CDL Instructor

Royal Coach Tours; San Jose (CA); On-site; USD 65,000 - 95,000; Full time

Job summary

Royal Coach Tours in San Jose, CA is seeking a CDL Instructor to train and evaluate new and existing drivers. The role combines classroom instruction with behind-the-wheel training to ensure safe, compliant operation of our commercial vehicles in line with FMCSA and DOT standards.

You will coach, document performance, and assist trainees in CDL exam preparation, while promoting a culture of safety and professionalism across the fleet.

Qualifications

• CDL with Class B and Passenger and Air Brake endorsements.
• 1 point or less on DMV record.
• 3–5 years of commercial driving experience.
• Prior training or instructional experience preferred.

Responsibilities

• Conduct classroom and hands-on training for CDL applicants and company drivers
• Instruct students on safe vehicle operation, defensive driving techniques, and DOT regulations
• Provide behind-the-wheel training for various commercial vehicles (e.g., Class B with Air Brakes)
• Evaluate driver performance and provide constructive feedback
• Ensure compliance with FMCSA and DOT standards
• Train drivers on Hours of Service (HOS), electronic logging devices (ELDs), and safety procedures
• Maintain accurate training records, evaluations, and certifications
• Assist trainees in preparing for CDL exams (written and road tests)
• Conduct refresher and remedial training for current drivers
• Routing verification
• Promote a culture of safety and professionalism

Skills

Instructional coaching

Communication skills

DOT regulations knowledge

Safety training

Leadership

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Job description

Royal Coach Tours is an award winning, family owned transit company with over 60 years in the transportation business! Winners of multiple safety and maintenance awards, Royal Coach Tours was also recently voted as the Operator of the Year by the International Motorcoach Group (IMG). We are looking for a CDL Instructor.

Job Summary

The CDL Instructor is responsible for instructing, coaching, and evaluating new and existing commercial drivers to ensure safe, compliant, and efficient driving practices. This role focuses on classroom instruction, behind-the-wheel training, and ongoing performance development in accordance with federal, state, and company regulations. This is a full-time position that works on site in our San Jose, CA office.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct classroom and hands-on training for CDL applicants and company drivers
• Instruct students on safe vehicle operation, defensive driving techniques, and DOT regulations
• Provide behind-the-wheel training for various commercial vehicles (e.g., Class B with Air Brakes)
• Evaluate driver performance and provide constructive feedback
• Ensure compliance with Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and DOT standards
• Train drivers on Hours of Service (HOS), electronic logging devices (ELDs), and safety procedures
• Maintain accurate training records, evaluations, and certifications
• Assist trainees in preparing for CDL exams (written and road tests)
• Conduct refresher and remedial training for current drivers

• Routing verification

• Promote a culture of safety and professionalism

Qualifications

• Valid CDL (Class B with Passenger and Air Brake endorsements) with 1 point or less on DMV record
• Minimum 3–5 years of commercial driving experience
• Prior training or instructional experience preferred
• Strong knowledge of DOT regulations and safety standards
• Ability to effectively communicate and coach individuals with varying skill levels
• Patience, leadership, and strong interpersonal skills
• High school diploma or equivalent

Skills & Competencies

• Instructional and coaching ability in English
• Knowledge of motorcoach operations and safety compliance
• Strong observation and evaluation skills
• Communication and interpersonal skills
• Problem-solving and adaptability
• Proficiency with computer programs

Work Environment

• Combination of classroom, trainingin theyard, and on-road instruction
• May require travel and flexible scheduling (including weekends)
• Exposure to outdoor conditions and commercial driving environments

Certifications (Preferred/Optional)

• Certified Driver Instructor credentials (if applicable)
• SPAB Certification strongly preferred
• OSHA safety training (optional)
• First Aid/CPR certification (preferred)

Physical Requirements

• Ability to sit for extended periods while driving buses or instructing others who are driving buses
• Capability to enter/exit commercial vehicles safely
• Works in the bus yard and in buses 25% of the time (or more)
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs (equipment or training materials)

We offer,

A friendly, competitive and positive work environment

Paid Vacation, Holiday Pay, Birthday Pay, Medical/ Dental/ Vision, Life Insurance, 401(k)