Founded in 1973 by U.S. Army Veteran Thomas Gast, Truck Driver Institute (TDI) is an adult vocational school that trains individuals and couples to get their Commercial Driver License (CDL). For over 53 years, TDI has been training CDL drivers and getting them on the road, and our history stands as a testament to our dedication to the next generation of drivers.
Our school has grown to 8 campuses across the country and is the largest Class A CDL School east of the Rockies, not owned by a trucking company. We pride ourselves on being able to provide ongoing job placement* with our numerous carrier partners. Our campus locations include:
💡 Key Takeaway
Truck Driver Institute has over 53 years of experience training CDL drivers for the road. Since 1973, we’ve combined classroom education with on-the-road experience to create an atmosphere of preparedness. Get started with your next career at a TDI campus today.
Become a Truck Driver with the TDI 3-Week Program
We offer an affordable, immersive instructional program, led by experienced drivers, that teaches you how to go from novice to road-ready in just three weeks.
We prepare you to take all aspects of the CDL test. We are approved, third-party examiners at most of our campuses.
We go the extra mile to ensure that you obtain your CDL and find a job in the trucking industry. We currently hold an over 80% placement rate for our graduates!
Accelerate Your Future
Program Benefits with the Truck Driver Institute
- Your new career is waiting for you at the Truck Driver Institute! With new CDL classes each Monday, there’s no waiting around to get started on your pathway to becoming a commercial truck driver. Call us on a Friday, get started by Monday – that’s the TDI difference.
- Our 15-day intensive class was developed and is updated regularly by seasoned, professional truck drivers who have millions of miles logged in the trucking industry. Our instructors are often veterans and former drivers themselves, so you know you’re getting high-quality training from experienced professionals.
- As a TDI student, you’ll go through classroom instruction, hands-on training within the safety of a large, off-road driving range, and on-the-road driving instruction in modern training vehicles.
- Live 50 miles or more away from campus? You’ll automatically qualify for our lodging program to help pay for your stay at a local hotel while you train.
- From the first day of class, TDI provides you with job placement assistance. We work with many carriers who offer great benefits such as medical insurance, 401K, and tuition reimbursement.
- Get job placement assistance with 20+ top carriers who hire TDI graduates over those from other truck driver CDL training schools. We also have a no-carrier-contract obligation, so you can choose the path that is best for you.
- TDI has a graduate placement rate of 89% in 2025, and we’re not slowing down this year either!
Veteran Benefits at the TDI
Veterans and active-duty service members protect our nation, and we aspire to give back to those who have served. At the TDI, you can put your military benefits to work and get started on your career as a licensed Class A driver. Our campuses are approved for GI Bill® education benefits for veterans, active-duty service members, and eligible dependents. Talk to one of our incredible recruiters today to discuss eligibility.
THE TDI DIFFERENCE
1
Our school is not a “mom and pop shop” or “CDL Mill.” TDI is an industry leader with a respected reputation for excellence, safety and integrity. We don’t use simulators – just real. hands-on experience alongside training from professional instructors.
2
TDI is an approved third-party CDL examiner for every state where our campuses are located that allows third-party testing. In those states, a trip to the DMV isn’t necessary for the exam (though students still go there to buy a license).
3
With our caring admissions representatives who are ready to answer your every question, instructors who push you to do your very best, and carrier partners that rely on us to provide them with the best truck drivers to meet their never-ending need, TDI is with you all the way.
4
Truck Driver Institute works hard to be your gateway to a new career. Give us 15 days and we can literally change your life and the lives of those you love and support.
5
As a TDI graduate you will have your commercial driver’s license, a diploma, and job opportunities with good pay, plus all of the benefits your family deserves including medical insurance, dental insurance, 401K retirement, and more.
6
Our 4:1 student-to-instructor ratio makes each student’s experience both personal and professional. There’s no fighting for attention, as classes are designed to make the most of your 3-week program and get you on the road.
TDI vs. Standard Vocational School
| TDI | Vocational School | |
|---|---|---|
| ELDT training | ✓ | |
| Ongoing job placement | ✓ | |
| Comprehensive 3-week program | ✓ | |
| Hands-on training (no simulators) | ✓ | |
| On-site training and testing | ✓ | |
| Established since 1973 | ✓ | |
| 80% job placement with thecarrier of your choice | ✓ | |
| Freedom to choose your employer | ✓ | |
| Contract requirements with carriers | X | |
| Lower pay right out of graduation | X | |
| Simulator training | X |
Week 1 of Becoming a Truck Driver
You’ll spend your first week at the Truck Driver Institute gaining a general knowledge of CDL guidelines and processes to help you prepare for sections 1, 2, and 3 of the state CDL manual. You’ll also get a chance to learn about section 5: air brakes, and section 6: combination vehicles.
Our instructors will guide you on how to read a map and plan your route/trip as well as the Smith System. You’ll take time to learn weight scales and how to stay within the legal limits as well as the process for cargo claims.
All TDI students are offered drug screenings and DOT Physical Exams prior to starting their courses.
By the end of your first week at the TDI, you’ll have basic mechanical knowledge and so much more!
Week 2 of Becoming a Truck Driver
Your second week will be filled with plenty of time on the driving range, getting comfortable with the rigs, and getting hands-on experience. You’ll focus on understanding and knowing the pre-trip inspection process to make sure you complete each assignment properly.
You will also receive instruction in backing maneuvers, straight line, and offset backing. You’ll even finish your week by beginning driving on the road with gradual progression from low-traffic to light-traffic and more.
Week 3 of Becoming a Truck Driver
During your third and final week of instruction, you will practice your advanced driving skills both on the driving range and on the highway. You’ll also get to experience driving at night and in low-light conditions.
To conclude your final week, you will get an on-site CDL driving skills test on the highway and street. After you’ve passed your test, you will proceed to graduation with your peers and prepare to join the ranks of truck drivers all around the country.
FAQs About the TDI
Why should I choose TDI over another vocational school?
The Truck Driver Institute offers a myriad of benefits not available at other schools including rolling enrollment so you don’t have to wait to get started, hands-on training rather than simulators, a straightforward 3-week program, and an over 80% placement success rate. For more information about why the TDI is right for you, contact us today.
Is the Truck Driver Institute reputable?
Yes! We have been educating the next generation of truck drivers for the last 53 years, and we’re not stopping any time soon! Our proven track record of successful students speaks volumes – check out our testimonials!
How long does it take to become a truck driver?
With the TDI program, it takes only 3 weeks to get started on your next career as a truck driver. We also offer rolling enrollment, so you don’t need to wait to join. Call us on a Friday afternoon, and you’ll be ready to start classes by Monday.
CALL US TODAY AT 800-848-7364
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