INITIAL OPERATOR TRAINING�Phase I, Unit A: Course Introduction, Organization, and Materials Review

36th Combat Aviation Brigade

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�References: AR 600–55; 36th CAB Drivers Training SOP, 17 April 2025

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Instructor: MSG Bennett

Lesson Outcome

At the conclusion of Unit A, students will be able to:

• Describe the purpose of the 36th CAB driver training program.
• Identify the three phases of operator training and qualification.
• Explain the Unit A–M Phase I course sequence.
• Identify student, instructor, examiner, and commander responsibilities.
• Understand course standards, safety expectations, and required training materials.

Purpose of the Driver Training Program��

• Establish a standardized program to select, train, test, and license operators.
• Support mission requirements through safe operation of tactical, non-tactical, power-generation, and commercial off-the-shelf equipment requiring an operator license.
• Ensure trained operators are assigned to equipment requiring a license.
• Reinforce that operator training is an ongoing leader responsibility—not a one-time event.

Key Message:�Safe, disciplined, and technically proficient operators protect personnel, equipment, and the mission.

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Reference: 36th CAB Drivers Training SOP, paras. 1-1 through 1-3

Progression Standard

1. Complete Phase I academic instruction.
2. Complete Phase II training for the specific vehicle or equipment model.
3. Successfully complete Phase III validation and road testing.
4. Receive an operator permit only after all required training and testing are complete.

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Reference: 36th CAB Drivers Training SOP, paras. 4-6 through 4-9.

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The Three-Phase Training Process

Operator Qualification Process

Phase I Course Roadmap�

Phase II Course Roadmap�

Phase III Course Roadmap�

Roles and Responsibilities�

Who Makes the Program Work?

Commanders

• Ensure operators are properly selected, trained, tested, and licensed.
• Allocate sufficient training time and resources.
• Ensure risk management is completed before training execution.

Master Driver

• Monitors training, testing, and licensing.
• Coordinates resources and assists with Phase I execution.
• Provides quality assurance for the program.

License Instructor

• Conducts Phase II classroom and hands-on equipment training.
• Must be appointed and licensed on the equipment used for training.

License Examiner

• Administers Phase I and Phase II written examinations and Phase III road tests.

Student Operator

• Actively participates, follows safety standards, maintains required documentation, and demonstrates proficiency to standard.

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Reference: 36th CAB Drivers Training SOP, Chapter 2

Student Expectations and Course Standards�

Student Expectations

• Be present, prepared, and actively engaged for all scheduled training.
• Bring required materials:
• Writing materials
• Valid civilian driver’s license
• Ask questions when requirements or standards are unclear.
• Follow instructor guidance, safety controls, and classroom procedures.
• Complete academic and practical training to standard before advancing.
• Maintain professionalism and accountability throughout training.

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Safety Is the Foundation

Safety Is Everyone’s Responsibility

• Operating motorized equipment is inherently dangerous, particularly when operators are inexperienced.
• Commanders, safety personnel, qualifying officials, instructors, supervisors, and operators share responsibility for accident prevention.
• Risk assessments and mitigation measures must be completed before training execution.
• Unsafe behavior, accidents, traffic violations, or observed performance deficiencies may require remedial training.
• Remedial training is intended to correct weaknesses—not punish Soldiers.

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Key Message:�No mission requirement justifies bypassing training standards or safety controls.

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Reference: 36th CAB Drivers Training SOP, para. 1-4 and Chapter 7.

Evaluation and Progression�

How Students Progress

• Phase I concludes with the Phase I written examination.
• Students must successfully complete required Phase I instruction before moving to Phase II.
• Phase II includes vehicle- or equipment-model-specific academic and hands-on training.
• Students must complete all required training tasks before Phase III validation and road testing.
• The license examiner administers required examinations and performance tests.

Phase II Preview

• Equipment introduction
• Vehicle/equipment written examination
• Familiarization training
• Usual and unusual driving conditions
• Emergency procedures
• Self-recovery and special capabilities, as applicable

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Reference: 36th CAB Drivers Training SOP, paras. 4-7 through 4-9.

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Unit A Check on Learning / Transition�

Check on Learning

1. What is the purpose of the 36th CAB driver training program?
2. What are the three phases of operator qualification?
3. What is the purpose of Phase I?
4. Who administers the Phase I written examination?
5. What must occur before a student progresses to Phase III?
6. Why is safety a shared responsibility during operator training?

Next Lesson:�Unit B — State, Local, and Post Traffic Regulations and Laws

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