CDL Pathways
CDL Pathways
Our CDL Pathways program provides a convenient, one-stop solution for individuals pursuing a Class B Commercial Driver License (CDL) to operate a school bus or other Class B vehicle. Please see all components and services needed to get you on the road safely!
Services
Please complete the enrollment form at the link below, whether you are needing one or all services provided to complete your CDL journey!
Click Here 👉 CDL PATHWAYS ENROLLMENT FORM
- Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) Preparation Course – $350
This course is to provide drivers with the Texas Commercial Motor Vehicle Drivers Handbook, testing materials and studying tools to prepare them for their DPS Commercial Learner’s Permit Exams including Texas Special Requirements, General Knowledge, Air Brakes, Passenger (if applicable), and School Bus (if applicable) to obtain the appropriate Class B Commercial Learner’s Permit.
- Entry Level Driver Training (ELDT) Theory – Online Modules – $350
ELDT Theory refers to the knowledge portion of Entry Level Driver Training – a federal requirement by FMCSA that CDL applicants must complete before taking their CDL tests. It covers safety, regulations, vehicle systems, basic operation, and non-driving knowledge. (49 CFR Part 380)
- Behind-the-Wheel Instruction (up to 30 hours) – $1800
Behind-the-Wheel Instruction can only take place once the driver has successfully earned their Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP). Here, a DPS-approved trainer will train drivers to become proficient in pre-trip inspection and skills behind the wheel of a Class B vehicle or bus.
Note: Once 30 hours have been logged, drivers can request additional training hours for their comfortability. Additional fees apply.
- Entry Level Driver Training (ELDT) Final Evaluation – Range – $250
ELDT Final Evaluation for Range is a requirement under FMCSA that tests drivers’ proficiency in pre-trip inspections, vehicle service requirements, basic vehicle control, and more.
Please be aware that both ELDT Final Evaluations for Range and Road are required by FMCSA to be completed with a DPS approved trainer before taking their CDL tests.
- Entry Level Driver Training (ELDT) Final Evaluation – Road – $250
ELDT Final Evaluation for Road is a requirement under FMCSA that tests drivers’ proficiency of the Behind-the-Wheel curriculum with an on-road, real-world driving condition evaluation.
Please be aware that both ELDT Final Evaluations for Range and Road are required by FMCSA to be completed with a DPS approved trainer before taking their CDL tests.
- School Bus Driver Certification 20 Hour Course – $125
School Bus Driver Training is a state-mandated program to train school bus drivers. The purpose of this training is to reduce the injury/death of school-age students while being transported to and from school and on school-sponsored trips. Region 6 ESC provides the 20-hour certification training, as outlined in the Course Guide for School Bus Driver Training in Texas, that all school bus drivers are required to take. This course can be taken at the earliest convenience of the driver, whether or not they have already obtained their CDL.
Click here to view our upcoming certification class schedule!
- CDL Class B Third Party Testing – 1st Attempt: $150/ 2nd & 3rd Attempt: $100
Our Third-Party CDL Skills Testing Program offers a convenient, Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS)–approved option for individuals seeking to earn or upgrade a Class B Commercial Driver License (CDL). All testing is conducted by DPS-certified third-party examiners and follows all Texas DPS standards and procedures.
- Additional Behind-the-Wheel Instruction – $75/hour
After the initial 30 hours of training have been met, drivers who still do not feel comfortable enough to test can request additional hours of Behind-the-Wheel instruction.
- Region 6 ESC Bus Usage – $100/service
For drivers who need to utilize the Region 6 ESC Bus for their ELDT Final Evaluation or Third Party Testing, we can provide the school bus onsite. Please be aware that even if you are not planning to be a school bus driver, if you do not have access to any other Class B vehicle to test in, drivers will be required to obtain their Passenger (P) and School Bus (S) endorsements on their CLP.
Drivers who are providing their own vehicles to test in will not acquire this fee; however, applicant-provided vehicles must meet all Texas DPS safety requirements, and all required documentation must be submitted prior to testing. Failure to provide a compliant vehicle or proper documentation may result in cancellation or rescheduling.
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