Ready to earn your CDL Class A license? Diamond 7 CDL Academy gives you everything you need — classroom instruction, range training, and real road experience — to pass your exam and launch a career in commercial trucking. Our Class A program can be completed in as little as 3 to 4 weeks.
Program Overview
- Total hours: 160 clock hours
- Duration: 3 weeks (4 weeks if completing ELDT in classroom)
- Delivery: Hybrid, classroom, or self-paced theory + behind-the-wheel training
- Location: 1910 Pacific Ave, Suite 9100, Dallas, TX 75201
- Classes start every week
Program Structure
Week 1 – Theory & Classroom
40 hours of ELDT (Entry Level Driver Training) theory. Choose your learning style:
- Hybrid Learning: Complete coursework at home or in our classroom
- Classroom Hours: Monday-Friday 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM,
- Self-Paced: Work at your own speed with instructor support available upon request
Week 2 & 3 – Range & Road Training
Behind-the-wheel training begins! Daily pre-trip inspections, backing skills (offset, parallel, straight-line), bobtail training, and progressive road training.
Week 3 – Testing & Certification
Pre-trip tests, backing tests, road tests, and final CDL testing throughout the week. This is where you earn your CDL!
Week 4+ – Optional Additional Time
Need more practice? We offer optional additional time based on test results and individual student needs. Requires approval based on attendance, progress, and behavior.
What You’ll Learn
Our CDL Class A program prepares you for every aspect of commercial truck driving — from the written permit test to the behind-the-wheel skills exam. Training includes:
- Pre-trip vehicle inspections
- Backing maneuvers — offset, parallel, and straight-line
- Bobtail and combination vehicle operation
- Local street, highway, and interstate road driving
- Hazardous materials identification, marking, and handling
- Paperwork and emergency response procedures
- CDL permit test preparation
Eligibility Requirements
- Must be at least 18 years of age
- Must be 21+ to drive interstate (pre-hire agreement required if under 21)
- Valid driver’s license required
- Must pass a DOT Physical Examination and Drug Test
- Must complete an admissions interview with a school-authorized representative
Diamond 7 welcomes applicants from diverse backgrounds including career transitioners, mature adults, and individuals seeking a fresh start. Contact our admissions team to discuss your specific situation.
Curriculum & Training Standards
Diamond 7’s Class A program is built around industry-leading curriculum and meets all federal FMCSA Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) requirements:
- JJ Keller — industry-standard CDL compliance and training materials
- BTW (Behind the Wheel) — practical skills training framework
- Ten Street — CDL test preparation
- CDL Powersuite — ELDT-compliant online theory platform
Tuition & Costs
Contact our admissions team for current Class A tuition information. We’ll walk you through all program costs, payment options, and available financial assistance before you enroll.
- Accepted payments: cash, check, credit/debit card, third-party financing Financial aid and workforce funding options may be available for eligible students
Graduation Requirements
To receive your Diploma of Completion you must:
- Score 80% or higher in theory and behind-the-wheel training
- Maintain 80% or higher attendance throughout the program
- Pass the CDL skills test and receive your CDL Class A license
- Satisfy all financial obligations to the school
Job placement assistance is available for qualifying graduates. Pre-hire agreements with quality trucking companies are available to those who qualify.
Ready to Get Started?
Classes start every week. Take the first step toward your CDL Class A license today.