• An integral part of training for drivers who want a Class A or Class B CDL is behind-the-wheel public road instruction.

Behind-the-wheel public road training is provided by a behind-the-wheel instructor when an entry-level driver has actual control of the power unit during a driving lesson conducted on a public road. Behind-the-wheel public road training does not include the time an entry-level driver spends observing the operation of a commercial motor vehicle (CMV) when that driver is not in control of the vehicle.

The instructor must engage in active two-way communication with the driver-trainee during all active behind-the-wheel public road training sessions.

The required public road training topics are:

• Vehicle controls, including:
  • Left turns
  • Right turns
  • Lane changes
  • Curves at highway speeds
  • Entry and exit on an interstate or controlled-access highway
• Shifting/Transmission
• Communications/Signaling
• Visual search
• Speed and space management
• Safe driver behavior
• Hours-of-service requirements
• Hazard perception*
• Railroad-highway grade crossing*
• Night operation*
• Extreme driving conditions*
• Skid control/recovery, jackknifing, and other emergencies*

*These topics must be discussed during public road training, but not necessarily performed. Driver-trainees are not required to demonstrate proficiency in these skills.