Sep 20, 2026  
2026-2027 College Catalog 
    
Catalog Navigation
  Catalog Home
  Message from the Chancellor
  Mission and Vision
  Divisions and Departments
  Degree & Certificate Programs
  Other Programs
  Course Descriptions
  General Education Courses
  Academic Information
  Faculty
  Historical Catalogs
  Catalog Addendum
HELP
2026-2027 College Catalog

TDT 117 - Basic Driving Maneuvers – Class B Commercial Driver’s License

3.5 Contact Hours, 3 Credits
2.5 lecture periods 1 lab period


Demonstration and skill development of basic maneuvers for operating a Class B straight truck or bus commercial vehicle. Perform pre-trip inspection, backing, basic control of left and right turns, progressive shifting, space and speed management, visual search and communication, defensive driving, and hazard perception. Successful completion of this class should prepare trainee for Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) skill examination.

Information: Admission to the Truck Driver Training Program is required prior to registration. TDT 116 , or a valid Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) permit, and federally required Entry Level Driver Training (ELDT) theory training completion with an approved provider is required. Contact the Center for Transportation and Logistics for more information. 
Button linking to AZ Transfer course equivalency guide  

Course Learning Outcomes
  1. Perform pre-trip inspection and make a determination as to the condition of various critical vehicle components including: instruments and controls, engine, drive train, chassis and suspension, steering system, braking system, tires, wheels and rims, lighting and signaling system, braking system, emergency equipment, cargo securement devices, and seating.
  2. Execute backing a class B commercial vehicle to include parking in restricted areas with appropriate tolerances, backing in straight lines, and offset and parallel parking.
  3. Demonstrate class B commercial vehicle with proficiency. 
  4. Demonstrate selecting appropriate lane based on mobility, traffice, roadway and weather conditions. 
  5. Execute visual search techniques and communicate plans to maneuver a Class B commercial vehicle in difficult areas.
  6. Describe road conditions and other road users that are a potential threat to safety of the class B commercial vehicle and suggest appropriate adjustments.
  7. Describe how to make adjustments for driving in hot or cold weather, stormy conditions, and mountain and desert driving.
  8. Describe road conditions and other road users that are a potential threat to the safety of the coach/transit bus and suggest appropriate adjustments.
Outline:
  1. Pre-Trip Inspection
    1. Manual and visual
    2. Reporting malfunctions
  2. Maneuvers
    1. Straight line backing
    2. Offset parking
    3. Parallel parking
  3. Proficiency Development and Basic Control
    1. Left turns
    2. Right turns
    3. Centering the vehicle
    4. Maneuvering in restricted areas
  4. Progressive Shifting
    1. Proper gear start
    2. Revolutions per minute (RPM) and range control
    3. Up shift progressive
    4. Down shift
    5. Double clutch
    6. Smooth braking
  5. Space and Speed Management
    1. Road condition and speed configuration
    2. Operation conditions
    3. Lane control and change
    4. Merge and exit freeway
    5. Use of signals and horn
    6. Correct following distances
    7. Stopping distances
  6. Visual Search and Communication
    1. Road vision
    2. Vehicle communications and safety
  7. Extreme Driving
    1. Defensive driving adjustments
    2. Environment conditions
    3. Safe operating adjustments
  8. Hazard Perception
    1. Identify potential threats
    2. Aversion techniques