Beginning the Long Awaited CDL Process

There seems to be light at the end of the tunnel. Needing a doctor's note is easy enough.

Maybe I'll have an excuse to pack again.

 

Thanks vmwelker.

The doc's composing the letter today. With a little luck, I can get it turned in to safety by the weekend.

 

Thanks for the support Roadrunner.

I was reading all your posts and the responses from others and thought I should contribute my 2 cents.

Where you get your CDL training is almost a secondary issue because the typical training school has one objective and that's to get you your Class A CDL. Nothing else. Your real training begins once you head out with your trainer, and continues throughout your driving career. However, you may want to make your choice based on which training schools your intended company likes to hire from. For example, you mentioned Watkins and Shepard. They have a list of schools they prefer. When I narrowed down my choices of schools, I looked up their BBB rating, as well.

I investigated many training schools in my area and none of them guaranteed me employment. My school did help with submitting applications to different trucking companies, where as a result I received "prehire agreements", but no guaranteed job. A pre-hire simply means you'll be accepted to driver orientation. You are not officially hired as a driver until you complete your company training program and upgrade to solo driver. There are too many variables to consider for your basic CMV training school to assure you employment.

As far as who to work for, well, there are plenty of different ways to answer that question. The positive mindset would suggest to set a goal and go for for it. I agree, if it can be done. But once you get your CDL, the clock starts ticking. If you go 90 days without hiring on to someone, most companies will want you to take a refresher course, and that will be at your expense. So my recommendation is go with the first "acceptable" company that will hire you, get the company training finished, and get some seat time. Once you have experience,you can apply to one of the premier companies. Most will want you to have at least one year of experience.

So start researching. It'll be time for school before you know it.

OK.....I'm off the soap box.

 

Thanks Navyguy, and welcome.

There are plenty of great threads to read on this forum, and no shortage of advice from the seasoned veterens.

Good luck and I'll be looking forward to hearing about your training. First cup of joe is on me.