It's time to apply! Start classes as early as June 1. Apply Now

Search
Search
Back to home page ProgramsTransportationTruck DrivingTruck DrivingCourses
Printed on 5/18/2026

Truck Driving

Apply Now Request Info
30-458-1 Technical Diploma (TD) Full Time 8 Credits Not Financial Aid Eligible Location*: Appleton or Chilton or Clintonville or Wautoma

*If general education courses are required, they may be available at multiple locations. 

There is a strong demand for professional truck drivers, and this program can help you prepare for an exciting career on the road. As a professional truck driver, you are responsible for the safe, efficient delivery of goods between locations. You'll have lots of time behind the wheel learning how to maneuver trucks into tight parking spaces, through narrow alleys and up to loading platforms. You'll develop backing and driving skills through classroom, lab, range and roadway experiences. You'll also cover communications with fellow drivers, dispatchers, shippers, mechanics and law enforcement personnel. In addition, you'll learn how to complete the necessary paperwork and appropriate inspections. You'll have the skills, knowledge and certifications you need to earn your Class A commercial driver's license (CDL) and start your career.

*The Truck Driving program meets the licensure or certification educational requirements for Wisconsin and the College is not aware of whether the program meets the requirements for other states. [Learn more about professional licensure](https://www.fvtc.edu/about-us/facts/student-consumer-information/professional-licensure-and-certification-disclosure) for this program.*

COURSE LIST

Print Page

Course list for reference only. Current students please refer to your individualized program plan or see your advisor.
**Outside effort hours are an estimate based on state standards, and may vary from person to person.

    Occupational Specific (8 Credits)

    Course Title
    Course Number
    Credits
    Instructional Hours
    Outside Effort Hours**
    Early College Credit Options
    Prior Learning Credit Eligibility
  • Intro to Truck Driving
    30-458-341
    1Credit
    36
    18
    N/A

    • Instructional Hours: 36
    • Outside Effort Hours: 18
    • Course Number: 30458341
    • Credits: 1.00

    Students will attend an in-person or virtual Intro to Truck Driving course, which includes welcome material, a tour of Truck Driving facilities, and an overview of the syllabus and course outcomes, along with Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSR's) information. An overview of vehicle control systems, pre-, en-route, and post-trip inspections will be given, as well as an introduction to vehicle transmissions and shifting using our state-of-the-art truck simulators.

    Coreq: Student has completed or is simultaneously enrolling in ALL of the following:

    • TRUCKDR 94458001 - Truck Driving Books & Supplies
  • Basic Operation of a Commercial Vehicle
    30-458-342
    1Credit
    36
    18
    N/A

    • Instructional Hours: 36
    • Outside Effort Hours: 18
    • Course Number: 30458342
    • Credits: 1.00

    Course covers basic operation of a combination commercial motor vehicle, along with a demonstration of air brake systems. Proper techniques for coupling/uncoupling of a Class A commercial combination vehicle will be reviewed and practiced, along with basic backing exercises.

    Coreq: Student has completed or is simultaneously enrolling in ALL of the following:

    • TRUCKDR 30458341 - Intro to Truck Driving
  • Range Maneuvers of a Commercial Vehicle
    30-458-343
    1Credit
    36
    18
    N/A

    • Instructional Hours: 36
    • Outside Effort Hours: 18
    • Course Number: 30458343
    • Credits: 1.00

    Students will continue to build on backing skills, to include 90- and 45-degree backing and parallel backing maneuvers, as well as other slow maneuver operating practices.

    Coreq: Student has completed or is simultaneously enrolling in ALL of the following:

    • TRUCKDR 30458341 - Intro to Truck Driving

    • TRUCKDR 30458342 - Basic Operation of a Commercial Vehicle
  • Safe Commercial Vehicle Operation
    30-458-344
    1Credit
    36
    18
    N/A

    • Instructional Hours: 36
    • Outside Effort Hours: 18
    • Course Number: 30458344
    • Credits: 1.00

    Course covers behind-the-wheel safe commercial vehicle operations, including driver behavior, communication with other vehicles, and speed/space management. Hours of service will also be covered.

    Coreq: Student has completed or is simultaneously enrolling in ALL of the following:

    • TRUCKDR 30458341 - Intro to Truck Driving

    • TRUCKDR 30458342 - Basic Operation of a Commercial Vehicle

    • TRUCKDR 30458343 - Range Maneuvers of a Commercial Vehicle
  • Road Maneuvers of a Commercial Vehicle
    30-458-345
    1Credit
    36
    18
    N/A

    • Instructional Hours: 36
    • Outside Effort Hours: 18
    • Course Number: 30458345
    • Credits: 1.00

    Students will begin behind-the-wheel activities in a Class A commercial combination vehicle on a public roadway in a variety of situations, including: roundabouts, turns, lane changes, on/off ramps, interstate driving, and railroad crossings. Students will also be introduced to CDL test items.

    Coreq: Student has completed or is simultaneously enrolling in ALL of the following:

    • TRUCKDR 30458341 - Intro to Truck Driving

    • TRUCKDR 30458342 - Basic Operation of a Commercial Vehicle

    • TRUCKDR 30458343 - Range Maneuvers of a Commercial Vehicle

    • TRUCKDR 30458344 - Safe Commercial Vehicle Operation
  • Advanced Operating Procedures
    30-458-346
    1Credit
    36
    18
    N/A

    • Instructional Hours: 36
    • Outside Effort Hours: 18
    • Course Number: 30458346
    • Credits: 1.00

    Students will further their knowledge of operating procedures with behind-the-wheel activities and online learning to understand and prepare for: night operation, extreme driving conditions, skid control/recovery, emergency maneuvers, and button-hooks. How to avoid distracted driving and hazards will also be covered.

    Coreq: Student has completed or is simultaneously enrolling in ALL of the following:

    • TRUCKDR 30458341 - Intro to Truck Driving

    • TRUCKDR 30458342 - Basic Operation of a Commercial Vehicle

    • TRUCKDR 30458343 - Range Maneuvers of a Commercial Vehicle

    • TRUCKDR 30458344 - Safe Commercial Vehicle Operation

    • TRUCKDR 30458345 - Road Maneuvers of a Commercial Vehicle
  • Vehicle Systems and Reporting Malfunctions
    30-458-347
    1Credit
    36
    18
    N/A

    • Instructional Hours: 36
    • Outside Effort Hours: 18
    • Course Number: 30458347
    • Credits: 1.00

    Course covers identification/diagnosis of malfunctions on a Class A commercial combination vehicle, how to handle roadside inspections, basic maintenance, and sliding tandems and 5th wheels, as well as a variety of vehicle technologies. Compliance and safety will be covered, along with how to handle cargo and specialty vehicle operations (doubles/triples, flatbed, tanker, etc.). 

    Coreq: Student has completed or is simultaneously enrolling in ALL of the following:

    • TRUCKDR 30458341 - Intro to Truck Driving

    • TRUCKDR 30458342 - Basic Operation of a Commercial Vehicle

    • TRUCKDR 30458343 - Range Maneuvers of a Commercial Vehicle

    • TRUCKDR 30458344 - Safe Commercial Vehicle Operation

    • TRUCKDR 30458345 - Road Maneuvers of a Commercial Vehicle

    • TRUCKDR 30458346 - Advanced Operating Procedures
  • Non-Driving Activities
    30-458-348
    1Credit
    36
    18
    N/A

    • Instructional Hours: 36
    • Outside Effort Hours: 18
    • Course Number: 30458348
    • Credits: 1.00

    Students will learn a variety of non-driving techniques/procedures important to day-to-day operations of a Class A commercial combination vehicle. These include, but are not limited to: trip planning, business practices, wellness/fatigue prevention, post-crash procedures, and external communication. Special situations and circumstances, along with medical requirements for commercial licensing, will be covered as well.

    Coreq: Student has completed or is simultaneously enrolling in ALL of the following:

    • TRUCKDR 30458341 - Intro to Truck Driving

    • TRUCKDR 30458342 - Basic Operation of a Commercial Vehicle

    • TRUCKDR 30458343 - Range Maneuvers of a Commercial Vehicle

    • TRUCKDR 30458344 - Safe Commercial Vehicle Operation

    • TRUCKDR 30458345 - Road Maneuvers of a Commercial Vehicle

    • TRUCKDR 30458346 - Advanced Operating Procedures

    • TRUCKDR 30458347 - Vehicle Systems and Reporting Malfunctions
×

Expected Competencies

For more information visit our Credit For Prior Learning page.
×

Eligible Dual Credit Course

What is Dual Credit?

FVTC courses taught at the high school by certified high school teachers. These teachers receive mentorship from FVTC faculty to ensure alignment in competencies, curriculum, and assessments.


  • Students earn both high school and college credits, with grades applying to both transcripts.
  • There is no cost to the school district or family.
  • Dual Credit course availability varies by high school based on factors such as lab space, equipment, and teacher qualifications.

Process:

As part of the annual course planning, students and families should meet with their High School Guidance Counselor to discuss future college and career goals. This conversation will help identify Dual Credit courses that best align with specific pathways.

×

Recommended Start College Now Course

What is Start College Now?

Qualified public-school juniors and seniors may enroll in college level classes at FVTC or online, if a comparable course is not offered within their district.

Student Eligibility Requirements:

  • Must have parent/guardian approval.
  • Must meet all course entry requirements.
  • Must be in good academic standing with an acceptable disciplinary record.

Application Process:

Interested students should consult their High School Guidance Counselor to explore course options and complete a “Start College Now” application. Applications must be submitted to High School Counselors by March 1st for fall courses and October 1st for spring courses. If approved by the school board, the cost is covered by the high school.

×

Eligible Dual Credit & Recommended Start College Now Course:

What is Dual Credit?

FVTC courses taught at the high school by certified high school teachers. These teachers receive mentorship from FVTC faculty to ensure alignment in competencies, curriculum, and assessments.

  • Students earn both high school and college credits, with grades applying to both transcripts.
  • There is no cost to the school district or family.

**Dual Credit course availability varies by high school based on factors such as lab space, equipment, and teacher qualifications.

What is Start College Now?

Qualified public-school juniors and seniors may enroll in college level classes at FVTC or online, if a comparable course is not offered within their district.

Student Eligibility Requirements:

  • Must have parent/guardian approval.
  • Must meet all course entry requirements.
  • Must be in good academic standing with an acceptable disciplinary record.

Application Process:

Interested students should consult their High School Guidance Counselor to explore course options and complete a “Start College Now” application. Applications must be submitted to High School Counselors by March 1st for fall courses and October 1st for spring courses. If approved by the school board, the cost is covered by the high school.

×

N/A

This course is not available for Dual Credit or Start College Now due to factors such as course rigor, necessary equipment, and prerequisite requirements.