About 160 Driving Academy of Portland
160 Driving Academy of Portland is a truck driving school in the Portland Metro Area. The academy focuses on providing a comprehensive training program to help students obtain their Commercial Driver's License (CDL). The school emphasizes hands-on training, giving students the chance to practice pre-trip inspections, backing maneuvers, and driving skills. Instructors are described as patient, knowledgeable, and supportive, creating a friendly and welcoming environment. Students are encouraged to ask for help and practice regularly to master the skills needed for success. The curriculum covers both manual and automatic trucks, reflecting the industry’s move toward automation. Students learn how to shift smoothly and perform basic maneuvers effectively. The instructors also guide students on how to prepare for and pass the state's CDL test, emphasizing dedication and effort. The environment is described as family-oriented, with a focus on making students feel safe, supported, and motivated. Many students share that their experience was rewarding, filled with learning, laughter, and personal growth. The school’s supportive atmosphere helps students build confidence and embrace the journey toward becoming professional truck drivers.
I came into 160 Driving Academy in Moline, IL skeptical and guarded because of things I had heard, but Tesla, the Branch Manager, completely shifted that experience. From the moment we spoke, she was sharp, professional, organized, and clearly about her business. She listened to every concern, broke everything down with confidence, and didn’t dismiss how important earning my CDL is to me. She even went out of her way to try and see if there was a spot open for an earlier start date — that speaks volumes about her leadership and work ethic. Tesla leads with integrity and intention, and because of her, I feel confident and solid in my decision. If you’re serious about getting your CDL, this is the location you want — and Tesla is exactly who you want leading it.
These people go out of their way to make sure you have what you need to succeed. I highly recommend 160!
Highly recommend! Starting a career change can feel overwhelming, but these three men in the Billings location made the entire process so much easier for me. When I didn’t have the funds to get started, Ed immediately stepped in with resources and information I didn’t even know my local Job Service offered. His support alone removed a huge barrier. From day one, David (instructor) showed us that he was committed to making sure we were truly prepared. On the first day of class, he asked a student to start with a full pre-trip inspection, and in that moment I knew he cared about readiness and real-world expectations. David took extra steps to prepare us—he went above and beyond when it came to teaching skills, shifting, and getting us ready for the road test. His patience and dedication made learning to drive a truck feel manageable and even exciting. Randy (instructor)challenged us in the best way possible. You never knew when he would have you hop into the truck and perform the entire pre-trip from start to finish. Both he and David took the time to teach us everything we needed to know: working on skills, practicing shifting, understanding the truck, and preparing for the road test. Their consistent push to stay ready kept us sharp and confident. TRUCKER 101 that Randy took extra time to teach was helpful. Because of them, I felt completely ready. They believed in me, and I trusted that if they said I was doing well, it was true—because they never hesitated to tell you honestly when something needed work. Their confidence, high standards, and genuine support made all the difference. I couldn’t have asked for a better team to guide me through this new chapter.