So I had a CDL that I never used 5 years ago because of life circumstances. I went to a local CDL School passed and got my license but never used it. Now 5 years later trying to get back into the industry for the first time. Went today to get my CDL Permit from the DMV and was told that if I get a new DOT Medical card, duplicate license, and a renew before the month is up i'll get a new CDL-A with a 5 years extension on it. The issue is that what do I do now. I need more then a refresher course because I haven't really ever driven a Tractor besides the 4 weeks in school 5 years ago. I remember nothing about the pre-trip, and probably extremely rusty on backing. I feel driving on the road i'll for sure take out a couple light posts and stop signs since it's been so long since I drove.
DMV is correct; get a new physical and your cdl will be reinstated. Several companies will hire you and put you through a refresher course. Many drivers on this forum have a cdl but haven't ever driven since cdl school and now have jobs with companies that hired them and put them through a refresher course. Don't worry, those companies won't turn you loose until you're ready because those trucks are expensive. Refresher course is a success for those companies, that's why they have them.
Schneider Abilene Motor Express Knight Transportation Western Express Magnum Ltd. Celadon FedEx Freight probably a dozen others
No, you won't. Even with a refresher, you'll have a trainer with you until you're ready to go it alone. You don't need all that classroom time studying for a cdl that you already have. All you need a little classroom for learning Elogs and current rules and regulations. The rest will be learning pre-trip inspection and driving with a trainer.
Abilene Motor Express has hired a few drivers that haven't driven in 20 years and it's been a success for the driver and the company.
That classroom training will be part of your initial training at any company; they all assume new employees do not know their ELD/Messaging system. Do assume you will drive with a trainer for a month or so. Less pay, but you will get in the experience you need.
I fail to understand the acceptance that when you get your bottom back into a 18 wheeler you are going to runover posts and stuff. I have gone years without touching a big rig. However Ive kept up with most of them and would not be a trouble at all to break rust off in 15 minutes or so. It's like riding a bike you never forget.
But he only passed school and does not have real-world experience. This is like saying he rode the bike once without training wheels and 10 years later be as good as someone with.
