What American Truck Training Offers in Oklahoma City
American Truck Training is a private commercial driver's license (CDL) school located in Oklahoma City that teaches the skills and knowledge needed to pass Oklahoma's CDL exam. The school provides classroom instruction, behind-the-wheel training, and test preparation for people who want to drive commercial trucks professionally. You attend their facility, complete their curriculum, and then take the state exam through the Oklahoma Department of Public Safety.
The school focuses on Class A CDL training, which is the license you need to drive tractor-trailers and other large combination vehicles. They also offer refresher courses and training for drivers who already hold a CDL but need to update their skills or knowledge. The instruction covers vehicle inspection, safe driving practices, air brake systems, and the federal regulations that govern commercial driving.
Unlike getting your CDL through self-study or a smaller local program, attending a dedicated truck driving school means you have structured classroom time, access to training trucks, and instructors who test you before you sit for the state exam. This reduces the chance you'll fail the official test and have to pay the exam fee again.
Key Takeaways
- American Truck Training in Oklahoma City teaches Class A CDL training through classroom instruction and hands-on driving practice with their own vehicles.
- You must pass both a written knowledge test and a practical driving test administered by the Oklahoma Department of Public Safety to receive your CDL.
- The school's training prepares you for the specific skills and safety rules the state exam tests, including vehicle inspection and air brake operation.
- You will need to hold a valid Oklahoma driver's license and pass a medical examination (DOT physical) before you can take the CDL exam.
- Training programs vary in length and cost depending on the school's curriculum, so contact American Truck Training directly for their current schedule and fees.
What You Need Before You Start Training
Before you enroll at American Truck Training or any CDL school, you must have a valid Oklahoma driver's license. The school will not train you without one. You also need to pass a Department of Transportation (DOT) physical examination performed by a certified medical examiner. This exam checks your vision, hearing, blood pressure, and overall health to make sure you are medically fit to operate a commercial vehicle. You can find a DOT medical examiner through the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) website or ask American Truck Training for a referral.
You will also need to obtain a Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP) from the Oklahoma Department of Public Safety before you can legally practice driving a commercial truck. To get a CLP, you pass the written knowledge test at an Oklahoma DPS office. Many CDL schools help their students prepare for this test, and some students pass it before they enroll in the school's driving program. Once you have your CLP, you can practice driving under the supervision of a licensed CDL holder.
Bring documents that prove your identity, Social Security number, and Oklahoma residency when you explore for your CLP. The Oklahoma DPS website lists the exact documents they accept. Having these ready before you contact American Truck Training will speed up your enrollment process.
How the Training Program Works
American Truck Training's program combines classroom learning with practical driving instruction. In the classroom, you learn federal motor carrier safety regulations, vehicle systems, cargo handling, and hazmat awareness if you plan to transport hazardous materials. The instructors teach you how to inspect a commercial truck before driving it—checking brakes, lights, tires, and coupling systems—because the state exam includes a pre-trip inspection test.
The behind-the-wheel portion takes place in the school's training trucks. An instructor rides with you and teaches you how to operate a large vehicle, manage air brakes, back up safely, and handle different road conditions. You practice in Oklahoma City and surrounding areas, learning the specific maneuvers the state exam tests. The instructor evaluates your performance and identifies areas where you need more practice before you take the official test.
The length of the program depends on how many hours of instruction the school provides and how quickly you progress. Most full-time CDL programs run between three and eight weeks. Contact American Truck Training directly to learn their current program length, class schedule, and whether they offer part-time or evening options.
The Oklahoma CDL Exam and What It Tests
After you complete training, you take the official CDL exam administered by the Oklahoma Department of Public Safety. The exam has three parts: a written knowledge test, a pre-trip vehicle inspection test, and a behind-the-wheel driving test. You must pass all three to receive your CDL.
The written test covers federal regulations, safe driving practices, air brake systems, and vehicle operation. You answer multiple-choice questions on a computer at an Oklahoma DPS office. The pre-trip inspection test requires you to walk around a commercial truck, point out key components, and explain what you are checking and why. The examiner watches and listens to make sure you know the truck's systems.
The driving test lasts about 30 to 45 minutes. The examiner sits in the truck with you and directs you through a route that includes city streets, highway driving, and parking maneuvers. You must demonstrate smooth acceleration and braking, proper lane positioning, mirror checking, and safe backing. The examiner scores you on safety, control, and your knowledge of traffic laws. Failing any section means you do not receive your CDL and must retake that section.
Cost and Payment Options
The cost of CDL training varies by school and program length. American Truck Training's tuition depends on whether you choose a full-time or part-time program, how many weeks of instruction you need, and what additional endorsements you want (such as hazmat or tanker). You will also pay separate fees to the Oklahoma Department of Public Safety for your CLP and CDL exams, though these are state fees, not school fees.
Contact American Truck Training directly for their current pricing, payment plans, and any discounts they may offer. Some schools offer financing options or work with employers who reimburse training costs. Some students use GI Bill benefits or vocational rehabilitation programs if they are military veterans or have disabilities. Ask the school whether they accept these forms of payment.
Beyond tuition, budget for your DOT physical exam (typically $100 to $200), the CLP written test fee, and the CDL exam fees. These costs vary slightly by year and by which Oklahoma DPS office you use, so check the Oklahoma DPS website for current fees.
After You Receive Your CDL
Once you pass all three parts of the CDL exam, the Oklahoma Department of Public Safety issues your commercial driver's license. Your CDL is valid for eight years in Oklahoma. You can then explore for jobs with trucking companies, owner-operator positions, or other commercial driving roles.
Your CDL comes with restrictions or endorsements depending on what you tested for. A Class A CDL without endorsements allows you to drive tractor-trailers. If you want to haul hazardous materials, you need a Hazmat endorsement, which requires a separate written test and a federal background check. If you want to transport passengers, you need a Passenger endorsement. American Truck Training can advise you on which endorsements match the jobs you are targeting.
You must renew your CDL every eight years by passing a new medical exam and paying the renewal fee. If you are convicted of certain traffic violations or safety violations while driving commercially, your CDL can be suspended or revoked. The Oklahoma DPS website lists the violations that trigger disqualification.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to attend a truck driving school to get my CDL in Oklahoma?
No. Oklahoma allows you to study on your own, pass the written test to get your CLP, practice driving with a CDL holder, and then take the state driving exam without attending a formal school. However, most people who attend a CDL school pass the exam on their first attempt because the school teaches exactly what the exam tests and provides practice in a training truck.
How long does it take to get a CDL after I enroll at American Truck Training?
Most full-time CDL programs take three to eight weeks from enrollment to exam day. The exact timeline depends on the school's curriculum, how many hours of instruction you receive, and how quickly you master the skills. Contact American Truck Training for their specific program length and start dates.
What happens if I fail the CDL exam?
If you fail any section of the exam, you can retake that section after waiting a set period (usually a few days). You pay the exam fee again for each retake. Many CDL schools offer refresher training or additional practice if you do not pass on your first attempt. Ask American Truck Training whether they provide free or low-cost retake preparation.
Can I get a CDL if I have a medical condition?
It depends on the condition and how it affects your ability to safely operate a commercial vehicle. The DOT physical examiner determines whether you meet medical standards. Some conditions disqualify you outright; others may require a waiver or special certification. Discuss any health concerns with your doctor or the medical examiner before you explore.
Do I need to pass a background check to get a CDL?
Oklahoma requires a background check for your CDL process. Certain criminal convictions, particularly those involving drugs or violence, can disqualify you. If you have a criminal history, contact the Oklahoma DPS or American Truck Training to learn whether you are may be able to access before you enroll in training.