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29 Years
experience
Truck Driving Training in Malden, MO
Since 1997, Southern Missouri Truck Driving School has been dedicated to training professional truck drivers through comprehensive classroom instruction and hands-on experience. Our curriculum, developed in alignment with Department of Transportation regulations, prepares students for careers in the transportation industry with a focus on safety, compliance, and technical proficiency. Our experienced instructors, each with extensive industry backgrounds, maintain a low student-to-instructor ratio to ensure personalized attention during both classroom studies and practical driving sessions. We offer a four-week program covering tractor trailer operation, vehicle maintenance, and over-the-road training, complemented by job placement assistance and partnerships with financial aid programs that help 80% of students receive training at little or no cost.

Our facility in Malden, Missouri, features dedicated range areas and modern equipment to simulate real-world driving conditions. Graduates receive certification and support in obtaining their Class A CDL, with a proven track record of placing drivers in the trucking industry. We maintain strict standards for student conduct and academic performance to ensure graduates meet the demands of professional driving. Our admissions team provides guidance on eligibility requirements, including age, driving record, and physical qualifications. For experienced drivers, we offer an accelerated 10-day course to enhance existing skills. The school's commitment to quality education is reflected in its structured curriculum, daily evaluations, and partnerships with local employers.
Services
Truck Driving Training CDL Certification Job Placement Assistance Financial Aid Programs Hazardous Materials Endorsement Accelerated Driver Courses Vehicle Maintenance Training Over-the-Road Instruction English Language Proficiency DOT Physical Exams
Details
  • Year established: 1997
Highlights and features
  • We offer a 4-week intensive program with 180 hours of combined classroom and driving instruction.
  • Our instructors maintain a 2:1 student-to-instructor ratio during hands-on training.
  • 80% of students receive financial assistance through partnerships with state programs.
  • Graduates receive job placement support and CDL certification assistance.
  • We provide free living accommodations for out-of-town students during training.
Services
Truck Driving Training
Our four-week truck driving program combines 45 hours of classroom instruction with 135 hours of hands-on training. Students learn vehicle operation, maintenance, and over-the-road driving through a structured curriculum meeting federal regulations. Graduates receive certification and CDL test preparation.
Hazardous Materials Endorsement
This specialized course prepares drivers for hazardous materials transport compliance. The program includes online training modules, background checks, and 12 assessments to meet DOT requirements. Completion qualifies drivers for HazMat endorsement on their CDL.
Job Placement Assistance
We connect graduates with trucking companies through our industry partnerships. Our placement services include resume preparation, interview coaching, and direct referrals to employers seeking qualified drivers in Missouri and surrounding states.
Financial Aid Programs
We partner with state and local organizations to provide funding options that cover up to 100% of tuition costs for eligible students. Available programs include vocational rehabilitation, workforce development, and second-chance initiatives for career changers.
Accelerated Driver Courses
Experienced drivers with two+ years of verifiable experience qualify for our 10-day intensive course. This program focuses on advanced skills refinement and regulatory compliance through condensed classroom sessions and practical driving assessments.
Questions
What are the admission requirements for SMTDS?
Applicants must be 18+, have a valid driver's license, clean driving record, and pass DOT physical/drug screening. English proficiency and CDL permit eligibility are required.
How long does the truck driving program take?
Our standard program lasts four weeks with 180 hours of combined classroom and driving instruction. Experienced drivers qualify for a 10-day accelerated course.
Does SMTDS offer financial assistance?
Yes, 80% of students receive tuition support through partnerships with Missouri Career Center, vocational rehab, and workforce development programs.
What kind of job support do graduates receive?
We provide CDL test preparation, resume building, and direct referrals to trucking companies through our industry partnerships across Missouri.
Are there housing options for out-of-town students?
Yes, we offer free semi-private accommodations with basic amenities for students traveling to Malden for training programs.
What happens if I need to cancel my enrollment?
Students can cancel within 3 business days for a full refund. After classes start, refunds are prorated at $375/day up to 10 days. No refunds after two weeks.
Reviews (7)
Geoffrey Stewart
Dec 15, 2021 Report
Critical: Professionalism Very very very unprofessional, luckily I'm smart enough to get my CDL on my own, don't waste your time find another school
Jonathan M.
Jun 29, 2021 Report
Very Good School. Abby, Tori, TJ, Tina and Joey will bend over to help you. Will treat you like Family. Highly recommended (S.M.T.D.S)
Joe Berry
Feb 11, 2021 Report
Super super awesome! Very knowledgeable and provided outstanding cdl training, which allowed me to pass my skills test on my first attempt. Highly highly recommend.
Derek Good
Oct 11, 2020 Report
Every good place nice down to earth people great instructor's everyone is there to help you step by step
Paul Jones
Apr 25, 2020 Report
Bunk house is full of bedbugs and the "instructors" look like meth heads and just talk to each other not offering help when they seeing you stuggle. Bathrooms in the classroom and bunk house stunk and never cleaned. Trucks were trash and always breaking down.
Larry Gunnell
Jan 05, 2020 Report
T.J was a great instructor and treated you like family. Old man Chester is a legend. It's a great school. Can't say anything bad about them
Ron DeProw
Mar 03, 2018 Report
I would like to thank Southern Missouri Truck Driving School (SMTDS) for all of their efforts and assistance in helping me gain the knowledge to obtain my CDL.I highly recommend this school to anyone looking for a positive carreer change. The staff was knowledgeable and very forthcoming in their assistance to me, and my classmates. 1st Class Graduated of 2018