Driver Safety Training Courses Online

What is driver's ed? 

Driver's education for commercial driver’s licenses is a specialized training program designed to teach new and aspiring commercial drivers the essential skills and knowledge required to operate large commercial vehicles safely and efficiently. Courses cover topics such as vehicle inspection, handling different types of cargo, understanding commercial driving regulations, and mastering advanced driving techniques specific to commercial vehicles. 

What is defensive driving? 

Defensive driving for commercial drivers involves advanced driving techniques and strategies designed to anticipate and respond to potential hazards on the road. This type of training focuses on maintaining a safe following distance, recognizing and reacting to dangerous driving behaviors of other motorists, managing the larger blind spots of commercial vehicles, and handling adverse weather conditions. The goal is to reduce the risk of accidents and ensure the safety of the driver, cargo, and other road users. 

What is distracted driving? 

Distracted driving refers to any activity that diverts a driver's attention away from the primary task of driving. This can include using a mobile phone, adjusting the GPS, eating or drinking, or interacting with in-cab devices. Given the size and weight of commercial vehicles, distracted driving poses a significant risk, potentially leading to severe accidents. Commercial drivers must adhere to strict regulations to minimize distractions and ensure focused, safe driving. 

How long is a defensive driving course? 

A defensive driving course for commercial drivers typically lasts 2 to 8 hours. Depending on the program structure, these courses can be completed in a single day or spread over multiple sessions. Some courses may offer online components for added flexibility, allowing drivers to complete theoretical parts at their own pace before attending in-person practical sessions. 

How long is driver's ed? 

For regular motorists, driver's education programs typically include about 30 hours of classroom instruction and 6 to 60 hours of behind-the-wheel training depending on the state requirements. These courses cover basic driving skills, traffic laws, and safe driving practices to prepare new drivers for their initial licensing exam. 

For entry-level commercial drivers, the education program is more intensive, usually consisting of 30 to 40 hours of classroom instruction and 20 to 30 hours of behind-the-wheel training. These programs focus on the fundamentals of operating commercial vehicles, including vehicle inspection, basic maneuvering, and understanding commercial driving regulations. 

For experienced Commercial Motor Vehicle (CMV) drivers, advanced training programs may be required, which include additional modules on specific skills such as hazardous materials handling, operating specialized equipment, and advanced defensive driving techniques. These programs can vary in length but often add several days to weeks of training to ensure drivers meet the higher safety and regulatory standards required for specialized commercial driving. 

How old do you have to be to take driver's ed? 

The minimum age to enroll in driver's education varies by state, but it is typically between 14 and 16 years old. Many states allow teens to start classroom instruction at 14 or 15, with behind-the-wheel training beginning at 15 or 16, depending on local regulations. 

To enroll in commercial driver's ed, you generally need to be at least 18 years old. However, to drive a commercial vehicle across state lines (interstate driving) or transport hazardous materials, you must be at least 21 years old. Age requirements can vary slightly depending on state regulations and the specific type of commercial driving you intend to pursue.