This past month has been the busiest of the year! This past month we are receiving phone calls from employers seeking CDL drivers all over the state. This includes long hauling, tourism related drivers, delivery drivers and more. Our CDL students gradating in the coming months will have lots of opportunities for CDL jobs.
Graduate Report: In April we had 12 students complete their CDL Training programs and pass their road skills exams. Many of these students are returning to their jobs and earning a pay increase in Alaska. Students who are new to the industry can access our job portal as well as our office staff actively working with local companies seeking drivers.
CDL Training: Our Alaska CDL programs are one to one training every day. Our drivers are driving 600-1000 miles per course, therefore, You’ll get more seat time with KPDI!
Our Beginner CDL Training exceeds ELDT (Entry Level Driver Training) federal requirements. In leu of classroom instruction, our trainings are COVID-19 friendly with a CD-ROM based training to completed your classroom instruction. Currently, we are scheduling CDL Trainings for July 2021. Guest housing is also available with private rooms.
For the 2021-22 year, our 40 hour program price increases to $5000. This program will also allow for optional distance learning ($100 materials fee applies). This is anticipation of the ELDT requirements which will go into effect in February 2022. The ELDT requirements focus on classroom instruction hours which we utilize distance learning tools to satisfy.
We’re hiring! KPDI is currently hiring full time and part time CDL instructors! $30 per hour with training provided and paid holidays! In addition we are seeking a KDPI office team member. Office positions are part time and start at $15 per hour with training and advancement opportunities. Office team members are organized, fast paced and energetic! Email to apply: [email protected]
Grant Funding: The 2020-21 DOL STEP grant program is coming to a close with June being the last month of the state fiscal year. All grant funding has been allocated for this year at KPDI, however you can apply to be on the waiting list. We always encourage prospective students to contact DOL Career Support & Training Services (CSTS) for even more possible grant funding options.
New Driver Training: Our next new driver course begins on May 8th. This class is has one space available. The next class is June th. IDEA & Connections Funding accepted.
Knowledge Exams: One of several FMCSA exemptions allows KPDI to proctor knowledge exams for CDL and Non-CDL drivers. This exemption is scheduled to end on May 31st. This means you can take your knowledge exams with us without a special trip to the DMV. However, we do require an appointment for knowledge exams. There is no cost to students who are enrolled in a program with us. If you are not enrolled in a program, the cost is $10 per exam.
Fingerprinting Appointments: Set up an online appointment here or call 855-347-8371
Appointments and Masks are required for all fingerprinting appointments.
IdentoGo appointments for fingerprinting for TSA Pre-Check, HazMat Endorsement & TWIC cards are scheduled on the following days this month:
Tuesday, May 4, 2021
Thursday, May 6, 2021
Tuesday, May 11, 2021
Thursday, May 13, 2021
Tuesday, May 18, 2021 – CLOSED
Thursday, May 20, 2021
Tuesday, May 25, 2021
Thursday, May 27, 2021
TWIC Cards typically arrive within 30 days after enrollments. If you have a TWIC card required for your employment be sure to plan ahead and check your expiration date on your existing TWIC card. You can renew your TWIC card up to six months before the expiration date! TWIC cards ship direcly to you if approved.
For TSA Pre-Check and HazMat endorsements, letters will no longer be mailed out. You must check the status of your enrollment online.
Administration and student support staff have limited office hours. CDL Training packets are available in the lobby of our office in Kenai.