Question for all the newer Swift drivers

Are you talking about schooling or the mentor program? If you are going to school then where? I think everyone will agree with me, it's luck of the draw as to how your trainers and mentor are. The only time you will have a choice is if there are issues between the 2 of you and then, it will be luck of the draw again so in reality it isn't a choice.

Ok, I just saw that you are a wannabe: No matter where you go to school at, get a CDL Training Manuel from your local MVD and STUDY it before you go. It helps in the long run. When you are in school it is a crash course. First week is paper work and written tests. See where I'm going....you only have a week to study if you don't in advance. Oh....know the pretrip and 7 step airbrake backwards and forwards. You won't be on the range until week 2 and 3. The school is only a crash course...don't get discouraged. You will learn more with your mentor. Also make your stand in advance, let them know what YOU want. If you have issues with your trainer or mentor, let your recruiter know, they can't help you if they don't know. REMEMBER: Safety first, if anyone of them puts you into an unsafe situation, speak up....this is YOUR training and YOU are paying for it. Ask questions, lots of them. Get tips. Once out with the mentor, have him put you in difficult situations so you will be somewhat prepared. Some mentors and trainers will intimidate you so be prepared. NEVER think you know it all, if you get to that point it's time to hand over the keys. Most of all, don't do anything stupid, they will send you home with NO CDL and a HUGE bill.

As far as picking the trucks, you will have the choice of whatever is sitting at your terminal that is available. Don't plan on getting anything new though, you definitly get the leftovers!


If you have anymore questions then be specific so we can answer what you want to know. Many of your questions may already be answered here.....do a search on this site for Swift Training or even your particular question, I bet it is already here.


Best of luck to you! Trucking is NOT a job, it's a LIFESTYLE.

 

About how much does it cost for a CDL refresher course?

 

Well I have a question about that bill in particular.Will they work with you on a payment plan if you sign the contract? Me personally I'll be happier than a pig in #### making 30k my first year,better than the 17k i'm making right now.I guess what I'm saying is just how much do you have to pay upfront?

 

How many hours does it take for a refresher course?

 

Check with the school where you obtained your cdl first. Some (like mine) will let you return no matter how long ago you attended for free..

When you do go with a mentor pay close attention to what he/she teaches you.. If you are left alone after a few hrs on the road and they go to the sleeper let your training dm now and then ask for a new mentor.. My mentor was great with Swift and we have become good friends afterwards.. He and I longer work for them but keep in touch on a regular basis.. When you have any down time for what ever reason make sure he/she lets you get as many backing practices as you can.. I did this for 3 days in San Antonio when our truck was in the shop, and boy did it every help..