I used a 5 ton flat bed with six speed manual and air brakes coupled with a 12k flat bed trailer for my commercial class A. I paid $400 to an instructor who provided the equipment and 4 hours of training for the road test and walk around. I trained on big rigs independently and passed everything the first time. It was challenging but lots cheaper than a full blown truck driving school which is about $5K.
It is my understanding that DMV will require 40 hours of accredited training from a certified instructor this next year or so for a commercial license.
