety and compliance. 
• Communicate effectively with dispatch, law enforcement, and other relevant parties. 
• Understand the protections and procedures related to whistleblowing and coercion. 
• Plan trips effectively to ensure timely and safe delivery of goods. 
• Recognize the effects of drugs and alcohol on driving performance and adhere to regulations. 
• Meet all medical requirements necessary for CDL certification and safe driving.