Earn a Pre-CDL Certificate
UAF T3 Alaska has partnered with the Alaska Department of Transportation and Public Facilities (DOT&PF) and certified training centers to build a direct workforce pipeline: the Pre-CDL Certificate program.
By embedding this program into local high schools, we can help students navigate the licensing process and provide a pathway for in -demand career in equipment operations.
A pre-CDL Certificate qualifies students to apply for tuition assistance for a CDL Class A training and testing, along with valuable connections to regional DOT&PF hiring agents.
The Solution: A High School Gateway to High-Paying Careers
The Pre-CDL Certificate is designed to be completed in high school under the guidance of a T3 club or mentor. By breaking the career pathway down into four badges, the program provides a structured, step-by-step roadmap:
- Navigating the Basics: Step-by-step support to help students successfully secure their regular driver’s license.
- Career Exposure: An interactive introduction to high-demand, high-paying local careers in equipment operations and diesel mechanics.
- Skill Verification: Transferable badges that prove operational readiness to training institutions and future employers.
- Funding Qualification: Earning the high school Pre-CDL certificate qualifies students to apply for 100% CDL Class A financial assistance once they turn 18 and graduate.
How Schools and Educators Can Get Involved
This program is currently active and certifying students at the following institutions:
- Kusilvak Career Academy
- Alaska Job Corp
Bring the Pre-CDL Program to Your School:
If your school or community academy is not yet a certified Pre-CDL provider and you offer driver’s training, you maybe able to offer this pathway to your students.
To learn more about becoming a certified provider, contact the program team at UAF-T3ALLIANCE@ALASKA.EDU.


