Commercial Driver Training

A Class A CDL in New Hampshire allows you to operate combination vehicles with a Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR) of 26,001 pounds or more, as long as the vehicle you’re towing weighs over 10,000 pounds. To earn your Class A CDL, you’ll need to pass the CDL permit knowledge test, complete Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT), and successfully pass the Class A road skills test.

Training includes:

• Classroom instruction
• In-vehicle training
• Driving hours, labs, and range practice
  
  

What You Can Drive with a Class A CDL

A Class A CDL is the most versatile commercial license. It allows you to operate tractor-trailers, truck-and-trailer combinations, and other large combination vehicles. With the right endorsements, you can also drive tankers, livestock carriers, flatbeds, and more. A Class A license additionally qualifies you to operate most Class B and Class C commercial vehicles.

A Class B CDL in New Hampshire allows you to operate a single vehicle with a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of 26,001 pounds or more, as well as vehicles towing a trailer under 10,000 pounds. This category includes straight trucks, dump trucks, concrete mixers, and many types of buses. Certain vehicles such as large passenger or school buses may require additional endorsements.

Training includes:

• Classroom instruction
• In-vehicle training
• Driving hours, labs, and range practice
  
  

What You Can Drive with a CDL-B
Any single vehicle with a GVWR over 26,000 pounds. Any vehicle with a GVWR over 26,000 pounds, towing a trailer with a GVWR of 10,000 pounds or less.

Examples: Straight trucks, dump trucks and cement mixers, garbage and recycling trucks, buses (including transit, tour, and segmented buses with required endorsement), utility repair vehicles, towing vehicles 

Endorsements may be required 

• Passenger (P):For buses carrying passengers.
• School Bus (S):For operating school buses.
• Hazardous Materials (H):For transporting hazardous materials that require a placard. 
  
  

What you cannot operate with a CDL-B

• A tractor-trailer combination vehicle requires a CDL-A.
• A vehicle combination where the towed unit weighs more than 10,000 pounds. 

CDL-B to CDL-A Upgrade

For current CDL-B holders seeking a Class A license.

Program features:

• Online, self-paced ELDT Theory
• One-on-one hourly driving instruction
• Preparation for the CDL-A road exam
  
  

Pre-trip knowledge and shifting skills are required before enrollment.

Hourly CDL-A & CDL-B Training

Designed for experienced drivers who only need targeted preparation for the DMV exam.

Includes:

• Online, self-paced ELDT Theory
• A scheduled driving skills assessment
• Completion of one-on-one driving hours with CDT instructor
  
  

**In this track, the theory portion of the CDL course can be completed online as a self-paced module. Once successfully completed, the student may schedule a driving assessment with one of our driving instructors. Please note that this is an assessment only, and not a guarantee of eligibility for the hourly training program. The opportunity to enroll in this track is based solely on the instructor’s professional evaluation of the student’s current skills and their ability to meet the DMV competencies within the structure of hourly training.

Hazmat Endorsement (ELDT-Compliant)

In compliance with current ELDT requirements, WMCC offers a fully online, self-paced Hazmat theory course. Students can complete the training at their own convenience.

Endorsements for School bus and motor coach training are not currently available at WMCC.

Upon successful completion of the CDL program, students will be prepared to:

• Operate Commercial Vehicles Safely: Safely drive single-unit and combination vehicles, applying FMCSA regulations, defensive driving, and industry best practices.
• Inspect and Maintain Vehicles: Conduct thorough pre-trip, en-route, and post-trip inspections, including air brake and vehicle system checks.
• Demonstrate Advanced Driving Skills: Perform shifting, turning, backing, parking, alley docking, coupling/uncoupling, and hazard perception maneuvers with confidence.
• Plan and Manage Trips: Use trip-planning techniques, maintain logs, handle and secure cargo, and ensure proper documentation.
• Practice Professionalism: Maintain employer and public relations, demonstrate law-abiding behavior, and recognize security and safety risks, including hazardous materials when applicable.
• Prepare for Licensing and Endorsements: Meet CDL Class A or B standards, apply ELDT knowledge in practice, and successfully complete endorsements such as Hazmat.

To apply for the above courses, the following are required:

• Be at least 18 years old
• Hold a valid driver’s license
• Provide a copy of your driving record
• Pass a DOT physical examination, or have a current, unexpired medical card
• Pass a standard pre-employment drug test
  
  

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Association (FMSCA) has announced that, starting February 7^th, 2022, any CDL entry-level driver or CDL holder looking to upgrade their current license must get their training from an approved registered training provider (RTP).

WMCC is a registered training provider (RTP).

Theory classes are offered in person for the four- and five-week courses

Online theory courses are available for hourly CDL students or those who are upgrading from CDL-B to CDL-A

Hands-on experience behind the wheel with a CDT instructor using WMCC vehicles

• Participants in the Workforce Development commercial driver training courses may be eligible for Pell grants and other available scholarships. Ask the workforce development staff to learn more.
• Unemployed individuals may qualify for additional funding through private or public sources, for assistance. Contact your local NH Employment Security Office for guidance on available options.

CDL-A Non-Credit Dates (max 5 students)

CDL-B Non-credit Dates (max 5 students)

Contact [email protected]

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CCSNH Support & Services Portal

To request additional information, please contact:

Paul Mundell
Instructor of Commercial Driver Training
White Mountains Community College
2020 Riverside Drive, Berlin, NH 03570
(603) 342-3095
[email protected]

Workforce Development & Community Education Office
White Mountains Community College
2020 Riverside Drive, Berlin, NH 03570
(603) 342-3063
[email protected]