Position Summary
 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.
Essential 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.
Qualifications
- 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
- Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
- Coaching and mentoring
- Communication
- Patience
- Organization
- Problem-solving
- Basic computer skills
- Must be 21 years of age or older
Physical Requirements
- Enter/exit commercial vehicles repeatedly
- Sit, stand, bend, climb, and walk for extended periods
- Lift up to 50 pounds
- Work outdoors in varying weather
- Work Environment
- Classroom, training yard, and public roads
- Exposure to weather and vehicle noise
- Flexible schedule including evenings/weekends as needed
Success in This Role
A successful CDL Driving School Instructor is passionate about helping students build confidence behind the wheel while maintaining the highest standards of safety, professionalism, and regulatory compliance.
Learn more about this Employer on their Career Site
