About the Role
The CDL Driving School Instructor is responsible for educating and training students to safely and confidently obtain their Commercial Driver's License (CDL). This position combines classroom instruction with behind-the-wheel training, ensuring students develop the knowledge, skills, and confidence necessary to become safe, professional commercial drivers. The ideal candidate is patient, safety-focused, and passionate about helping others succeed.
Responsibilities
- Provide classroom instruction covering CDL curriculum, DOT regulations, vehicle systems, safety procedures, and defensive driving techniques.
- Conduct behind-the-wheel training in accordance with FMCSA and state CDL testing standards.
- Teach students vehicle inspections, backing maneuvers, shifting techniques, parallel parking, coupling/uncoupling, and road driving skills.
- Evaluate student performance and provide constructive coaching and feedback.
- Maintain accurate student attendance, training records, evaluations, and required documentation.
- Ensure all training vehicles are clean, safe, and properly maintained before instruction.
- Demonstrate and reinforce safe driving habits and regulatory compliance at all times.
- Stay current on FMCSA regulations, state licensing requirements, and industry best practices.
- Foster a positive, respectful, and encouraging learning environment.
- Communicate student progress with management and recommend additional training when needed.
- Participate in instructor meetings, continuing education, and curriculum improvements as requested.
- Represent the driving school professionally within the community and during recruitment events when needed.
Requirements
- Valid Class A CDL (no restrictions)
- Clean driving record
- Minimum 10 years verifiable commercial driving experience
- Ability to pass DOT drug and alcohol testing
- Excellent communication skills
- High school diploma or equivalent required
- Previous instructor experience preferred
- Knowledge of FMCSA regulations required
- Must be 21 years of age or older
- Enter/exit commercial vehicles repeatedly
- Sit, stand, bend, climb, and walk for extended periods
- Lift up to 50 pounds
- Work outdoors in varying weather
Skills
- Coaching and mentoring
- Communication
- Patience
- Organization
- Problem-solving
- Basic computer skills
Location
- Classroom
- Training yard
- Public roads
Work Type
- Flexible schedule including evenings/weekends
Experience Level
- Minimum 10 years verifiable commercial driving experience
- Previous instructor experience preferred
Education Level
- High school diploma or equivalent required
