Getting Started!

Hey, everyone! So my big question is how should I get started with trucking? Obviously I know starting out by getting a CDL is the first place to start! But what's the best way to do that? I was thinking of going and getting my permit at the DMV for starters. But my biggest issue is what to do once I get the permit? I have several family friends that own rigs but I know I wouldn't be able to use them enough to get enough practice in. And most companies don't even consider anyone until 21 and Im 19 now so I'm kind of stuck in a sticky situation and not sure what's the best path to take.

I do want to add Im very passionate for trucking ever sense a kid I've always loved the idea of driving a semi truck! So I am very passionate about this and definitely would like to put forth what ever it takes to make it possible!

Any help or additional thoughts is always appreciated!

 

Warehouse to Driver Program | Drive for Dot | Dot ...
https://drivefordot.com/blog/warehouse-to-driver-program
Jul 19, 2019 · At Dot, we found that for some people who have never been a truck driver before, entering the industry can be intimidating. So, we created the Warehouse to Driver Program —a gradual transition program that allows employees to get used to Dot and the way we function in the warehouse before attending driving school and then, ultimately, transitioning into a Dot driver role with Dot Transportation, Inc. (DTI).

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How does the Warehouse to Driver Program work?
You will start working in one of our 12 warehouses across the country. For six to 12 months, you will learn the in’s and out’s of Dot’s warehouses, business model, and values. After those six to 12 months are up, you will start attending a Dot-approved driving school to get your Class A Commercial Drivers License (CDL).

While you are in driving school, you will continue to work reduced hours in the warehouse. Once you have obtained your CDL, you will transition into becoming a full-time Dot driver.

What if I am not 21 years old yet?
That’s okay! You can still go through our Warehouse to Driver Program, similar to the way anyone else would. The difference is that after you get your CDL and complete DTI training, you will drive within your state until you are 21. At that point, you will be legally allowed to drive a commercial vehicle across state lines.*

*The program may have slight variances depending on the location. Please reach out to the distribution center nearest you for more information.

What about paying for truck driving school?
DTI will pay for truck driving school upfront so you can obtain your CDL. This helps you focus on your education so you can hit the road as soon as possible and not be strapped financially.

 

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Land O' Lakes in New Berlin and Genesco use 18 yr, old cdl drivers.
Don't know how their program works.

 

Which city/town are you in or near in Illinois?

 

As a last resort, attend private cdl school and acquire a cdl.
Someone will hire you to run intrastate, within the state of Illinois.
Might be a box truck or a tractor trailer, but you'll be gaining experience.

 

Go ask your relatives to see if you can tag along with minimal driving to get the hang of it.

 

I live around the Rockford area in Illinois.

I thought about doing CDL school, but I looked into it and its over 5k around here! So I really don't want to spend that much :/

 

Where do you want to be in 3 years in the trucking profession???

Van. Reefer. Tanker. Flatbed. Local.

Answer that question, and you'll have your answer.

 

The state might pay for trucking school through the WIOA program.
Those two companies I posted pay for cdl training.
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This company has non-cdl driving jobs. You can start like that.
Straightshot Express - Rockford, IL 61109