Road Test

Discussion in 'Swift' started by Lycan56, Mar 25, 2014.

  1. Lycan56

    Lycan56 Light Load Member

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    Feb 22, 2014
    Rocky Mount NC
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    Just been pre hired and very concerned about actually being hired. Is the road test really difficult? I have not driven in a few years. The recruiter says you take the test and if you do not pass but seem to know how to drive safely but need time getting used to gear changing that they will train you for five days. I can pretty much always handle the truck safely but with being nervous and obviously never having driven the particular truck I do worry about changing gears at first. You read so much about people being sent home that it just adds to the anxiety.
     
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  3. Moosetek13

    Moosetek13 Road Train Member

    13,808
    16,320
    Nov 1, 2010
    Burnsville, MN
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    I tested in Fontana.

    It was easy.
    I pulled out of the terminal and made 4 right turns (6, if you count getting out of the terminal and back in) to get back in. The last turn was tricky, going on to a narrow 2 lane road. I had to wait for traffic to clear so I could use both lanes to avoid running the curb. I'm sure your area will have such a turn as well. Just set yourself up correctly and have some patience with tight turns.

    Then in the terminal I backed in to a fairly tight space.

    Time is NOT a factor, so take all you need. And G.O.A.L.!!! Get out and look at least once, even if you are right in the hole the first time.
    Pull-ups are also not a factor. If you need to adjust your angle, do it as many times as necessary to get it right.

    Don't push the clutch in too far or you'll hit the clutch brake and make your shifts more difficult.
    And, take your time, don't be in any hurry. You'll grind the gears less.
    The trailer is empty, which makes shifting easier.

    And probably the best advice I can give...

    Do NOT be the first driver in your group to be tested!
    Try to be last, or next to last, or...

    With little recent experience it would be a great advantage to see the test route, and the mistakes the others make, before you get behind the wheel.
    You can learn (and remember) a LOT from watching the other drivers.
     
  4. superpet39

    superpet39 Road Train Member

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    Jan 27, 2013
    Bay Area California
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    There's no "probably" about it.... this IS the best advice!

    I went out first (different company) and boy it was the worst (at first), i was floating and comfortable by the end though.

    One more thing: being the first (atleast where I road tested) gets you the longest road test
     
  5. dptrucker

    dptrucker Road Train Member

    4,562
    2,999
    May 14, 2012
    adelanto,ca.
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    not much to add. moosetek pretty much said it all ;)
     
  6. muleshoe

    muleshoe Light Load Member

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    Jul 4, 2013
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    It can be pretty intimidating taking a road test. Just don't get to stressed out. Pay attention to the tester. Mind your basic safety rules, and you'll do fine. Although, if you want a little insurance, offer to wash the tester's car.:biggrin_25525:
     
  7. MysticHZ

    MysticHZ Road Train Member

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    May 28, 2010
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    May not have that option ... Coming in with a CDL he may test before orientation, not with the students coming back for upgrade ... the road test will determine, if he may go out with a trainer and how long.

    I actually had an appointment for my road test and then went for my physical. That was on a Thursday, then came back for orientation on Monday. Swift had me go out with a mentor for 2 weeks. Teamed with an O/O friend for 3 weeks and leased my truck after that.
     
  8. GranaRig831

    GranaRig831 Light Load Member

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    Mar 22, 2014
    Ca.
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    "The recruiter says you take the test and if you do not pass but seem to know how to drive safely but need time getting used to gear changing that they will train you for five days."

    Do any of you know if this is true what the recruiter told him??
    Thanks!​





     
  9. WitchyWomen

    WitchyWomen Medium Load Member

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    Feb 10, 2012
    Buckeye, AZ
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    I did it topless and passed with flying colors, the tester was so nice not only did he GOAL for me he also he gave me his phone number.... ok I am just joking... I don't drive, I just love a guy who does. Give the Goddess Asphaltia a little shout out and she'll look out for you. Good luck!
     
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  10. Moosetek13

    Moosetek13 Road Train Member

    13,808
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    Nov 1, 2010
    Burnsville, MN
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    How did you get the top of the truck off?
     
    WitchyWomen Thanks this.
  11. A21CAV

    A21CAV Road Train Member

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    Oct 4, 2011
    Laredo, TX
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    She followed CRE into a parking garage.
     
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