Commercial Driving Instructor Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the fast-paced world of logistics, the demand for skilled commercial driving instructors is rapidly increasing.

As the global supply chain continues to expand, the need for competent professionals who can train, guide, and ensure the safety of our commercial drivers intensifies.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a commercial driving instructor?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the intricacies of commercial driving instruction,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a comprehensive and customizable commercial driving instructor job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Commercial Driving Instructor Duties and Responsibilities

Commercial Driving Instructors play a crucial role in educating and preparing individuals to operate commercial vehicles safely and efficiently.

These professionals need to have excellent driving skills, comprehensive knowledge about traffic laws and regulations, and the ability to teach others.

Their primary duties and responsibilities include:

• Evaluating students’ driving skills and knowledge about traffic rules
• Preparing and delivering lessons on a range of driving topics such as defensive driving, safety procedures, and road rules
• Demonstrating and teaching practical driving skills, including vehicle operation, parking, reversing, and maneuvering
• Creating real-life driving scenarios to enhance students’ understanding and skills
• Teaching students how to handle emergencies and adverse driving conditions
• Administering and grading written and practical driving tests
• Helping students develop confidence and competence in their driving abilities
• Maintaining records of students’ progress and providing feedback
• Keeping up-to-date with changing traffic laws and regulations

 

Commercial Driving Instructor Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a dedicated Commercial Driving Instructor to join our team.

The Commercial Driving Instructor will be responsible for teaching students driving skills, safety procedures, and legal regulations necessary to obtain a commercial driver’s license.

The ideal candidate will have a professional driving background, possess excellent communication skills, and have a passion for teaching and imparting driving skills to others.

 

Responsibilities

• Provide practical and theory instruction in line with Department of Transportation regulations.
• Evaluate the driving ability and level of each student and tailor driving lessons accordingly.
• Instruct students on safety regulations, vehicle maintenance, and other specialized areas of commercial driving.
• Prepare students for the driving test, including instruction on parking, steering control, and trailer coupling.
• Monitor students’ progress, provide constructive feedback, and recommend additional practice if needed.
• Maintain records of student training and progress.
• Conduct first-aid and safety training sessions.
• Ensure all training vehicles are kept in good working condition.

 

Qualifications

• Valid Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) and clean driving record.
• Proven work experience as a commercial driver or driving instructor is preferred.
• Extensive knowledge of commercial driving rules and regulations.
• Excellent communication and instructional skills.
• High level of patience and an ability to deal with difficult students.
• Basic mechanical knowledge to troubleshoot vehicle issues.
• High school diploma or equivalent. A certificate from a recognized driving school is a plus.

 

Benefits

• 401(k) retirement plan
• Health and dental insurance
• Paid time off
• Training and development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Commercial Driving Instructor
• Work Environment: This job requires outdoor work and travel. The instructor may have to work in different weather conditions and must be comfortable driving for long periods.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Training Supervisor or Manager.
• Salary: Salary is dependent upon candidate’s experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $40,000 minimum to $60,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Commercial Driving Instructor Do?

Commercial Driving Instructors are responsible for teaching individuals the skills and knowledge needed to operate commercial vehicles such as trucks, buses, or taxis.

They typically work for driving schools, community colleges, and vocational schools.

Their main task involves developing lesson plans that cover the rules of the road, safe driving practices, and state laws pertaining to commercial driving.

These lessons can take place in a classroom setting, or one-on-one in the vehicle.

Commercial Driving Instructors also provide practical training, where they supervise and guide students during actual driving sessions.

They teach maneuvers, proper vehicle handling, parking, reversing, and skills required for highway or city driving.

They are also tasked with preparing students for the written and practical tests required to obtain a commercial driver’s license (CDL).

This involves mock tests, providing feedback, and working on areas of weakness.

In addition to teaching, Commercial Driving Instructors also have administrative duties such as monitoring student progress, maintaining records, and ensuring their training programs meet state and federal regulations.

They also stay updated on changes in laws and regulations that affect commercial drivers.

Their role is essential in ensuring the safety of commercial drivers and everyone else on the road by training skilled and responsible drivers.

 

Commercial Driving Instructor Qualifications and Skills

A commercial driving instructor should possess a set of qualifications and skills that meet the needs of the role, including:

• Strong knowledge and understanding of all rules and regulations pertaining to driving and road safety.
• Excellent communication skills to effectively teach students driving techniques, safety rules, and traffic regulations.
• Patience and the ability to remain calm under pressure, especially when students make mistakes or struggle with certain driving skills.
• Exceptional driving skills, and the ability to demonstrate them to students.
• Ability to evaluate each student’s driving skills and level of knowledge in order to tailor the lessons accordingly.
• Good observational skills to assess students’ abilities and readiness for driving tests.
• Interpersonal skills to build confidence and establish a comfortable learning environment for students.
• Physical endurance to spend long hours on the road.
• Problem-solving skills to help students overcome driving fears and difficulties.

 

Commercial Driving Instructor Experience Requirements

Commercial Driving Instructors typically need a high school diploma and must hold a valid commercial driver’s license (CDL).

They must have a clean driving record and should possess a minimum of 3 to 5 years of experience driving commercial vehicles.

The experience should be relevant and may involve handling different types of commercial vehicles, such as trucks, buses or vans.

They should be well-versed in vehicle mechanics, traffic rules, safety procedures, and emergency responses.

In addition to driving experience, it is also beneficial for the candidate to have a background in teaching or training roles.

This can help in effectively communicating the nuances of driving a commercial vehicle to the students.

Some driving schools or vocational schools may require their driving instructors to have completed a formal training program or certification course, which can further add to their practical experience.

For those aspiring to take up roles with more responsibilities, such as supervising other instructors or managing a driving school, additional years of experience in teaching or administrative roles could be required.

These candidates should display leadership skills and have a solid understanding of the regulations and operational aspects of running a driving school.

 

Commercial Driving Instructor Education and Training Requirements

Commercial Driving Instructors typically need to have a high school diploma or equivalent education.

Before becoming an instructor, they usually need to gain experience as a commercial driver.

This entails obtaining a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL), which requires passing a written test and a skills test.

The length of experience needed varies by state but is generally around two to three years.

To become an instructor, one must usually complete a state-approved instructor training program, which covers both driving laws and teaching techniques.

After completing the training program, prospective instructors must pass a certification exam to become licensed by their state to teach commercial driving.

This exam typically consists of a written portion and a driving demonstration.

In addition to these requirements, many states require instructors to undergo regular re-certification, which may involve taking additional courses or passing exams.

In addition to formal education and training, a good driving instructor needs to have patience, good communication skills, and a solid understanding of road safety rules and regulations.

While not always required, some driving instructors may choose to complete additional certifications to specialize in teaching certain types of commercial vehicles or driving techniques.

 

Commercial Driving Instructor Salary Expectations

A Commercial Driving Instructor can expect to earn an average salary of $48,500 (USD) per year.

However, this figure can fluctuate based on factors such as level of experience, specific qualifications, the region in which they are employed, and the specific policies of their employer.

 

Commercial Driving Instructor Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Commercial Driving Instructor need?

A Commercial Driving Instructor should have excellent communication and teaching skills to effectively impart driving lessons.

They need to be well-versed in traffic laws and safe driving practices.

Instructors should also possess strong observational skills to assess students’ performance accurately.

Patience and the ability to stay calm under pressure are also essential for this role.

 

Do Commercial Driving Instructors need a degree?

Commercial Driving Instructors don’t necessarily need a degree.

However, they must have a high school diploma or equivalent and a valid commercial driver’s license.

They also need to complete a state-approved instructor training program and pass the requisite exams to become certified as a driving instructor.

 

What should you look for in a Commercial Driving Instructor’s resume?

When reviewing a Commercial Driving Instructor’s resume, check for a valid commercial driver’s license and instructor certification.

Look for experience in teaching or training roles, as this shows they have the skills to impart knowledge effectively.

A clean driving record is also crucial.

Additional qualifications, like first aid training, can be a plus.

 

What qualities make a good Commercial Driving Instructor?

A good Commercial Driving Instructor is patient, as students may require repeated explanations and plenty of practice to master driving skills.

They should be able to communicate effectively, using simple and clear language to explain complex driving techniques.

Good instructors are also adaptable, able to adjust their teaching methods to suit different learning styles.

 

Is it difficult to hire a Commercial Driving Instructor?

Hiring a Commercial Driving Instructor can be challenging, as the role requires a unique combination of driving expertise, teaching skills, and a clean driving record.

In addition to these, the instructor must be certified and comfortable working with individuals of diverse backgrounds and ages.

Consequently, finding a qualified and suitable candidate may take time and careful consideration.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve taken a close look at what it truly entails to be a commercial driving instructor.

And guess what?

It’s not just about driving.

It’s about guiding the transportation future, one driver at a time.

With our trusted commercial driving instructor job description template and real-world examples, you’re all set to make a move.

But why stop there?

Dig deeper with our job description generator. It’s your next step to creating spot-on job listings or optimizing your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every lesson on the road is part of a broader journey.

Let’s steer that future. Together.

How to Become a Commercial Driving Instructor (Complete Guide)

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