A GED is not legally required to enroll in and attend a trucking school in order to obtain a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL).
However, many trucking schools and companies may prefer or even require applicants to have a high school diploma or GED credential. This is because a diploma or GED demonstrates basic skills in areas like reading, writing, and math that are important for successfully completing CDL training and working as a commercial driver.
Additionally, if you need to use federal financial aid or grants to pay for their CDL training, you will need to have a high school diploma or GED.
But it is still possible to obtain a CDL without these credentials, you would just have to pay for the training out-of-pocket.
Read more: How Do You Get a GED?
Requirements for Trucking School
Valid Driver’s License
Applicants must hold a valid, non-commercial driver’s license in order to enroll in a trucking program. This demonstrates that the person already has basic driving skills and experience.
Medical Certification
Prospective trucking students must obtain a valid medical examiner’s certificate. This involves passing a comprehensive medical exam to ensure that one meets the physical and mental health requirements for operating a commercial vehicle. This includes vision, hearing, and other health assessments.
Entry Level Driver Training (ELDT)
As of February 2022, all new CDL applicants must complete an ELDT program before taking the written and skills tests for their CDL. This federally-mandated training covers topics like vehicle inspection, basic vehicle control, and safe operating procedures.
Background Check
Trucking schools and employers will conduct a thorough background check on applicants, looking for any criminal history, driving violations, or other red flags that could disqualify them from obtaining a CDL.
Additional Certifications
Depending on the type of CDL license being pursued (Class A, B, or C) and the type of vehicle the individual wants to operate, there may be additional certifications or endorsements required, such as for hazardous materials, passenger transport, or tank vehicles.
Policies of Trucking Schools Regarding Educational Requirements
Educational Prerequisites
Many trucking schools require applicants to have a high school diploma or GED as a prerequisite for enrollment. This ensures that students have the basic language, writing, and math skills necessary to complete the program successfully.
Alternative Options
Some trucking schools may accept an Ability-to-Benefit (ATB) test as an alternative to a high school diploma or GED. This test demonstrates that the applicant can benefit from the training program, even if they do not have a formal education.
Company-Specific Requirements
Large trucking companies often require a high school diploma or GED for hiring. This is because they want to ensure that their employees have the necessary skills to complete the training and perform their job duties effectively.
Trucking Schools and Their Admission Criteria
HDS Truck Driving Institute
- Educational Requirements: Applicants must have a high school diploma or GED equivalent.
- Age Requirements: Applicants must be at least 18 years old for intrastate CDL, or 21 years old for interstate CDL.
- Other Requirements: Applicants must provide a valid U.S. social security card and proof of at least one year of driving experience in a standard vehicle. They must also pass a DOT physical exam and drug screening test.
Roadmaster Drivers School
- Educational Requirements: Applicants must have a high school diploma, GED, or pass an Ability-to-Benefit test.
- Age Requirements: Applicants must be at least 18 years old for intrastate CDL, or 21 years old for interstate CDL.
- Other Requirements: Applicants must have a valid driver’s license, pass a DOT physical exam, and submit to a background check and drug screening.
Sage Truck Driving School
- Educational Requirements: Applicants must have a high school diploma or GED equivalent.
- Age Requirements: Applicants must be at least 18 years old for intrastate CDL, or 21 years old for interstate CDL.
- Other Requirements: Applicants must have a valid driver’s license, pass a DOT physical exam, and submit to a background check and drug screening. They must also demonstrate proficiency in English.
Roehl Transport Truck Driving School
- Educational Requirements: Applicants must have a high school diploma or GED equivalent.
- Age Requirements: Applicants must be at least 18 years old for intrastate CDL, or 21 years old for interstate CDL.
- Other Requirements: Applicants must have a valid driver’s license, pass a DOT physical exam and drug screening, and have a clean driving record with no major violations.
These criteria help ensure that students have the necessary foundation to successfully complete the training and obtain their commercial driver’s license.
Benefits of Having a GED for Enrolling in Trucking School
Having a GED (General Educational Development) can provide several benefits for enrolling in trucking school and obtaining a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL):
Basic Skills Demonstration
A GED demonstrates that the individual has acquired basic skills in reading, writing, and math, which are essential for successfully completing CDL training and working as a commercial driver.
Preferred by Trucking Schools and Employers
Many trucking schools and companies prefer or even require applicants to have a high school diploma or GED. This is because a diploma or GED indicates that the person has the necessary academic skills to handle the rigors of CDL training and the demands of the job.
Access to Financial Aid
If a person wants to use federal financial aid or grants to pay for their CDL training, they typically need to have a high school diploma or GED. This can make it easier to finance their education and career advancement.
Enhanced Career Opportunities
Having a GED can open up more career opportunities in the trucking industry. Employers may view a GED as a sign of commitment to education and a willingness to learn, which can be beneficial for career advancement and job security.
Check out: How Can an Employer Verify a GED?
Improved Job Performance
A GED can help individuals perform better in their roles as commercial drivers. The skills and knowledge gained through a GED can enhance their ability to handle the technical and operational aspects of their job.
Increased Credibility
A GED can increase an individual’s credibility in the eyes of potential employers and peers. It demonstrates a level of dedication and commitment to personal and professional development.
Broader Career Options
A GED can also lead to broader career options within the trucking industry. It can open doors to roles that require more advanced skills or responsibilities, such as supervisory positions or specialized training.
If you’re pursuing your GED, we’re here to support you every step of the way with our comprehensive study materials and all the resources necessary to prepare for and pass the GED test. Enroll in our GED Test Prep program today to begin your journey toward earning your GED diploma.
Comparison of Acceptance Rates for Trucking Schools GED vs. High School Diploma
When it comes to enrolling in trucking schools, there is a clear difference in acceptance rates between people who hold a GED credential, those with a traditional high school diploma, and those without any credential.
High School Diploma Holders
Trucking schools generally view a high school diploma as the preferred educational credential for admission. Applicants with a high school diploma are typically seen as having a stronger academic foundation and better preparation for the rigors of CDL training.
Acceptance Rates
Trucking schools overwhelmingly accept applicants with a high school diploma. In fact, many schools require a high school diploma as a strict prerequisite for enrollment.
The acceptance rate for high school diploma holders is estimated to be around 95-100%.
GED Credential Holders
While trucking schools do accept applicants with a GED credential, they may view them as having a slightly less robust educational background compared to high school diploma holders.
Acceptance Rates
The acceptance rate for GED credential holders is still quite high, estimated to be around 90-95%. However, this is slightly lower than the rate for high school diploma holders.
Some trucking schools may have additional requirements or scrutiny for GED applicants to ensure they possess the necessary skills and knowledge.
Individuals Without a Diploma or GED
Applicants who do not have either a high school diploma or a GED credential face the greatest challenges when trying to enroll in trucking schools.
Acceptance Rates
Trucking schools are generally very reluctant to accept applicants without a high school diploma or GED. The acceptance rate for these individuals is estimated to be only around 50-60%.
Many schools will outright reject applications from those without the minimum educational credential.
Obtaining a GED or high school diploma is a crucial step for those seeking to enroll in and succeed in a trucking training program.
FAQS
What Do You Need to Become a Truck Driver in California?
In California, the basic requirements to become a truck driver include having a valid driver’s license, passing a medical exam, and obtaining a commercial driver’s license (CDL). The type of CDL needed depends on the size and weight of the vehicle being operated.
While a high school diploma or GED is not strictly required, many trucking companies prefer candidates with at least a GED to ensure they have the necessary reading, writing, and math skills for the job. It’s important to note that you can pursue your GED in California.
Aspiring truck drivers may also need to complete specialized training programs or obtain endorsements for certain vehicle types or hazardous materials transportation.
Do You Need a Ged for CDL Texas?
In Texas, a GED certificate is not strictly required to obtain a commercial driver’s license (CDL). However, many trucking companies prefer candidates with at least a high school diploma or GED to ensure they have the necessary reading, writing, and math skills for the job.
Read more: GED in Texas
To get a CDL in Texas, you must be at least 18 years old, have a valid driver’s license, pass a medical exam, and complete a state-approved CDL training program.
Do You Need a High School Diploma for CDL in Ohio?
In Ohio, having a high school diploma or GED is not strictly necessary to obtain a commercial driver’s license (CDL). However, many trucking companies favor candidates with at least a high school diploma or GED to confirm they possess essential skills. It’s still possible to earn your GED in Ohio.
To obtain a CDL in Ohio, you must be at least 18 years old, hold a valid driver’s license, pass a medical exam, and successfully complete a state-approved CDL training program.
Do You Need a Ged to Be a Truck Driver in California?
In California, a GED certificate is not strictly required to become a truck driver. However, many trucking companies prefer candidates with at least a high school diploma or GED to ensure they have the necessary skills.
The main requirements are a valid driver’s license, passing a medical exam, and obtaining a commercial driver’s license (CDL).
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