Specialized Driver Training

The Clark State Truck Driver Training Institute offers a course for individuals who would like to train students to become CDL licensed drivers. The Ohio Department of Public Safety requires new instructors to attend 86 hours of training prior to applying for an instructor's license to train CDL drivers. This 12-day course will provide 86 hours of documented training covering the required lessons as per the Ohio Administration Code 4501-7.

To be eligible to attend this training and acquire an instructor's license, you must meet the following prerequisites:

• Possess a CDL and have driven a CMV for at least three years
• Pass a DOT physical and drug screen
• Have a clean MVR and pass a background check
• Be of good character and fitness
• Pass a written exam and a driving test

Fees for testing are covered in the cost of tuition. Clark State will apply for the instructor license upon successful completion of the training. Participants will receive a certificate of successful completion of the course. Instructor candidates will be licensed by ODOPS and eligible for employment by other truck driver training schools. Classes will be held on an as-needed basis.

The FMCSR 395 requires drivers of commercial motor vehicles to log their hours of service during their duty day. Clark State offers an eight-hour course designed for the entry level driver who has no experience keeping log books. For experienced drivers who need a refresher or update of rules, we offer a four-hour course that will help keep them in compliance with HOS regulations. The course covers both the theoretical and practical sides of logging HOS. Individuals will cover the information contained in FMCSR Part 395. They will then apply this information by walking through a practice exercise with their instructor, and finally doing practice logging scenarios. All participants will receive a certificate after successful completion of the course.

Professional Truck Driver Course
This six-hour DDC course provides entry-level, as well as seasoned drivers with the knowledge of defensive driving strategies required to drive collision and citation free. The course focuses on professional driver's needs and requirements to drive a large vehicle and also addresses common driving violations that result in collisions and how to change driving habits to eliminate moving violations.

All participants will receive the National Safety Council Defensive Driving Professional Truck Driver certification card after successful completion of the course.

All Drivers Course
This eight-hour DDC course is designed to provide all drivers of smaller vehicles, including vans and light duty trucks with knowledge and safe driving techniques to prevent collisions and violations. The course focuses on collision avoidance techniques. The course also addresses common driving violations that result in collisions and how to change driving habits to eliminate moving violations.

All participants will receive the National Safety Council Defensive Driving Professional Truck Driver certification card after successful completion of the course.

The Smith System is designed for seasoned, as well as entry level drivers of large trucks. Using the 5 keys to safety, drivers are taught driving techniques which will help save lives and property and prevent financial losses by reducing insurance claims, fuel usage and repairs.

The Smith System is based on the 5 keys:

1. Aim high in steering
2. Get the big picture
3. Keep your eyes moving
4. Leave yourself an out
5. Make sure they see you

Drivers will use a driving simulator to practice commentary driving skills and to determine "at risk" driving habits that need to change.

All participants will receive a certificate after successful completion of the course.

Are your drivers in compliance with FMCSR? FMCSR Part 380 requires all entry level drivers (less than one year driving experience) to receive training in four specific areas:

1. Driver qualification requirements
2. Driver wellness
3. Hours of service
4. Whistle blower protection laws

This course covers all four areas. The HOS training can be tailored as a review or as a detailed course. All participants will receive a certificate after successful completion of the course.

For more information on any of these specialized courses, contact the Truck Driver Training Institute at 1-866-CDL-4185 or 937/328-6139. You may also visit us on the Leffel Lane Campus in Shull Hall.