Recent grad

Looking to set myself up for highest probability of getting a D.O.D. driving career
ClassA ✔️
All endorsements ✔️
Currently getting exp ✔️
1 incident (personal veh.)
No infractions
ClassB (25yr exp)
No criminal history ⚖️
I have no established Teammate driver
Any guidance/ advice?

 

You need:

• 3 years OTR CDL-A experience, with a clean safety record
• You already have the tanker & hazmat endorsements
• Download US government form "SF-86"....& fill it out as completely & accurately as possible. You (& your team partner) will be THOROUGHLY VETTED from your respective form info
• If you are still single -- stay that way
• If you are still childless -- stay that way
• If you are currently not a homeowner -- stay that way
• If you currently don't use recreational drugs -- don't start; if you do -- better quit
• Don't use "gummies"
• Toughest part may well be finding a compatible teammate; most carriers for DoD won't pair you up with one
• Avoid car accidents/traffic citations/warnings

-- L

 

What he said.

 

@Nahbrown recently went through the process.

Ping may get their attention. If not may want to drop them a private message.

 

all good advice.
Some companies only require two years experience
get flatbed experience

there are some companies like Panther that you may not even have to buy a truck to get started but most will require you to have a California compliant Semi. A few require you to have a trailer as well.

 

25 years Class B certification so you’re not new to trucking. That’ll help you a lot

 

Some DoD carriers will want you to have some flatbed duty in your past.

You don't say where you are located, but the following are some flatbed carriers that are likely looking for drivers (if you have no previous flatbed/big rig experience -- they offer very good training, as well):

• Maverick Transportation
• TMC
• Melton Truck Lines
• Jordan Carriers
• McElroy Truck Lines

Avoid ("steer clear") Western Express!!!!

-- L

 

Boyle Transportation

Tri State Motor Carriers

 

Keep this in mind regarding your Security clearance. If you already have it you are very desirable and companies will work with you to get you on board.

if you don’t have a Security Clearance then they may want you to run general freight for 6 months before paying to get your Clearance.


If I were in your shoes I would call ATS. They have a flatbed division AND a DOD secure freight division.
tell them your long term goals up front. Find out their requirements to be a company flatbed driver and how transferring to DOD secure would work. You will need to find a teammate eventually but that can wait for now.

 

What exactly is "ping?"