CDL Student - when to start applying??

Discussion in 'Questions From New Drivers' started by fifasf, Aug 22, 2014.

  1. fifasf

    fifasf Bobtail Member

    32
    10
    Aug 7, 2014
    0
    I believe this has been touched on but figured I would ask anyway. So I completed and passed my general knowledge and combo endorsement for the permit and will be going this weds for the air brake to pass but read on here that it is suggested that you start applying for jobs as soon as you get your permit is this true? I am beginning my classes for the license next week and the instructor I spoke to advised to hold off till I was done. I want to keep things moving and get employment as soon as I get my license and can't afford any more delays so I wanted to see what you all feel is the best approach.

    thank you,

    -Scott
     
  2. Truckers Report Jobs

    Trucking Jobs in 30 seconds

    Every month 400 people find a job with the help of TruckersReport.

  3. Wild Murphy

    Wild Murphy HAPPY TRUCK DRIVER

    942
    779
    Mar 25, 2014
    0
    Start researching now what type of truck you want to drive, van, reefer, tanker, etc... then research companies you might go with. Apply now and get your prehires out of the way. That way when you graduate you can be in the next orientation for the company you choose.
     
    GWIZ2260 and Puppage Thank this.
  4. Wild Murphy

    Wild Murphy HAPPY TRUCK DRIVER

    942
    779
    Mar 25, 2014
    0
    All of my instructors said to get started right away. I had a 4 week course. So it took me a couple of weeks to get my paperwork straight. Unless you are in a 3 or 4 month course, I would recommend anyone start applying about 4 weeks before you have your cdl.
     
  5. Gunner75

    Gunner75 Road Train Member

    5,701
    9,071
    Mar 17, 2014
    Jackson Center Ohio
    0
    I had 7 prehires before I started school. Do a lot of research and don't fall for the bs stories from the mega carriers.
     
    GWIZ2260 and Wild Murphy Thank this.
  6. Snowshoes

    Snowshoes Heavy Load Member

    878
    664
    Sep 23, 2012
    Pleasant Grove, Utah
    0
    I am getting ready to retire from the Military, it won't be complete for a couple of months but I started my application process now, I have explained to the representitives that have called, the situation, I still have the pre hires, they told me, as soon as I am retired the apps are done and then it is up to me to choose which company to go with. I have pre hires from 6 companies, and my short list is down to 3 of them. Of course I already have a few years experience and have kept my CDL current while on Active Duty.
     
  7. fifasf

    fifasf Bobtail Member

    32
    10
    Aug 7, 2014
    0
    Yes my course is 3weeks . I will start this weekend getting feelers out there and I know to say way from the signing bonus companies and bs .

    thanks !!
     
  8. Chinatown

    Chinatown Road Train Member

    68,035
    142,286
    Aug 28, 2011
    Henderson, NV & Orient
    0
    Start submitting online applications the day CDL classes start.

    Where is your location, city/state? Some drivers on this forum can give you some good companies to apply with if they know the hiring area you live in.

    What type trucking do you want; van, refrigerated, flatbed, tankers?
     
  9. fifasf

    fifasf Bobtail Member

    32
    10
    Aug 7, 2014
    0
    I am located in southern NJ . I have no clue as to what type of truck I want to drive . I am getting a class A but my original plan was to be a route delivery driver but I am looking for stability , good pay and the chance to eventually move into an ops position possibly like my buddy did with his company in a few years.

    But I am open for any opportunity at this point I just want to work and put in the OT hours.
     
    Chinatown Thanks this.
  10. Chinatown

    Chinatown Road Train Member

    68,035
    142,286
    Aug 28, 2011
    Henderson, NV & Orient
    0
    NFI is based in New Jersey and a very diversified company; probably worth looking into. They do hire new CDL graduates.

    Old Dominion is another good choice for what you want.
     
  11. fifasf

    fifasf Bobtail Member

    32
    10
    Aug 7, 2014
    0
    I will look into them , thank you very much for the I site as I have no idea where to look as far as companies haha.
     
    Chinatown Thanks this.
  • Truckers Report Jobs

    Trucking Jobs in 30 seconds

    Every month 400 people find a job with the help of TruckersReport.