Passport and TWIC cards

That'll all get taken care of in due course. Don't worry about TWIC and passport right now.

 

My plan was to get everything I could get my hands on - all endorsements, TWIC and passport. I will try to get forklift too. Gives me better chances. I would have them as soon as possible.

Sent from my Samsung Galaxy S III

 

I would make sure you will need those items for the job first. Yes they are handy to have, but not make or break when it comes to getting loads from one of the bigger companies.

 

You can get them on your own or at Prime. Company drivers have to have them. However if you get them at Prime they will pay for them and then set you up with two or three payments out of your check to cover the cost

Same price either way, you just don't get stuck with the entire bill right away at Prime.

 

I think it is a good idea to have it before orientation! you will be ahead of everybody in the class and any immediate load opportunity will go your way like Canada loads. New accounts and customers pop up at any moment. I was very good as a driver because of how versatile I became learning how to pull flatbeds, pneumatic tankers, vans etc... not only will help you with Prime but with other companies if you decide to move on. Yes do it!

 

Trainees do not get any Canada or hazmat loads, so your having them is irrelevant during training.

Someone asked this question during orientation, and this was the answer given.

 

Oh they definitely get Hazmat loads! The trainee just sits in the passenger seat with zero seat time. I know first hand.

driver lineup: "just get this hazmat load off the yard driving solo for now, and your FM will get it repowered enroute so your trainee can drive.

FM (day later): no one available to repower a hazmat, your gonna have to solo it to CA.

The Canada deal might be new policy or that students just can't drive on a permit in Canada. however, I know a few people that have been surprised at the border that their trainee can't cross. (Trainees had no idea their misdemeanor records prevented entry) then the trainee ends up getting left at a hotel near the border.

 

Their instructors may get the loads, but the trainee can't do anything with them.

Also, I believe that Class A permits are not recognized in Canada.

 

Still, if he has time before orientation to get all that, do it! Think outside the box or you will be stuck with everbody else!