RFP #2027-2000-0053 Entry Level Driver Training Theory for CDL

The Alaska Department of Corrections, Division of Health and Rehabilitation Services is soliciting proposals for entry-level commercial driver's license (CDL) Class A theory training at Wildwood Correctional Complex, with proposals due August 13, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. Alaska Time. Offerors must be listed on the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration's Training Provider List and hold a Class A CDL with at least two years of commercial vehicle driving experience or commercial motor vehicle instruction experience.

The scope covers classroom and simulator-based instruction using the L3Harris TranSim CDL Simulator and Hawk I virtual reality pre-trip headset, delivered during standard business hours (8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Monday–Friday) at Wildwood Correctional Complex in Kenai, Alaska. The contractor must provide training curriculum, instructional materials, and supplies; the Department supplies workspace and equipment. The program prepares incarcerated individuals to obtain a Commercial Learner's Permit and CDL certification upon release.

The budget is $50,000 to $55,000; proposals exceeding $55,000 are non-responsive. This is a firm fixed-price contract with payment upon invoice approval within 30 days. The initial term runs September 1, 2026 through June 30, 2027, with two optional renewal periods extending through August 31, 2029. The Department anticipates awarding a minimum of one and up to three contracts based on proposal quality and state interest.

All contractor personnel must undergo Department of Corrections background checks and security clearance prior to facility access. Preferred qualifications include prior corrections or criminal justice experience, customer references, and litigation history documentation. Proposals are evaluated on a 1,000-point scale: 50% qualifications (200 points for experience, 100 points each for project understanding, methodology, and management plan), 40% cost, and 10% Alaska Offeror Preference. Questions are due August 7, 2026. An evaluation conclusion is estimated for August 20, 2026, with Notice of Intent to Award on August 21, 2026. Vendors downloading the RFP must register with Benjamin Baker at benjamin.baker@alaska.gov to receive amendments and be added to the vendor list, or their bid may be deemed non-responsive.