Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Truck Driver Training & CDL Testing Services
Professional Drivers Academy has been training professional truck drivers since 1975, operating as a licensed Private Trade School under the Pennsylvania Department of Education, State Board of Licensed Schools. Our mission is to equip graduates with the essential skills, education, and hands-on experience required for employment as entry-level tractor/trailer drivers in the trucking industry. The 185-hour Tractor/Trailer Driving Course combines classroom instruction, lot training, and on-the-road experience to meet industry demands. Students receive personalized attention through small class sizes, audio-visual aids, and practical exercises, preparing them to pass all aspects of the CDL knowledge and road tests.Our experienced instructors, many with over two decades of teaching experience, emphasize safety, defensive driving, and real-world applications. Graduates earn a diploma and are referred to trucking companies without regard to race, color, sex, or national origin. The academy also offers third-party CDL testing, ELDT-compliant online courses, and flexible private lessons for refresher training or exam preparation. Partnerships with ELDT ensure compliance with federal regulations, while on-site testing eliminates the need for off-site travel. Funding options include tuition reimbursement, loans, and grants through partnerships with Pennsylvania agencies, supporting students in launching their trucking careers.
Services
CDL Training
Third-Party Testing
ELDT Courses
Refresher Training
Private Lessons
Fleet Training
Details
- Year established: 1975
Highlights and features
- We offer 50+ years of experience in professional truck driver training.
- Our FMCSA-approved ELDT courses ensure compliance with federal regulations.
- Experienced instructors with decades of industry expertise guide your training.
- On-site CDL third-party testing eliminates travel to distant facilities.
- Flexible payment options include tuition reimbursement, loans, and grants.
Associations and certifications
- Pennsylvania Department of Education, State Board of Licensed Schools
Services
CDL Training
Our 185-hour CDL program prepares students for entry-level truck driving careers through classroom instruction, lot training, and on-road experience. The curriculum covers DOT regulations, defensive driving, and vehicle operation. Graduates receive a diploma and are referred to trucking companies for employment opportunities.
Third-Party Testing
We offer FMCSA-certified third-party CDL testing for Class A and B licenses on-site. Testing includes knowledge and road exams, eliminating the need for off-site travel. Local trucking companies and schools can also utilize our testing services for driver certification.
ELDT Courses
FMCSA-approved ELDT courses provide theory training for Class A/B CDLs and HazMat endorsements. These online programs meet federal requirements for entry-level drivers and complement our hands-on training programs for comprehensive skill development.
Refresher Training
Customizable refresher sessions help experienced drivers improve specific skills or prepare for CDL exams. Options include 1-hour evaluations, 4-hour sessions, and on-site training tailored to individual needs and industry standards.
Private Lessons
Flexible private lessons focus on defensive driving, road test preparation, and vehicle familiarization. Instructors work one-on-one with students to address specific challenges and build confidence in real-world driving scenarios.
People
Shawn Reis
Owner
Shawn purchased PDA in 2019, continuing its legacy of training CDL drivers since 1975. He focuses on maintaining high educational standards and industry partnerships to support student success.
James Boswell
Lead Instructor
With over a decade of experience, James provides expert instruction in driving techniques and safety protocols. His patient approach helps students master complex maneuvers and regulatory requirements.
Shanon Mase
Third Party Tester/Instructor
A PDA graduate, Shanon brings diverse CDL industry experience. She specializes in road testing and coaching students to build confidence and proficiency in commercial driving.
Jodi Bremigen
Office Manager
Jodi manages administrative operations, ensuring smooth coordination of training schedules, student support, and partnerships with recruiters and funding agencies.
Questions
What CDL training programs do you offer?
We offer a 185-hour Tractor/Trailer Driving Course, ELDT-compliant online courses, and refresher training for CDL holders.
Can I take my CDL test at your facility?
Yes, we are a certified third-party testing center for Class A and B CDL exams.
Are financing options available for training?
Yes, we offer tuition reimbursement partnerships, loans, and grant assistance through Pennsylvania agencies.
What are the course schedules?
Classes run five weeks, Monday-Friday, 7:00 AM-3:30 PM, with start dates from January to November.
Do you provide job placement assistance?
We refer graduates to trucking companies and partner recruiters who visit during training sessions.
What are the requirements to enroll?
Students must be 18+, pass a medical exam, drug test, and demonstrate English proficiency.