What Is It Known For?
160 Driving Academy was founded in 2012 by Steve Gold and is owned and operated by Rock Gate Capital, LLC. Since opening, it has grown into the largest commercial truck driving school network in the United States. With over 150 locations across 44 states, 160 Driving Academy is recognized for producing skilled, safety-conscious drivers who meet industry demand.
The school works closely with major trucking companies and government agencies, training more than 35,000 students in 2024 alone. Its programs focus on giving every student the tools to pass the CDL exam and launch a stable, well-paying career in commercial transportation.
Degrees & Certifications
160 Driving Academy specializes in commercial driver education rather than traditional degree programs. Most students complete their training in about four weeks, depending on scheduling and location. You can choose from several career-focused options, including:
- Class A CDL Training Course
- CDL Refresher Courses
- Entry-Level Driver Theory Training (ELDT)
Class Schedules
Training at 160 Driving Academy combines classroom learning and hands-on driving experience. Students begin with roughly 40 hours of classroom instruction to prepare for the written exam, followed by 120 hours of behind-the-wheel training on local and interstate roads.
Many locations also offer evening and weekend classes for working adults. Unfortunately, all instruction is done in person, with no online or externship components.
Is It a Good School?
Yes. While 160 Driving Academy is not institutionally accredited, each location is state-licensed and meets all standards set by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) under the Entry-Level Driver Training Program.
Acceptance Rate
The academy does not publish an official acceptance rate but maintains open enrollment for qualified applicants.
How Much Does Tuition Cost?
Tuition typically ranges from $4,000 to $6,000 for the complete 160-hour CDL course, varying slightly by location and program type.
Since there is no net price calculator, students are encouraged to contact their nearest 160 Driving Academy location for current tuition, financing options, and employer sponsorships.
Programs & Courses
Skilled Trades
- CDL
Campus Locations
Tacoma 2310 Mildred St.West, Suite #124 Tacoma, WA 98466
Lakewood 4500 Steilacoom Blvd SW. Building 14 Lakewood, WA 98499
Renton 1000 SW 7th Street Suite G Renton, WA 98057
Clackamas 16140 SE 82nd Dr Clackamas, OR 97015
Eugene 30 E 17th Eugene, OR 97401
Medford 3050 Samike Drive Medford, OR 97501
Reviews
Based on local Google reviews, 160 Driving Academy of Portland is overwhelmingly praised for its dedicated, highly experienced, and patient instructors who help students pass their CDL tests. However, the school has faced significant historical issues related to communication, student-to-truck ratio, and administrative transparency.
Overall Score: 4.3/5 Stars
Common Praises
Exceptional and Highly-Praised Instructors: The instructors are the overwhelming strength of this location, with several of the key training staff (referred to frequently by students) mentioned repeatedly as “amazing,” “very knowledgeable,” and “very patient.” Reviewers credit them with making students feel confident, lowering anxiety, and providing all the necessary tools and information to “pass on your first time.”
Commitment to Student Success: Students feel the instructional staff genuinely “care deeply about you and they want to see you succeed.” The teaching style is noted for being informative, clear, and focused on giving students the practical knowledge and techniques needed for the CDL test.
Effective Classroom and Pre-Trip Training: The initial Zoom class is described as “great” and “very informative,” and the overall program is credited for providing “ample time to get prepared for our pre trip inspection, backing skills, and road exam.”
Common Criticisms
Administrative and Operational Shortcomings: Several long-term issues point to poor organization and student logistics. Complaints include the program being “over booked with too many students,” leading to a lack of driving time, a 4-week program getting “pushed out to 5 weeks without warning,” and general communication failures (not being “responsive at all”).
Staff Professionalism and Discriminatory Behavior (Historical): One highly upvoted, but older, review directly accuses the former owner/management of being “super unprofessional and may I add racist,” and showing “No desire to help someone who’s second language is English.” While the school’s response defended its actions, this indicates a serious, past issue regarding how non-native English speakers were handled.
Financial and Refund Issues: At least one review complained about waiting for a reimbursement for permit and license costs, despite paying for them upfront, and struggling to get a response from the office.
Momentum
The recent reviews (from the last two months) show a clear momentum shift towards the positive. The newest feedback highlights the outstanding quality of current instruction, specifically shouting out instructors for being “good instructors” who “take it serious” and are “very enthusiastic on getting everyone to pass at a 100%.” This recent, strong positive flow suggests that despite the historical administrative issues, the current instructional team is highly effective, dedicated, and successfully training students.