Mar 14, 2025  
NIACC Catalog 2025-2026 
    
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NIACC Catalog 2025-2026

CDL Pro Driver (NIACC Workforce Academy)

Almost every part of our lives depends on the work of a truck driver. Fuel. Clothing. Food. And so much more! 

Whether you want to be a school bus driver, drive for a local co-op or landscaping company or be an over-the-road truck driver, you need a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL). Be one of more than 200,000 new heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers projected to be in demand each year between now and the year 2030. (source: bls.gov) 

Enroll today for a flexible yet comprehensive education ranging from vehicle inspection, basic control of the vehicle and backing, to defensive driving and hazard awareness woven into classroom theory, behind the wheel practice range and road time. NIACC partners with Northland CDL to provide you with a variety of entry level driver training classes and testing, as outlined by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. 

Duration: 3 weeks

Format: On-campus instruction (check upcoming offerings for specific locations). 

Certifications: Completion of the program prepares participants for a CDL, including testing for Class A Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) and other necessary certifications. 

Career and Industry Outlook 

Career Opportunities: 

  • Truck Driver (long-haul, regional, local deliveries) 
  • Bus Driver (public transportation, school, or charter services) 
  • Delivery Driver (package delivery services) 
  • Tanker Truck Driver, Hazmat Driver, Dump Truck Driver, Tow Truck Operator, among others. 

Job Demand: The demand for truck drivers is expected to grow rapidly, with more than 200,000 new heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers needed each year through 2030. Opportunities also exist in specialized fields such as hazmat, tanker, and livestock transport. 

Salary Expectations: Drivers possessing a commercial driver’s license are in high demand in the workforce, with potential to earn more with experience, specialization, or in long-haul trucking. 

Industry Trends: The demand for CDL drivers is being driven by growing consumer needs for freight transportation, a shift toward more environmentally-conscious driving practices, and innovations in the trucking industry, including autonomous trucks. 

Program Details 

Program Specific Details: 

  • Students will learn about vehicle inspection and basic control of the vehicle. 
  • Backing, defensive driving, and hazard awareness will be emphasized. 
  • Students will receive behind-the-wheel practice and road time. 

Advancement Opportunities: CDL graduates can pursue advanced endorsements (e.g., Hazmat, Tanker, Double/Triple Trailers) or move into supervisory roles or owner-operator positions. 

Cost and Financial Assistance 

Tuition and Fees: Check the program’s page for up-to-date pricing based on the course offerings and location. 

Financial Aid Options: Financial aid may be available through workforce development programs or grants. Specific financial assistance details can be provided upon request. 

Work-Study or Assistance: N/A for this program, but some students may be eligible for state-based workforce development funding or job placement assistance. 

Enrollment Process 

How to Apply: There are no entrance exams or specific admission requirements for this program. Students can start the enrollment process by completing the Education to Employment Interest Form available on the program’s webpage.  

Eligibility Requirements: 

  • All students must be able to read, speak, write, and comprehend English. No interpreters are allowed per CDL regulations. 
  • Obtain your Class A Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP). Go to https://iowadot.gov/mvd/cdl/Commercial-learners-permit for more information. 
  • Provide copies of your Driver’s license and paper permit when requested. 
  • You must hold a valid CLP for at least 14 days before you can complete the required skills test. 
  • Purchase your Certified Iowa Driving Record from the Iowa DOT and provide a copy when requested. 
  • Must be certified 5-year MVR. 
  • You can go to your local DOT station or https://iowadot.gov/mvd/driverslicense/records 
  • Pass and pay for a Department of Transportation (DOT) physical conducted by a licensed “medical examiner” listed on the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) National Registry. If receiving possible free tuition through NIACC, be sure to check with them before paying. Provide copy of medical certification when requested. 
  • Pass and pay for a lab based Department of Transportation (DOT) pre-employment drug and alcohol screening – Do not go until instructed. If receiving possible free tuition through NIACC, be sure to check with them before paying. 
  • Register with the Clearinghouse when instructed. 

Deadlines: Check the program’s page for upcoming session start dates. 

Next Steps After Application: Once the interest form is submitted, students will be contacted by staff from the Education to Employment team to discuss program enrollment and tuition assistance options. 

Program Requirements & Equipment 

Personal Protective Equipment: Participants will need to provide and wear close-toed shoes.