Need to get CDL to run beyond 150 mile farm limit- Options?

Discussion in 'Trucking Schools and CDL Training Forum' started by jayfarmlaw, Oct 24, 2022.

  1. jayfarmlaw

    jayfarmlaw Bobtail Member

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    Long story short, the drought has caused Oklahoma hay prices to rise to gouging levels. Hay I would normally pay $30-$40 for is selling for $150+ as soon as it hit the market. There is cheap hay available in neighboring states and we have had a semi and step deck for years. I didn't get my CDL before February because 99% of my hay runs have been less than 150 miles from the farm. It looks like I will have to get my CDL or risk getting parked for being beyond my 150 mile farm tag limit. That's not a risk I'm willing to take.

    I'm not worried about the written tests, or even the driving tests, but It looks like I have to have a "Behind the Wheel" trainer to sign off before I can take my driving test. Are there private trainers I can get to ride with me in my truck and run through a simulated driving test or do I have to take an "Expedited" 4 day class to the tune of $2500. That does include the use of their truck for the test which normally would be $500.

    I've been driving the semi for 5 years and pulling heavy, long, loads with a one ton for almost 40 years. Only reason we went to a semi was the cost of a new dually...but that's another story.

    Thanks in advance for your response.

    Jay
     
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  3. Chinatown

    Chinatown Road Train Member

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  4. Moose1958

    Moose1958 Road Train Member

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    I'm not 100% sure I don't think so but I could be wrong. Let's tag @brian991219 and get his take.
     
  5. brian991219

    brian991219 Road Train Member

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    Thanks M,

    Unfortunately the OP will need to complete the entire entry level driver training program including classroom, range and behind the wheel.

    There are private ELDT providers that may use his truck or there are others that will insist he go to their school. The qualified skills range is the problem for most traveling trainers. I do traveling ELDT training but I can say it costs a lot more than $2,500 since I give 1 on 1 instruction to a standard at or above the minimum ELDT requirements.

    The OP can find a list of ELDT providers on the FMCSA registry here
    Training Provider Registry
     
    gentleroger Thanks this.
  6. brian991219

    brian991219 Road Train Member

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    Let me clarify, the ELDT requirements are more than having someone ride along and give a simulated exam. Sadly they require written knowledge tests and basic control skills even for folks that have been driving for a long time.
     
  7. Moose1958

    Moose1958 Road Train Member

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    Thank you @brian991219 it is soon going to be 10 years since I last drove a CMV. I still get asked about the best way to get from one place to another and honestly I tell them I don't know what shape the roads are in or where the construction hot spots are. Things like that ELDT as well as the basic ELD stuff I don't get into much. What I do these days is basically try to have a good understanding of parts 40 and 391.
     
    brian991219 Thanks this.
  8. DRTDEVL

    DRTDEVL Road Train Member

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    AFAIK, Case CDL in MO is the lowest-cost ELDT/CDL program.

    ELDT Theory online is $149, then the "class" time for practice and testing is another $795. Less than $1k for a CDL through them.

    Then you take your MO CDL home to transfer to an OK CDL.

    ELDT Theory and BTW CDL training in St. James & Rolla Mo.
     
    jayfarmlaw, Todd727 and rch10007 Thank this.
  9. Todd727

    Todd727 Light Load Member

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    You can do the theory online at places like CDLDirect.com.

    Then you need to find a trainer that will go over pre-trip, maneuvers and on road. You have tons of experience, so I would expect this to be fairly easy. Can get it done in a day.

    You will need to get your medical card and CDL permit. You have to have the permit for 14 days before you can do the practical test.

    By far the easiest thing to do is call Case. There rates went up a bit and it is now a two day class. I believe the total is around $1600 + online theory. I can match that price, but in MS, so it doesn't really help you.
     
    jayfarmlaw Thanks this.
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