Got my Class A CDL Ya'll!!!!! Yes!! - Official Truckers Thread

[GoFlipAPack]

I found a community college nearby that has a course. It's cheaper than one of the trucking schools. One of my concerns is not getting enough time behind the wheel while at school.

 

[Whore D'oeuvres]

I found a community college nearby that has a course. It's cheaper than one of the trucking schools. One of my concerns is not getting enough time behind the wheel while at school.

The issue at hand is that you still have 4 years before you retire. Even if you had plenty of wheel time in driving school there's gonna be huge gaps in your driving experience either way, right? Correct me if I'm wrong.

 

[GoFlipAPack]

The issue at hand is that you still have 4 years before you retire. Even if you had plenty of wheel time in driving school there's gonna be huge gaps in your driving experience either way, right? Correct me if I'm wrong.

True. I'm just talking enough time in school to feel comfortable to pass the DMV road test. For the time being so you thi k it would be helpful to try and get a job driving flat beds/box trucks to get a little experience? I know it ain't the same but its "experience"

 

[Whore D'oeuvres]

True. I'm just talking enough time in school to feel comfortable to pass the DMV road test. For the time being so you thi k it would be helpful to try and get a job driving flat beds/box trucks to get a little experience? I know it ain't the same but its "experience"

Passing the test shouldn't be an issue. Roadmaster says they offer on-site testing at certain locations. In my experience getting enough wheel time to pass the test isn't problematic at all.

A lot of carriers that offer training as well as driving schools are certified state testers too so it's basically a 1 stop shop where they'll teach you the basics so you can get a permit, train you behind the wheel while you have the permit, and the same people that trained you will administer your road test so you leave with a CDL. Sure, you could drive a flatbed or box truck in the meantime to help get you somewhat familiar.

Were you planning to start with your own rig from the jump or were you planning to drive for a company to start out?

 

[Tanahashi Coates]

A lot of carriers that offer training as well as driving schools are certified state testers too so it's basically a 1 stop shop where they'll teach you the basics so you can get a permit, train you behind the wheel while you have the permit, and the same people that trained you will administer your road test so you leave with a CDL.

Depends on the school. The school I went to had a state employee administer tests every week.

Why do you say to hold off?

I wouldn't sign with a mega company to start. Some companies might take you with no experience local with no experience.

 

[detach]

Even if self driving trucks become the norms, you still need a driver in the cock pit and to take full control when you're docking.

 

[MECCA1000]

Basically all carriers who offer cdl training will have at least a year or two commitment contract for drivers who get their cdl through them.

 

[GoFlipAPack]

Basically all carriers who offer cdl training will have at least a year or two commitment contract for drivers who get their cdl through them.

Is the pay decent?

 

[Chrishaune]

Is the pay decent?

I took a loan out and just paid it off as I worked. You really don't want to be tied to a company unless you know for sure you are going to enjoy your time driving for them. A lot of people burn out after a while.

I'd rather work and have the option to leave for a better opportunity when it pops up. Essentially you are doing the same thing (paying your debt), but with options....

Get as many endorsements as you can....

 

[GoFlipAPack]

Passing the test shouldn't be an issue. Roadmaster says they offer on-site testing at certain locations. In my experience getting enough wheel time to pass the test isn't problematic at all.

A lot of carriers that offer training as well as driving schools are certified state testers too so it's basically a 1 stop shop where they'll teach you the basics so you can get a permit, train you behind the wheel while you have the permit, and the same people that trained you will administer your road test so you leave with a CDL. Sure, you could drive a flatbed or box truck in the meantime to help get you somewhat familiar.

Were you planning to start with your own rig from the jump or were you planning to drive for a company to start out?

I'd start out with a company 1st. I dont want to get a truck and not know how to acquire contracts

 

[J.E.T.S]

I'd start out with a company 1st. I dont want to get a truck and not know how to acquire contracts

load boards and networking

 

[Chrishaune]

I'd start out with a company 1st. I dont want to get a truck and not know how to acquire contracts

I was just really talking about the school

 

[MECCA1000]

I'd start out with a company 1st. I dont want to get a truck and not know how to acquire contracts

They got apps for that. Even Uber is in on it ..... Uber freight is a job board where you can find loads.

There's a ton of info to be found on YouTube. Lot of truckers are putting out really good content about the ins and outs of the industry.

Best type of truck/engine for your needs. Best insurance and what states to avoid. How to do minor repairs and Best mechanic shops and truck stops ........
Get as much info as you can now so by the time you're ready, you won't be walking in blind

 

[GoFlipAPack]

 

[Sonic Boom of the South]

I'm not sure yet how I'm going to pay. I'm still in the air force on active duty. I'm trying to get my cdl way before I retire. 4 years until I retire. I want to buy my own truck and eventually a trailer.

How will u go to trucking school while being active duty?
and why would u even attempt it now and not wait till u get out in 4 years