Frequently Asked Questions

We offer CDL Class A & B Trucking, Heavy Equipment Operator (NCCER), HVAC Technician, Commercial Electrician, Culinary Arts, Mobile & Tower Crane (NCCCO), and Welding Technology. See our programs page for full details.

Program length varies. CDL is 200 clock hours — 80 in the classroom and 120 in the yard and behind the wheel — which most students complete in about 5 weeks. Heavy Equipment Operator runs about 5 weeks and Crane Operator about 4. Culinary Arts, HVAC, Welding and Construction Fundamentals run about 8 weeks, and Electrician Prep about 10. Every program is built to be far faster than a community college timeline.

No prior trade experience is necessary — we train you from zero. For CDL, you'll need to be at least 18, hold a valid driver's license from the state where you live, and be able to speak, read and understand English — federal law requires it of every commercial driver, so we require it to enroll. You'll also need one of five education options: a high school diploma (including a foreign diploma equivalent to a U.S. one), a GED or equivalent, home schooling completed at the secondary level, 12 academic semester hours at an accredited college, or a qualifying score on the Wonderlic Basic Skills Test. That last option is called "ability to benefit," and it means you can enroll without a diploma. You'll also need a DOT medical card — your DOT physical is included in your tuition. Requirements for other programs vary, so check the program page or ask an advisor.

Yes. MVVI admits students through "ability to benefit" — you take the Wonderlic Basic Skills Test and a score of 200 verbal and 210 quantitative qualifies you for admission. No diploma or GED needed. We give the test at our campus at no cost to you. You'll be in the same class, earn the same certificate, and get the same job placement support as every other student. Talk to an advisor and we'll help you schedule the test.

Graduates earn the credential for their field: CDL license from the state, NCCER Core + specialty card, NCCCO crane operator certification, EPA 608 (HVAC), and more. These are nationally recognized, not just MVVI diplomas.

Program availability differs by campus. CDL, Heavy Equipment Operator, Crane Operator, and Culinary Arts are offered at both El Paso, TX and Alamogordo, NM. HVAC Technician, Electrician Prep, Welding Technology, and Construction Fundamentals are offered at our Alamogordo, NM campus. Each program page shows where that program is currently enrolling — call us to confirm upcoming start dates.

MVVI uses rolling admissions — we don't wait for semester start dates. Once you're enrolled and funded, you can start with the next cohort, which is often within a few weeks.

Yes. El Paso offers evening and night class options for most programs. Classes are designed so working adults can complete training without quitting their current job.

You can apply online at our enrollment page, or call your nearest campus to apply over the phone. An advisor will walk you through the process.

Some programs fill quickly, especially CDL in El Paso. Apply early to secure your seat. We'll let you know your expected start date at enrollment.

Prices start at $4,600 for CDL. Crane Operator is our highest at $8,000. Many students pay significantly less after grants, VA benefits, or employer reimbursement.

We work with VA/GI Bill® benefits, workforce development grants, employer tuition reimbursement programs, and flexible payment plans. Visit our Tuition & Aid page to explore all options.

Many veterans may have 100% of tuition covered through the GI Bill® or VRRAP. Eligibility and benefit amounts are determined by the VA — our veterans advisor can help you confirm your benefits and navigate the process.

Yes. We offer structured payment plans that let you begin training while paying over time. Contact us for current plan options.

Yes. We have a dedicated job placement team and relationships with 200+ employer partners across transportation, construction, utilities, and hospitality sectors.

It depends on the program. CDL grads typically start at $55–70K. Crane operators often earn $90–120K. Our placement team provides current salary data for your local market.

We provide retake support and additional practice time to help you pass. Our goal is your credential.