CLDT (Class A) - Lakewood University

Become a Certified Early Learning Truck Driver in as Little as 3 Months

Flexible. Online. Career-focused. Veteran-friendly. Start your journey in ELDT (Class A) with Lakewood University today.

Ready for a Truck Driving Career Without Years of School?

Many adults are looking for something more stable—a career that offers steady demand, competitive pay, and long-term opportunity. The trucking industry continues to be essential to the economy, with Class A CDL drivers playing a critical role in keeping goods moving across the country every day. If you’re seeking a practical path into a high-demand field, this could be your next step.

Traditional college programs can take years to complete and often require a significant financial investment before you begin earning. Not everyone has the time or desire to pursue a multi-year degree just to start a career. You deserve a pathway that allows you to enter the workforce faster while building valuable, in-demand skills.

Lakewood University’s ELDT (Class A) program is designed for individuals who are ready to start a new career with flexibility and purpose. This training prepares you with the foundational knowledge required to pursue your Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) and begin working in the trucking industry. With a focused, career-driven approach, the program is built to help you take the next step toward a stable and rewarding future.

Lakewood University’s ELDT (Class A) Certificate prepares students for certification and employment in a flexible, online format designed for working adults.

Why Choose Lakewood?

Everything you need to succeed in your new career path.

Career-Ready Training

Practical skills you can use immediately in the field.

CDL Certification Prep

Comprehensive prep for the CDL (Commercial Driver’s License) exam.

Flexible Online Format

Learn anytime, anywhere that fits your schedule.

Designed for Adults

Support systems built for students balancing life and work.

Veteran Benefits

We proudly accept GI Bill® and other veteran education benefits.

Payment Plans

Affordable options to make your education stress-free.

ELDT (Class A) Career Outlook

The transportation industry is expanding rapidly, and Class A truck drivers are essential to keeping goods moving safely and efficiently. With increasing freight demands and a growing economy, the need for skilled drivers has never been greater.

Whether you prefer a retail company, a public or private sector setting, or FedEx, UPS, or Amazon, your skills will be in high demand across the nation.

Job Growth

4%

2024–2034

Yearly Openings

~237,600

Annual avg

Median Salary

$57,440

BLS 2024

Settings

Diverse

Retail & private companies

Program Snapshot

Quick facts you need to know about the program.

Duration

3 Months

Format

Online

Tuition

$5,000

Next Start

Monday

Eligibility

High School Diploma or Equivalent

Approval

FMCSA Approved

Work Hours

40 Course Hours

Aid

Financial Options

Get the ELDT (Class A) Program Guide

Enter your details below and we’ll send everything you need to know about the program.

Gold Standard in CLDT (Class A) Education

Our program meets all FMCSA and state-approved training standards, the industry benchmark for entry-level truck driver training. Completing our program ensures you gain the skills and credentials that make you more competitive in the trucking job market.

FMCSA Approved Program

Don’t settle for unaccredited programs. Your career depends on receiving an education that employers recognize and respect.

RECOGNIZED NATIONALLY

Lakewood University was recently featured on CBS for its work in providing accessible, career-driven education to working adults and veterans. National recognition reinforces our commitment to delivering accredited programs designed to prepare students for real-world success.

What You’ll Learn

Our curriculum is built around real-world driving skills. Each module is designed to move you closer to obtaining your Class A Commercial Driver’s License and achieving professional mastery behind the wheel.

Lakewood University’s ELDT (Class A) program prepares students to safely operate commercial motor vehicles, perform essential vehicle inspections, and understand federal regulations required for entry-level drivers.

The program emphasizes proper communication and safety awareness, including effective interaction with dispatchers, law enforcement, and the public, as well as understanding industry expectations.

Course instruction focuses on the accuracy and responsibility required to complete logs, inspections, and documentation in compliance with Department of Transportation (DOT) standards.

Students in this program will gain the knowledge and hands-on training needed to qualify for entry-level commercial driving positions and be fully prepared to pass the CDL Class A licensing exams

Program Objectives

Understand the interaction between driver-trainees and the CMV
Review the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSRs)
Exam the basic CMV instruments and controls, basic operating characteristics of a CMV, vehicle inspections
How to control the motion of CMV’s under various road and traffic conditions, employ shifting and backing techniques, and coupling-uncoupling CMVs
Learn the practices required for the safe operation of the combination vehicle on the highway under various road, weather, and traffic conditions
Gain the advanced skills necessary to recognize potential hazards and handle a CMV when faced with a hazard
Review the vehicle and its systems and subsystems, vehicle inspection, operation, and maintenance, and the impact of those factors upon highway safety and operational efficiency
Study activities such as cargo handling, environmental issues, driver hours of service, post-crash procedures, drugs and alcohol, and trip planning.

I. Basic Operation

A. Orientation

B. Control Systems/Dashboard

C. Pre-and Post Trip Inspections

D. Basic Control

E. Shifting/Operating Transmissions

F. Backing and Docking

G. Coupling and Uncoupling

II. Safe Operating Procedures

A. Visual Search

B. Communication

C. Distracted Driving

D. Speed Management

E. Space Management

F. Night Operation

G. Extreme Driving Conditions

III. Advanced Operating Practices

A. Hazard Perception

B. Skid Control/Recovery, Jackknifing, and Other Emergencies

C. Railroad-Highway Grade Crossings

IV. Vehicle Systems and Reporting Malfunctions

A. Identification and Diagnosis of Malfunctions

B. Roadside Inspections

C. Maintenance

V. Non-Driving Activities

A. Handling and Documenting Cargo

B. Environmental Compliance Issues

C. Hours of Service Requirements

D. Fatigue and Wellness Awareness

E. Post-Crash Procedures

F. External Communications

G. Whistleblower/Coercion

H. Trip Planning

I. Drugs/Alcohol

J. Medical Requirements

You’re Not Doing This Alone

We provide the structure and support you need to cross the finish line.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this program accredited?

Although not accredited, the CLDT (Class A) program is approved by the FMCSA. Approval means the program meets nationally recognized standards for quality, curriculum, and student preparation. Choosing an approved program helps protect your time and investment.

Does this prepare me for certification?

Yes. The CLDT (Class A) Certificate is designed to prepare graduates to sit for national certification examinations, including the Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) examination. The curriculum aligns with industry standards and includes focused preparation to help students feel confident and ready for certification.

Can I use VA benefits?

Eligible students may use approved VA education benefits for this program. Lakewood University is committed to supporting veterans and military families through the enrollment process. Our admissions team can help you determine your eligibility and guide you step by step.

Are payment plans available?

Yes. We offer flexible payment options to make the program more accessible. In addition to approved financing partners, students may choose structured payment plans based on eligibility. Our admissions team can review available options and help you select the best fit for your situation.

How long does it take?

The program can be completed in as little as three months, depending on your pace and schedule. Because the format is online and flexible, many students are able to complete their training while continuing to work or manage other responsibilities.

Will I be able to complete it while working?

The program is delivered in a flexible online format designed to accommodate working adults. While you can complete coursework around your weekly schedule, there are structured weekly deadlines to help you stay on track. All coursework must be completed by your assigned program end date, ensuring steady progress toward graduation and certification readiness.

What happens after graduation?

After completing the program, all students will be able to take their CDL gaining real-world experience in a professional trucking environment.

After certification, you may pursue employment opportunities in retail companies, UPS, Amazon or other trucking companies

Our support does not end at graduation. Students receive lifetime access to career services, including resume guidance, job search support, and professional resources to help you continue growing in your career.

Start Your Career in Truck Driving Today

Join thousands of successful graduates who have transformed their lives with Lakewood University. Your new career is just 3 months away!

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GI Bill® is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. VA education benefits eligibility varies by individual and program. Lakewood University does not guarantee benefit approval.

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