Western express road test?

Discussion in 'Questions From New Drivers' started by dommac, Aug 7, 2020.

  1. dommac

    dommac Bobtail Member

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    Could anybody tell me what the Road test is like for western express? I’ve never failed a road test, and I’m a pretty good driver. However I’m putting a lot on the line leaving my current company so any advice would be greatly appreciated. Also I have only backed 48 foot trailer’s, and I’m pretty sure they run 53 footers.

    Thanks,
    Dom
     
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  3. TripleSix

    TripleSix God of Roads

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    Question! I don't mean to be nosy, but there is something I have to know...)

    If you are an experienced driver, why are you seeking employment from an entry level company that hires fresh off the bus students? It's like repeating 3rd grade after receiving your high school diploma. Seems like quite the step backwards.

    The biggest difference between a 48ft and a 53ft van is the extra tailswing that the 53 has. The axle spacings should be similar. So, if you can back a 48, you can back a 53.
     
  4. Kyle G.

    Kyle G. Road Train Member

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    I think their road test consists of showing them that you have a pulse.

    Lol
     
  5. farmerjohn64

    farmerjohn64 Road Train Member

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    Idk if they got everything back up and running in Nashville, but when I did mine a couple months ago after the tornado wrecked the terminal all you did was online tests and a road test, load securement too if you’re doing flatbed; as for trailers they have a couple 48’s they’re supposed to be phasing out, they’re crap, try to get a 53’ with winches on both sides because trust me I wasted almost all yesterday trying to compensate for that key difference when trying to use my ratchet straps to get some alternating pull (again, flatbed); if you’re doing dry van just drive cuz hehe
     
    Last edited: Aug 7, 2020
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  6. otterinthewater

    otterinthewater Road Train Member

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    The road test out of the Bloomington, California yard was 4 right turns on a trip around the block. The last turn was tight and then back to the yard. Later in the afternoon you did the same trip again. You need to pay attention to the signs and sights the testers will ask “what did that sign say? What color was that fire hydrant?”

    As far as backing goes they’d show you a backup and then coach you through it if you needed help.

    That’s it. It’s not hard with any experience at all, and if you have no experience and fresh out of school you’ll still make it.

    The test was basically to help them decide how many hours you’ll need with a trainer. If you’re well experienced it helps them to decide if you’ll need a trainer at all.

    I haven’t been a trainer at Western Express in a year. So take the above post with a grain of salt. I also have no idea what the other yards were like.

    OP - Feel free to PM with any questions.
     
  7. dommac

    dommac Bobtail Member

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    I’m not too experienced, I’ve only been driving since last September. I liked western because they told me they’d put me out without a trainer and I feel I’d make pretty good money for a rookie doing flatbed until I have a few years under my belt
     
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  8. dommac

    dommac Bobtail Member

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    Thank you so much for the advice! That definitely eases my mind a lot and makes me alot more confident of taking the leap to western.
     
  9. TripleSix

    TripleSix God of Roads

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    That's 11 months experience. Recent experience? Or have you been out of the saddle for a bit?
     
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