Advice for after school

Discussion in 'Questions From New Drivers' started by MaunaLoa, Sep 26, 2021.

  1. MaunaLoa

    MaunaLoa Bobtail Member

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    I’m 56 and decided to follow a dream and get into trucking after a couple of careers in Hospitlaity, and Digital Marketing. I start my CDL-A class in Tampa 1st of November. I decided to pay for the class myself, but I have concerns on what happens after graduation. I see most of the local jobs require 6-12 months experience. I want to stay regional or local until my youngest gets out of HS in a couple years. Can anyone advise me on what’s next and how to get hired with no experience. Thanks
     
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  3. dptrucker

    dptrucker Road Train Member

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    you can start putting in apps now.
    after filling in app give the company a call.
    some companies will reimburse you for schooling. ask about that
     
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  4. dptrucker

    dptrucker Road Train Member

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  5. Moronica

    Moronica Light Load Member

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    Very difficult to get a local job without any OTR experience. As a driver , you need to be able to handle any situation that comes up while driving in a city. You may have to settle for a OTR job that has you out 5 days and back home for your reset. Maybe do that for 4 - 6 months before even attempting to look for a local job . Even then, many local - home nightly jobs want you to have at least 1 year OTR experience
     
  6. MaunaLoa

    MaunaLoa Bobtail Member

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    Thank You. I was thinking of doing just that. If I’m gone 5 days I think I can do that. Even if I have to spend 4-6 weeks out doing training, I don’t think that would be bad.
     
  7. MaunaLoa

    MaunaLoa Bobtail Member

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    Thanks. I’m not too worried about the cost of school. I view it as an investment. I just didn’t want to be locked into an agreement where I was paying someone back. I’m guessing I can apply and say I’m getting my license and have no experience. I just need some seat time.
     
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  8. Hawkeye72

    Hawkeye72 Light Load Member

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    Look at LTL companies in your area most have dock to driver programs. You come in as a dock work and get CDL training then you become a full time driver.
     
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  9. Moronica

    Moronica Light Load Member

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    Just be aware - it is not uncommon for trucking companies to try and change your routes and time out once they get you in the door . The ad might say home weekly , but they actually want you out longer
     
  10. Frank Speak

    Frank Speak Road Train Member

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    Well, your off to good start. The last thing you want is to be beholding to a company.
     
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  11. Atlanta trucker

    Atlanta trucker Road Train Member

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    Lots of companies with visit your school , tell them what your looking for.
     
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