Introduction 

The primary goal of this training is to prepare drivers to meet the New Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) that went into effect on February 7, 2022. The ELDT Federal regulations has established a training standard for CDL applicants. Student drivers must successfully complete this training before they will be permitted to take the CDL Skills Driving test. 

Georgia DDS Requirements

• All applicant must hold a valid Georgia Commercial Instructional Permit (CLP) prior to starting training.
• Must pass a vision exam, DOT Physical, and Drug and Alcohol screening.
• Drivers are required to hold a CLP for 14 days before being able to apply for a CDL.
• All applicants must be able to read and understand the English language.
• Applicants must operate the appropriate class of vehicle and be accompanied by an instructor who is licensed to drive that class of vehicle.
• Age Restrictions –
  • Applicants between the age of 18 to 21 will be restricted to drive in Georgia only (Intrastate). On or after their 21st birthday, the driver can visit a Georgia DDS service center to have the “GA Only” restriction removed.

Training Overview 

Over the course of 3 to 4 weeks an expert HOFT instructor will educate you on how to effectively drive a manual transmission commercial vehicle. We will cover both the Theory (classroom/study guide) and Behind the Wheel (BTW) instructions on how to be a successful CDL driver. Throughout the training, a HOFT instructor will help you learn and prepare on how to:

• Understand the applicable Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulations.
• Proficiency on driving a manual transmission semi-truck.
• Pass the state CDL skills (Pre/Post Trip Inspection) and road test.
• Control Systems/Dashboard
  • Engine Controls
  • Primary and Secondary Vehicle Controls
  • Vehicle Instruments
  • Warning Devices
• Pre and Post Trip Inspection as mandated by FMCSR.
  • Pre-Trip Inspection (392.7, §392.8, §396.13)
  • On-The-Road (end-route) Inspection (§392.9)
  • Post-Trip Inspection (§396.11)
• Basic Controls
  • Starting, Warming Up, and Shutting Down
  • Putting the into forward motion and stopping
  • Straight Line Backing
  • Turning
• Shifting/Operating Transmission
  • Key Elements of Shifting
  • Shifting Gears
• Backing and Docking
  • General Backing and other backing maneuvers
• Coupling and Uncoupling
• Visual Search
  • Scanning your Entire Sight Area
  • Types of Mirrors
• Communication
  • Intent While Driving
  • Presence While Driving
• Distractions and Safety While Driving
• Speed Management
• Space Management
• Night Operation
• Extreme Driving Conditions
  • Vehicle Preparation
  • Driver Preparation
• Hazard Perception
• Skid Control / Recovery, Jackknifing, and other emergencies
• Railroad-Highway Grade Crossings
• Identification and Diagnosis of Malfunctions
• Roadside Inspections
• Vehicle Maintenance
• Handling and Documenting Cargo
• Post-Crash Procedures
• Trip Planning
• And much more…

Client Responsibilities 

• No Alcohol or drug use abuse permitted.
• Must pass a vision exam, DOT Physical, and Drug & Alcohol screening to receive and maintain your CDL Class A or B license.
• For the next 4-6 weeks, you must attend and participate in classroom (Theory) and on the road (BTW) training. If you miss more than 3 days of training, we reserve the right to terminate your training agreement and NO refund will be issued.

Accreditations

House of Faith Transportation, LLC is accredited by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).