DETROIT – Despite what the CEO of the Detroit Training Center says, students still aren’t able to take their skills tests to become truck drivers, according to the Michigan Department of State.
Students signed up for a $6,000, seven-week training class to become truck drivers and improve their lives. But when test dates kept getting pushed back, a student reached out to the Local 4 Investigators for help getting answers.
We checked with the state and learned that the Detroit Training Center was under investigation for “compliance issues” and that they’d found “multiple violations.”
---> Original report: Futures put on hold amid investigation into Detroit Training Center
The day after our story aired, Detroit Training Center CEO Patrick Beal emailed us. Here’s what he said:
“The Detroit Training Center underwent a curriculum review with the State of Michigan and the ability to submit students for testing was restricted while this was underway. The curriculum review was completed positively with the State on 4/29/2026 and DTC is now again authorized to submit qualified students for testing. The process took longer than anticipated, however test dates are now being scheduled for all ready to test. Students have had the opportunity to continue to train throughout this time period and and we look forward to the great success of these students as they exit the program and hopefully start with their new employment.”
Patrick Beal, CEO of the Detroit Training Center
That didn’t line up with what the state had recently told us, so we checked with MDOS again. They told us that students still were not eligible to take their skills tests.
“MDOS’s review of the compliance issues at this school is still ongoing. DTC students are not currently eligible to take their skills test.”
Michigan Department of State
The Investigators at Local 4 have been receiving a lot of tips from former and current students and staff. We’re continuing to dig into this story and demand answers.
How to contact state for help
Any current, former, or prospective Detroit Training Center students who have questions about their training or next steps can reach the Michigan Department of State either via email at drivered@michigan.gov or 517-241-6850 for guidance.
If you need something investigated you can reach out to the Investigators at Local 4 through the ClickOnDetroit Help Desk or by emailing us directly at Local4Investigators@wdiv.com.
Local 4 Investigator’s questions to the Michigan Department of State
Will students need to repeat hours?
Local 4’s Question: Does this mean students who believed they were receiving training (from the Detroit Training Center) would need to repeat all those hours?
MDOS Answer: The Michigan Department of State (MDOS) is currently reviewing student records. If Entry Level Driver Training (ELDT) requirements were not satisfied, the students will need to receive training from a Training Provider whose curriculum meets federal regulations.
Is the Detroit Training Center working with the state to fix this?
Local 4’s Question: Has the Detroit Training Center been working with the state to get back in compliance?
MDOS Answer: This is part of the department’s active investigation so we’re not able to share further details at this time.
Are any former students at risk of losing their license?
Local 4’s Question: Does the violation work retroactively, are there any students who are at risk of losing a license if they got their education through the Detroit Training Center?
MDOS Answer: This matter remains an active investigation, and we cannot give information on specific individuals or potential outcomes at this time.
Generally, the Department evaluates these situations on a case-by-case basis, with a focus on ensuring that all required training and testing standards are met. If any action is required, the Department will directly contact any student or former student who is affected and give guidance on next steps.