Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
CDL School Information

1. Will my instructor's license allow me to instruct at any truck training school within Georgia?
   

   No, Commercial Vehicle (Truck) Training School Instructors can only instruct at the school that they are approved to teach at. If the person changes schools they must complete a transfer application.

2. When does an Instructor’s license expire?
   

   The instructor license is issued for a period of four (4) years unless otherwise canceled, suspended or revoked by DDS.

3. How long does it take for an application to be processed?
   

   Every effort is made to process applications as soon as possible. No application can be processed until after a background investigation has been completed for each applicant. Please allow at least 30 to 45 days and in some instances it could take longer.

4. Can I obtain a license for a commercial driver training school without providing a range for training?
   

   No, you must provide for practical truck and/or bus driver training, a range of 250 ft. X 250 feet or a minimum of 62,500 square feet to accommodate a maximum of three (3) vehicles.

5. Do I have to provide classroom, range and road training in order to obtain a license?
   

   Yes, you must provide all three

6. What classroom setup is required?
   

   Classrooms must include individual desks or tables with chairs to accommodate students comfortably. The minimum class size is 300 square feet.

7. What is the minimum number of hours of instruction?
   

   In order to obtain a commercial driver training school license, you must provide a combination of classroom, range and road training with a minimum 160 hours of curriculum.

8. Is observation time considered road training?
   

   No, road training is considered actual behind the wheel training with the student in the driver seat.

9. Can I offer a refresher course?
   

   Yes, you can offer a refresher course with a minimum of 70 hours of curriculum instruction that includes classroom, range and road. The curriculum must be submitted and approved by the Department.

10. Can I offer only a 70-hour course and obtain my commercial driver training school license?
    

    No, you must provide a minimum of 160 hours of curriculum to obtain a commercial driver training school license. A 70-hour refresher course would be an additional approved course and not a substitute for the 160-hour course.

11. Do I have to provide training in the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Rules and Regulations?
    

    Yes, all commercial driver training schools must provide instruction in the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Rules and Regulations.

12. Once I obtain my license, can I also obtain a license for Third Party Testing?
    

    An adequate number of state testing centers are located in Georgia.

13. What are the qualifications for an Instructor at a Commercial Vehicle (Truck) Training School?
    
    1. All instructors must be at least 21 years of age
    2. Be of good moral character
    3. Must have a valid driver's license to operate a motor vehicle before applying for a driver training instructor's certificate and a Commercial Drivers’ license the same as the class being taught.
    4. Applicant must successfully pass a background investigation and driver history check prior to approval.
    5. Successfully pass a written examination administered by DDS.
    6. Applicant must be employed by a licensed Commercial Vehicle (Truck) Training School.

    CDL instructor application

14. What are the qualifications to operate a Commercial Vehicle (Truck) Training School?
    
    1. All applications must be made in writing to DDS.
    2. Copies of all documents used in the school must be submitted for approval.
    3. Copy of all curriculum used including videos and any student handouts.
    4. Provide proof of valid liability insurance.  

    CDL instructor application

15. My instructor's license has been expired for over three (3) years; do I need to submit a new application?
    

    Yes, you must re-qualify if the instructor license has been expired for more than 3 years.

16. How do I file a complaint against a Commercial Vehicle (Truck) Training School or Instructor?
    

    All complaints must be submitted in writing to the:
                       Regulatory Compliance Section
                       P. O. Box 80447
                      Conyers, Georgia 30013 
    Provide a copy of your student contract, the nature of the complaint and whether you have discussed the complaint with the school.

17. Is there material available to study for the instructor's exam?
    

    Yes, The Georgia Commercial and Regular Drivers Manual and the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations
    
    Detailed information and applications for school license and instructor license is included with the application package and can be accessed on this website in the forms section under the Regulatory Compliance Section.