CDL Training Programs at Advanced Career Institute
Truck Driving Schools in California & Nevada
Advanced Career Institute has helped thousands of students earn their Class A CDL and launch rewarding careers in the trucking industry.
Whether you’ve never been behind the wheel of a big rig, or you just need a refresher, we have a truck driver training program for you.
Our CDL training programs are nationally accredited by the Council on Occupational Education (COE) and meet all federal requirements, so your training counts when it’s time to get your license.
Why Thousands of Truck Drivers Got Their Start at ACI
Choosing the right CDL school matters. Here’s what makes ACI different from other CDL programs in California and Nevada:
Experienced Instructors: Our instructors bring real-world commercial driving experience into the classroom and onto the practice yard. Learn from professionals who have been behind the wheel of the same rigs you’ll operate on the job.
Hands-On, Behind-the-Wheel Training: CDL training isn’t just reading and tests – it’s real practice in a real truck. puts you behind the wheel so you graduate ready to handle pre-trip inspections, backing, coupling, and highway driving with confidence.
Get Job Assistance: After you earn your Class A CDL, our job placement team connects you with regional and national trucking carriers actively hiring ACI graduates. Our Trucking Partners include some of the top companies in the industry.
Multiple Convenient Locations: With four CDL training campuses – Fresno, Merced, Visalia, and Las Vegas – there’s likely an ACI truck driving school near me.
Hear What Graduates Say About Advanced Career Institute
Class A CDL Training Programs at ACI
ACI currently offers three Class A CDL training programs to meet different experience levels and career goals. All programs are offered at the Fresno, Merced, Visalia, and Las Vegas campuses unless noted.
Professional Truck Driver Program
Duration: 160 Clock Hours (4 Weeks)
Campuses: Fresno | Merced | Visalia | Las Vegas
This is our flagship CDL training program – a comprehensive, entry-level course built for students with no prior commercial driving experience. If you’re new to trucking, this is where you begin.
What you’ll learn:
- DMV Commercial Permit Preparation (written exam readiness)
- Basic Vehicle Operations and Controls
- Safe Operating Procedures and Federal Regulations (FMCSA)
- Pre-Trip Vehicle Inspections
- Vehicle Maintenance Fundamentals
- Emergency Maneuvers and Defensive Driving
- All behind-the-wheel skills required for the California and Nevada DMV Class A CDL road test
When you complete the training, you’ll be prepared to take your CDL written permit exam and your DMV behind-the-wheel skills test to earn your Class A Commercial Driver’s License (CDL).
Learn More About the Professional Truck Driver Program
Advanced Professional Truck Driver Program
Duration: 240 Clock Hours (6 Weeks)
Campuses: Fresno | Merced | Visalia | Las Vegas
Want more time to practice before your test? This program covers everything in the 4-week course – plus extra behind-the-wheel hours so you can build real confidence.
- Want more practice backing, turning, and maneuvering
- Prefer a slower pace with more repetition
- Just want extra time to feel fully ready before your DMV test
No prior experience needed. You’ll finish ready to take your Class A CDL permit exam and DMV skills test.
Discover more about the Advanced Truck Driver Program
Ag Transportation Program
Duration: 600 Clock Hours (20 Weeks)
Campuses: Visalia | Las Vegas
Our Ag Transportation program is for students who want to work in the agriculture industry. You’ll get the full Class A CDL training – plus specialized instruction in hauling ag products like milk, produce, and livestock equipment.
You’ll finish the program ready to test for a Class A CDL with Endorsements, with a focus on Ag transportation.
Learn more about starting a career in Ag Transportation
Already Have Your Permit? Or Need a Refresher? Get Your Skills Test-Ready.
CDL Refresher Course
Duration: 120 Clock Hours (3 Weeks)
Campuses: Fresno | Merced | Visalia | Las Vegas
If you’ve already passed your written CDL permit exam but you haven’t had enough time behind-the-wheel, this course is for you.
To enroll in our refresher course, you’ll need:
- A current California or Nevada Class A CDL permit
- A current DOT Medical Card
- Little to no prior experience in a commercial vehicle
Three weeks of focused, behind-the-wheel practice will get you ready to pass your DMV CDL road test.
Check out how to get started with our CDL Refresher Course
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Class A CDL?
A Class A Commercial Drivers License allows you to operate combination vehicles – like a tractor-trailer – with a total weight of 26,001 pounds or more. It opens the door to the widest range of truck driving jobs.
Do I need experience to enroll in CDL school?
No experience is required for any of our Class A CDL programs. If you have a driver’s license and meet the basic eligibility requirements, you can apply.
What are the requirements to enroll in CDL training?
To enroll in CDL training at ACI, you’ll generally need to meet these basic admissions requirements:
- Be at least 18 years old (21+ to drive interstate or haul hazardous materials)
- Hold a valid driver’s license
- Have a valid Social Security Number
- Be able to pass a DOT physical exam and drug test
- Have a clean driving record
What is ELDT and do I need it to get my CDL?
Yes. Since February 2022, federal law requires all first-time CDL applicants to complete Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) from a federally approved provider before they can take their CDL skills test at the DMV
How much does CDL training cost?
CDL training costs vary by school and program length. At ACI, tuition assistance options – including grants, scholarships, veteran’s benefits, and financing plans – may be available to help offset the cost.
When do CDL Classes start at ACI?
New CDL classes start on a rolling basis throughout the year at all four of our campuses. To learn about our next class start date, give us a call at one of our locations.
Classes start regularly at all four campuses — and spots fill up fast. Whether you’re in Fresno, Merced, Visalia, or Las Vegas, we have a program that fits your schedule and your goals.
Start Your CDL Training Today!