If you’re searching for CDL training, commercial driver’s license training, or a trusted CDL driving school, Smith & Solomon provides the education, hands-on experience, and career support needed to help you succeed in today’s transportation industry. For more than 40 years, we’ve helped thousands of students prepare for rewarding careers by combining classroom instruction with real-world driving experience.
Our comprehensive CDL Training Programs are designed to prepare students for both the written permit exam and the practical skills required to safely operate commercial vehicles. Whether you’re interested in earning a Class A CDL, a Class B CDL, or expanding your qualifications through endorsement training, our experienced instructors provide guidance every step of the way. If you’re still deciding whether trucking is the right career path, read our guide on Is CDL Training Worth It? to explore job outlook, earning potential, and long-term career opportunities.
Unlike many truck driving schools that focus solely on helping students pass an exam, Smith & Solomon prepares students for long-term success. From your first day in the classroom to your first day on the job, our goal is to build safe, confident, and knowledgeable commercial drivers. Through practical instruction, flexible training options, and Job Placement Assistance, we help students transition from training to employment with confidence.
Why Choose Smith & Solomon for CDL Training?
Selecting the right CDL school is one of the most important decisions you’ll make as you begin your commercial driving career. The quality of your training can directly impact your confidence, safety, and future employment opportunities.
For over four decades, Smith & Solomon has earned a reputation for delivering high-quality commercial driver’s license training across New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Delaware. Students choose us because we focus on practical education, experienced instruction, and long-term career success.
When you train with Smith & Solomon, you’ll benefit from:
- More than 40 years of CDL training experience
- Over 75,000 graduates who have entered the transportation industry
- Experienced instructors with professional commercial driving backgrounds
- Hands-on training using industry-standard equipment
- Flexible class scheduling based on program availability
- Career guidance and Job Placement Assistance
- Convenient training locations throughout New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Delaware
- A curriculum focused on real-world driving situations and workplace readiness
Our goal isn’t simply to help you earn a CDL. We prepare you for a long-term career in commercial transportation with the skills employers expect from entry-level drivers.
What Is CDL Training?
Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) training is a structured educational program that teaches students how to safely operate commercial vehicles while preparing them for the knowledge and skills required to earn a CDL. Professional training combines classroom instruction with hands-on experience, allowing students to develop the confidence needed to operate large commercial vehicles safely and efficiently.
A comprehensive CDL training program includes much more than learning how to drive a truck. Students gain an understanding of vehicle systems, safety regulations, defensive driving, inspections, and commercial vehicle operations that prepare them for real-world scenarios.
During your training, you’ll learn about:
- Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) preparation
- Vehicle inspections
- Air brake systems
- Backing and maneuvering techniques
- Coupling and uncoupling procedures
- Defensive driving
- Hours of Service regulations
- DOT safety requirements
- Trip planning
- Logbook training
- Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) requirements
If you’re wondering what the training process looks like from start to finish, our blog How Long Does CDL Training Take? walks through the typical timeline and what students can expect during each phase of training.
Class A vs. Class B CDL Training
Choosing between Class A CDL training and Class B CDL training is one of the first decisions you’ll make when beginning your commercial driving career. Both licenses create excellent employment opportunities, but they prepare drivers for different types of vehicles and career paths.
Class A CDL Training
Class A CDL training prepares students to operate combination vehicles with a Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR) of 26,001 pounds or more when the towed vehicle exceeds 10,000 pounds. This license offers the greatest flexibility and qualifies drivers for many of the highest-demand positions in the trucking industry.
Common career opportunities include:
- Tractor-trailer driver
- Regional freight driver
- Long-haul trucking
- Flatbed driver
- Tanker driver
- Refrigerated freight
- Intermodal transportation
Smith & Solomon’s Class A CDL Training Program consists of 160 hours of classroom instruction, yard practice, and supervised road training. Throughout the program, students develop the knowledge, safety awareness, and practical skills needed to begin a professional driving career.
If you’re considering careers that involve regional or cross-country freight, our article Local vs. OTR Truck Driving: Which Is Better? compares both career paths to help you determine which option best fits your lifestyle and goals.
Class B CDL Training
Class B CDL training prepares students to operate single commercial vehicles with a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of 26,001 pounds or more that do not tow heavy trailers.
Many students choose a Class B CDL because it provides opportunities for stable local careers operating:
- Straight trucks
- Box trucks
- Delivery vehicles
- Dump trucks
- Buses
- Municipal vehicles
- Utility trucks
For individuals who prefer staying closer to home while still building a rewarding commercial driving career, Class B training offers an excellent option. If you’re still comparing schools before enrolling, our guide on How to Choose the Right CDL School outlines the most important factors to consider when evaluating training programs.
What You’ll Learn During CDL Training
Professional CDL training combines classroom education with practical driving experience to help students become safe, confident commercial drivers. Every phase of training is designed to build the knowledge and hands-on skills required for success in today’s transportation industry.
Whether you’re pursuing a Class A or Class B CDL, you’ll receive instruction that prepares you for both the licensing process and the demands of professional commercial driving.
Classroom Instruction
Every successful commercial driver begins with a strong understanding of safety, regulations, and vehicle operation. Classroom instruction provides the foundation for everything students will experience during yard and road training.
Students receive instruction in:
- Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) preparation
- DOT rules and regulations
- Air brake systems
- Vehicle safety
- Defensive driving techniques
- Hours of Service requirements
- Map reading and trip planning
- Logbook training
- Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT)
- Hazard awareness and accident prevention
Many prospective students also ask whether they’re eligible to earn a CDL before enrolling. Our guide What Disqualifies You From Getting a CDL? explains common disqualifying factors and how to prepare for the licensing process.
Hands-On Yard Training
After completing classroom instruction, students move into the training yard where they begin applying their knowledge in a controlled environment. Working alongside experienced instructors, students develop the practical skills needed to safely maneuver commercial vehicles before driving on public roads.
Yard training includes:
- Pre-trip inspections
- Straight-line backing
- Offset backing
- Alley dock backing
- Coupling and uncoupling
- Safe vehicle maneuvering
- Trailer positioning
- Commercial vehicle inspections
Learning these skills in a controlled setting helps build confidence and prepares students for real-world driving scenarios.
Behind-the-Wheel Road Training
Once students have developed confidence in the classroom and training yard, they advance to one of the most valuable parts of the program: behind-the-wheel road training.
Driving a commercial vehicle safely requires more than understanding the rules of the road. It requires real-world experience navigating traffic, managing large vehicles, anticipating hazards, and making safe decisions in constantly changing conditions. Under the supervision of experienced instructors, students gain practical driving experience that prepares them for life as a professional commercial driver.
During road training, students practice:
- City driving
- Highway driving
- Lane positioning
- Turning and intersection management
- Railroad crossings
- Speed and space management
- Defensive driving techniques
- Hazard recognition
- Mirror usage
- Safe braking procedures
- Vehicle control in various traffic conditions
By the time students complete their road training, they have developed the confidence and practical experience needed to pursue entry-level commercial driving opportunities.
Additional Training and CDL Endorsement Preparation
At Smith & Solomon, we believe professional CDL training should prepare students for more than earning a commercial driver’s license. Our curriculum introduces students to additional knowledge and endorsements that can expand future career opportunities and increase earning potential.
Throughout your training, you’ll receive instruction covering topics such as:
- Doubles and Triples Endorsement
- Tanker Endorsement
- Hazardous Materials (HazMat) Endorsement
- Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT)
- DOT Rules and Regulations
- Map Reading and Trip Planning
- Logbook Training
- Commercial Driver Safety Best Practices
While additional endorsements may require separate testing or background checks depending on federal and state requirements, understanding these specialized qualifications helps students prepare for future career advancement.
For more information about federal CDL requirements and endorsements, visit the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) at https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/.
Why Hands-On CDL Training Matters
Commercial driving is a skill developed through experience. Reading a manual or watching videos can provide foundational knowledge, but safely operating a commercial vehicle requires practical instruction and repetition.
At Smith & Solomon, students spend time applying classroom concepts through supervised training that mirrors real working conditions. This approach helps students become more comfortable operating commercial vehicles while reinforcing safe driving habits before entering the workforce.
Hands-on instruction also helps students:
- Build confidence behind the wheel
- Develop muscle memory for vehicle control
- Learn safe backing and maneuvering techniques
- Improve situational awareness
- Practice defensive driving habits
- Understand vehicle inspections and safety procedures
- Gain experience operating commercial vehicles in different environments
These are the skills employers expect from entry-level drivers, which is why practical instruction remains one of the most valuable parts of professional CDL training.
Career Opportunities After CDL Training
A Commercial Driver’s License opens the door to a wide range of career opportunities across multiple industries. While many people immediately think of tractor-trailers traveling across the country, commercial drivers are employed in nearly every sector of the economy.
Depending on the license class, endorsements, and employer, graduates may pursue careers operating:
- Tractor-trailers
- Straight trucks
- Box trucks
- Dump trucks
- Tanker trucks
- Delivery vehicles
- Passenger buses
- Utility vehicles
- Municipal vehicles
- Construction equipment support vehicles
Many graduates choose careers involving:
- Local delivery routes
- Regional freight transportation
- Over-the-road (OTR) trucking
- Construction hauling
- Food and beverage distribution
- Retail logistics
- Intermodal freight
- Public transportation
If you’re still deciding which type of trucking career best matches your goals, our guide to Local vs. OTR Truck Driving: Which Is Better? compares the benefits, schedules, and earning potential of each career path.
If you’re wondering whether pursuing a CDL is a worthwhile investment, we also encourage you to read Is CDL Training Worth It? to learn more about today’s job market, salary potential, and long-term career outlook.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, demand for qualified heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers continues to remain strong as freight transportation and logistics play an essential role in the U.S. economy. Learn more at the Bureau Of Labor Statistics Transport Page.
Convenient CDL Training Locations
Smith & Solomon proudly serves students throughout the Northeast with convenient training locations that make professional CDL education more accessible.
Students can attend CDL training at campuses throughout:
New Jersey
Our New Jersey locations serve students throughout the state who are looking for professional CDL classes, commercial driver’s license training, and career-focused instruction.
Learn more about CDL Training in New Jersey or visit one of our campuses in:
- Bordentown
- Linden
- Deptford
Pennsylvania
Students throughout Pennsylvania have access to experienced instructors, hands-on commercial driver training, and flexible scheduling at multiple locations.
Explore our Pennsylvania CDL Training page to learn more about programs available in:
- Philadelphia
- Norristown
- Dupont
Delaware
Students living in Delaware can receive professional CDL training close to home through our New Castle location.
Visit our Delaware CDL Training page to learn more about training opportunities and program availability.
To find the campus that’s most convenient for you, visit our complete Locations page.
Flexible Payment Plans
Investing in professional CDL training is an investment in your future. Smith & Solomon offers flexible payment plans to help make commercial driver training more accessible for students pursuing a new career.
Our admissions team can discuss available payment options and help you determine the training program that best aligns with your career goals. If you’re considering enrolling, we encourage you to speak with an admissions representative to learn more about available scheduling and payment options.
Take the First Step Toward Your CDL Career
Whether you’re starting your first career, changing professions, or looking to expand your driving qualifications, Smith & Solomon provides the education, practical experience, and support needed to help you succeed.
Our comprehensive CDL training programs are designed to prepare students for real-world commercial driving through classroom instruction, hands-on yard practice, and supervised road training. Combined with experienced instructors, flexible scheduling, and dedicated career support, our programs are built to help you confidently enter the transportation industry.
If you’re ready to begin your journey, explore our CDL Training Programs, learn more about our Job Placement Assistance, or contact your nearest Smith & Solomon location to speak with an admissions advisor about the next available class.
Additional Information
What sets our programs apart is the additional resources provided during your Commercial Driver Training. You will be educated on the following:
- Doubles & Triples Endorsement
- Tanker Endorsement
- Hazardous Material Endorsement
- Entry Level Certification
- Map reading and trip planning
- Log Book training
- DOT Rules and Regulations
- Be at least 18 years old (21 to drive from state-to-state)
- Possess a valid driver’s license in your state of residence
- Pass a DOT drug test and physical
When you enroll in Smith and Solomon’s CDL programs, you get comprehensive CDL training that combines classroom learning with real-world driving experience. These commercial driver’s license training components are designed to give you everything you need to succeed:
- Our CDL schools are staffed by experienced instructors and feature relaxed, comfortable classrooms conducive to learning
- Small class sizes allow you to get the individual attention you need
- Extensive safety and driving skills curriculum
- Our CDL training schools have more than 140 pieces of equipment for hands-on, behind-the-wheel training
- We offer continued training until you’re ready to test. No extra fees or hidden charges. Just a one-time fee to get your license
- Unlimited, comprehensive job placement services – Our truck driver training is designed to prepare you for employment upon graduation. As a respected truck training school, we’ve developed strong relationships with many corporations. They trust our quality graduates
- Training on the same vehicles that you test on and will be driving after graduation
- Latest training materials
- Continued training until the individual passes the CDL road test
- Continual placement services administered by placement professionals who work with Human Resource professionals at major corporations
- Constantly updated database of job listings/opportunities
We offer full-time and weekend drivers training courses, so you’ll have the flexibility you need to work training into your schedule. Hours vary by location so please call an Admissions Coordinator at 800-622-0355 to discuss scheduling options. If you’re wondering how to get a CDL, contact us today to learn more about Smith and Solomon CDL opportunities and training options.. Our truck driver training schools are designed to get you on the road and into a new career.
| Programs | Days | Hours |
| Weekday | Monday – Thursday | 7:30 am – 5:30 pm |
| Weekend | Saturday & Sunday | 7:00 am – 4:30 pm |
Smith & Solomon is committed to making quality CDL training accessible and affordable. Our 100% Tuition Reimbursement Program allows eligible students to receive full reimbursement of their tuition costs upon securing employment with participating trucking companies. This initiative not only alleviates the financial burden of training but also paves the way for a debt-free start to your trucking career.
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Refresher Courses
Have your CDL but have not driven in the last 6 months, get a refresher course so you can jump right into a trucking job.
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FAQ
Class A CDL training prepares drivers to operate combination vehicles, including tractor-trailers, while Class B CDL training focuses on single commercial vehicles such as buses, dump trucks, and box trucks. The right program depends on the type of commercial driving career you want to pursue.
Program length varies depending on the license type and schedule. Smith & Solomon’s Class A CDL Training Program consists of 160 hours of instruction that combines classroom education, yard training, and behind-the-wheel driving. For a more detailed overview, read How Long Does CDL Training Take?.
Many employers actively hire graduates from reputable CDL schools. Smith & Solomon also provides Job Placement Assistance to help connect qualified graduates with commercial driving opportunities.
When comparing CDL schools, consider factors such as instructor experience, hands-on training, scheduling flexibility, career support, and school reputation. Our guide on How to Choose the Right CDL School can help you evaluate your options.
Certain medical conditions, driving violations, criminal offenses, and federal disqualifications may affect CDL eligibility. Before enrolling, review our article What Disqualifies You From Getting a CDL? to better understand the requirements.