© 2026 TRANSTECH. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

CDL Orientation Session

Start Your CDL Training with TransTech & Gaston College

Our experienced staff is committed to your success throughout your time here and even after you graduate. With modern facilities, small class sizes, and up-to-date equipment available at all our training locations, we ensure you receive the best training experience possible. What's more, our multiple training facilities across North Carolina make it incredibly convenient to start a new career.

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) implemented Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT), or federal requirements for commercial driver license applicants, in February 2022. Gaston College and Trans-Tech meet these requirements, and Trans-Tech is a registered provider for ELDT.

At the end of this program, successful students will:

  • • Complete 50 hours of online coursework (in class)
    • Obtain a Commercial Driver's License Permit from the NCDMV
    • Complete 110 hours for CDL-A and CDL-B behind-the-wheel training, including night driving
    • Take and pass the CDL skills test at the Trans-Tech facility at the end of the program

  • For more information on Trans-Tech's program, please visit the TransTech website.

YOUR CAREER JOURNEY BEGINS WITH TRANSTECH & GASTON COLLEGE

Admissions Requirements

Complete the information below

  • Hold a valid NC Driver’s License
    • Your license cannot be suspended, disqualified, or revoked
    • You should not have any restrictions on your driver’s license other than “corrective lenses”
    • You cannot hold more than one driver's license
  • Have a valid Social Security Card
  • Have an acceptable driving record*
  • Pass a criminal background check*
  • Pass a DOT physical and drug screen*
  • Complete Admissions Packet

Students interested in attending must have the following: 

  • Attend a no-cost, mandatory orientation session

Upcoming Orientation Sessions:

July 16th, 6:00 - 7:00pm

July 23rd, 2:00 - 3:00pm

August 6th, 6:00 - 7:00pm

August 20th, 2:00 - 3:00pm

Gaston College: Dallas Campus, Dalpiaz Building, Classroom 206
201 Highway 321 South Dallas, NC 28034
Map to Dallas Campus

  • Bring your valid driver's license and social security card.
  • Bring your cellphone. You will be using it for registration.
  • Must be able to understand, speak, read, and write English proficiently as per Federal Motor Carrier Safety Association Regulation
  • Be at least 18 years of age
  • Must be 21 years of age for interstate commerce or a Hazardous materials endorsement
  • No pre-registration is necessary for an orientation session. In the case of inclement weather closures, please check the Gaston College website before driving to campus.

*Background Check: A background check is completed as part of your tuition/fees paid to Gaston College. If you have any motor vehicle violations or criminal convictions, you may be required to obtain a pre-hire commitment letter from an employer in order to register for the program.

 
*DOT Physical: You will be required to hold a valid DOT medical card before beginning the behind-the-wheel training. If you do not already have a valid DOT medical card, you will schedule an appointment with Trans-Tech to have a physical and drug screen completed. There are certain medications that will disqualify someone from completing the program.

 
*Drug Screen: As part of the DOT physical, you will need to have a drug screen completed. Negative results are required to begin and remain in class.


CLASS INFORMATION

Days

Date

Time

Location

Mon - Thurs

8/17 - 9/14

7:00am - 5:30pm

TransTech Gastonia

50 hours will be online instruction held in the Trans-Tech classroom.  


110 hours will be spent completing the mandatory drive time requirements

Class space is limited, and enrollment is on a first-come, first-served basis.  If you are an employer wishing to register and pay for employees to attend, please email us at [email protected] for more information.

Days

Mon - Thurs

Date

9/14 - 10/15

Time

7:00am - 5:30pm

Location

TransTech Gastonia