What Is It Known For?
Advanced Career Institute grew out of a simple need: finding qualified drivers for a private trucking company. The training program worked so well internally that it expanded to help other companies. By 1986, the first public location opened in Southern California as Advanced School of Driving, Inc.
Success led to growth. A Visalia campus opened in 1993, followed by Fresno in 2000. The school added Merced in 2015, Bakersfield in 2018, and Las Vegas in 2020. Along the way, the name changed to Advanced Career Institute to reflect programs beyond trucking. Today, more than 700 students enroll each year across all campuses.
Degrees & Certifications
At Advanced Career Institute, you’ll earn certificates rather than degrees for the following programs:
- Advanced Welding Technology: (38 weeks)
- Class A CDL training programs
- Professional Truck Driver Program: (4 weeks)
- Advanced Professional Truck Driver Program: (6 weeks)
- Ag Transportation: (20 weeks)
- Commercial Driver: 3-week program
Class Schedules
Classes at Advanced Career Institute run throughout the day. Morning sessions work for early risers. Afternoon options suit different schedules, and evening classes help if you’re working during the day.
Online hazmat training is available for that specific component. The rest of your learning happens in person with hands-on practice since the programs require physical skill development. Externships of clinical experience are not available because the school does not offer any health-related programs.
Is It a Good School?
Yes. The Council on Occupational Education (COE) accredits Advanced Career Institute. California’s Bureau for Private Postsecondary Education licenses the school as well. The institute also has approval to train veterans.
Acceptance Rate
Advanced Career Institute has a 100% acceptance rate. It accepts all students who meet basic enrollment requirements through its open admission policy.
How Much Does Tuition Cost?
Here’s the tuition cost at Advanced Career Institute:
- Commercial Driver – 3 Week Program: $4,745
- Class A CDL training programs: $5,745 – $10,345
- Advanced Welding Technology: $13,680
Financial aid exists for students who qualify, and the school’s representatives will explain your options during the application process.
For personalized cost estimates, access the school’s net price calculator, or contact Advanced Career Institutedirectly for detailed pricing information.
Programs & Courses
Skilled Trades
- CDL
- Welding
Campus Locations
Bakersfield 2925 Mosasco St. Unit B, Bakersfield, CA 93312
Merced 1741 Ashby Rd, Suite B, Merced, CA 95348
Fresno 2953 S. East Ave, Fresno, CA 93725
Visalia 1243 N. Clancy Street Visalia, CA 93291
Las Vegas 4020 E Lone Mountain Rd Suite 100 North Las Vegas, NV 89081
Reviews
Based on local Google reviews, Advanced Career Institute (ACI) is a highly recommended vocational school, particularly for its Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) and Welding programs. Reviewers consistently praise the school for its hands-on training, supportive staff, and knowledgeable instructors who help students achieve their career goals quickly.
Overall Score: 4.4/5 Stars
Common Praises
Expert Instructors & Hands-On Training: Instructors, many with 10+ years of industry experience, are frequently commended for being “excellent at explaining everything in a way that was easy to understand” and providing quality, hands-on training. The welding program, in particular, is called “top notch.”
Supportive and Encouraging Staff: The staff across the office and campus are described as “super friendly,” “attentive,” and dedicated to student success. Several reviewers highlight how the staff “went above and beyond” to help them.
Effective Career Transition: Graduates report quickly passing their licensing tests (like the DMV Class A test) and successfully securing new careers, often noting that they are immediately receiving job offers that can “triple the amount of money” they were previously earning.
Positive Learning Atmosphere: The school is noted for its “very positive surrounding” and a collaborative atmosphere where students and instructors work together, making the learning experience enjoyable and motivating.
Common Criticisms
Instructor Enthusiasm/Consistency: A few older reviews noted that some instructors were “not too enthusiastic about curriculum,” suggesting a slight inconsistency in teaching quality, though this is heavily contradicted by the majority of recent high praise.
Internal Conflicts: One unverified complaint mentioned an instructor was allegedly “starting stuff with every student” and faced no consequences, indicating a potential, isolated issue with internal HR or professionalism that the school may need to address.
Program Length/Pace (Minor): One reviewer who ultimately got their license mentioned the 20-week program was only “decent I suppose,” suggesting the pace or structure might not be ideal for every learning style, even if the end goal is achieved.
Momentum
The momentum for Advanced Career Institute is strong and focused on vocational workforce development in key sectors. ACI operates multiple campuses and is institutionally accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC), a recognition that confirms its training meets established standards for quality and student outcomes. The high volume of recent, overwhelmingly positive reviews for both the truck driving (CDL) and welding programs—which represent distinct skill sets—demonstrates the school’s ability to successfully deliver multiple, high-demand training tracks. Graduates are successfully obtaining their licenses and moving into higher-paying careers, which is the school’s core promise.