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Home Training Programs CDL CDL-A

Class-A CDL Training Program Near Connecticut, Massachusetts & Rhode Island

If you’ve been thinking about learning how to drive the big rigs, you’ve come to the right place. When people think about truckers or becoming tractor-trailer truck drivers, they are often referring to a Class-A Commercial Driver’s License (CDL). A Class-A CDL is the right choice for someone who is looking to drive a tractor-trailer, often referred to as a big rig, semi-truck, or 18-wheeler.

At New England Tractor Trailer Training School (NETTTS), our CDL training programs begin by teaching the basics of truck driving, so you don’t need to have any prior experience with large vehicles to begin. Our training programs in Bridgeport, CT, Somers, CT, Pawtucket, RI, and North Andover, MA covers:

  • CDL Learner’s Permit prep
  • Prioritizing safety
  • Training on federal and state regulations
  • Inspection procedures
  • Shifting practice on CDL truck driving simulator
  • Hands-on and behind-the-wheel training
  • Road training and CDL road test sponsorship

What Is Class-A CDL Training Like?

Driving a Class-A commercial motor vehicle is different from driving a passenger car or truck. Our Class-A CDL tractor-trailer training is designed to teach students those differences and allow them to put their knowledge into practice.

Training begins with preparation for your CDL permit in the classroom. Students will also be taught concepts like:

  • Shifting and driving practice on a truck driving simulator
  • Inspection procedures
  • Truck components, like air brakes and different types of transmissions
  • Rules and regulations of the road
  • Driving techniques

Once you have finished your safety and knowledge training, it’s time to put your new skills to work out in the training field. We have a fleet of over 150 trucks and tractor-trailers for our students to train on. In the field, students will learn:

  • Pre-trip inspection procedures
  • Coupling and uncoupling
  • Air brake test
  • Shifting drills

Students will also learn backing maneuvers, like:

  • Straight back
  • Blind side parallel park
  • Sight side parallel park
  • Alley dock
  • Offset backing

Students will also receive roadside training with our experienced CDL driving instructors. Each instructor has several years of professional driving experience and can use that knowledge to help train our students.

Choose NETTTS As Your Class-A CDL Training Program

Are you looking for a truck driving school to help you shift gears? NETTTS could be the change you’re looking for. Our program includes:

  • Financial aid is available to those who qualify
  • Career Services support
  • Experienced instructors with professional driving knowledge
  • A company-wide fleet of over 150 trucks and trailers for student training
  • Practice on CDL driving simulator
  • National Safety Council Defensive Driving Certification
  • FMCSA Approved ELDT training provider

If you’re ready to take the next step and find out more about the Class A-CDL program at NETTTS, we have four locations around the northeast where students can train, including:

If you have more questions, contact us today to learn more or request more information.

CDL-A Frequently Asked Questions

Do you have more questions about New England Tractor Trailer Training School and the programs we offer? Find out answers to some of the most frequently asked questions.

How do I become a truck driver?

If you’re interested in becoming a truck driver, find a CDL program that’s right for you. Learn more about how to become a truck driver.

What is the difference between over-the-road trucking and local trucking?

Local trucking means your routes will have you home every night. Over-the-road trucking means routes that can take you across the country and last multiple days. Learn more about over-the-road trucking and local trucking.

Can I apply for financial aid?

Financial aid is available for those who qualify. Learn more about how to apply for FAFSA for CDL training.

What is the difference between a Class A and Class B CDL?

Class A and Class B CDLs allow drivers to operate different types of vehicles. According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), a class A CDL is required for the operation of a combination of vehicles (such as a tractor connected to a trailer) with a gross vehicle weight of 26,001 pounds or more and a towing capacity of more than 10,000 pounds. A class B CDL is required for the operation of a single vehicle with a gross vehicle weight of 26,001 pounds or more and a towing capacity of no more than 10,000 pounds. Learn more about Class A vs. Class B CDL.