Never driven a CDL Vehicle before

Discussion in 'Questions From New Drivers' started by P71Tech, Feb 27, 2020.

  1. P71Tech

    P71Tech Bobtail Member

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    Nov 10, 2019
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    So this is where I'm at. I'm 32 and looking to switch careers. I'm currently working in the criminal justice field and I'm completely burned out. Previous to this career I was a mechanic working on light and medium duty, and would like to get back into this field in some capacity or another. Big trucks have always interested me and I've had a passion for them for a long time, especially wanting to drive them. My biggest worry at his point is I've never driven a class 8 vehicle and to be honest its a bit intimidating. Anyone have any pointers about getting in and driving your very first time. Any help is appreciated. Thanks
     
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  3. AModelCat

    AModelCat Road Train Member

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    In the words of the great Larry Enticer: "Just send it!"
     
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  4. x1Heavy

    x1Heavy Road Train Member

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    Yes they are big. However they are not THAT big. Nor that demanding.

    ANYONE can get into the modern semis today, find the starter button and push the D button after learning the two buttons in bright yellow and red.

    Off you go then. Don't hit anything.
     
  5. Wasted Thyme

    Wasted Thyme Road Train Member

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    If you've ever driven a manual, and/or towed a trailer behind your 4 wheeler. Then you are halfway there already. The trailer towing pretty much gives you the same feel as a TT at a "smaller" scale. So you already know what to do to steer it, and the off tracking of the trailer. The manual has you good on gears, except the switch and the double clutching. Now you have to decide if you did get your CDL if you are wanting to go local/regional/OTR. Each have their pros/cons. If you are single vs married, IMO, it is a better career choice. As your marriage has to be strong to deal with the weeks on the road and few days home if you choose OTR...etc. Good luck in your thoughts.
     
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  6. Chinatown

    Chinatown Road Train Member

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    Do you plan to drive full time, or just curious about it?
     
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  7. Numb

    Numb Crusty Curmudgeon

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    most drivers have never driven a truck, other than a p/up, when they start out.

    that being said, it all depends on whether your brain will pick up on the needed dynamics of an articulating vehicle. sounds scary, huh? lol.

    it should be scary enough to be taken seriously , because it is a dangerous trade. but it's not that difficult really.

    some don't ever get it and drop out the school ,most do pass.
     
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  8. Chinatown

    Chinatown Road Train Member

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    Superior-Carriers hires new cdl school grads in Maine.
    Hire from specific schools, so if interested, check and find out which schools they hire from.
    $65 - $80K right out of cdl school.
    upload_2020-2-27_7-7-57.jpeg
     
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  9. P71Tech

    P71Tech Bobtail Member

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    Nov 10, 2019
    Southern Maine
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    I've driven smaller box trucks and 1 ton pickups towing a loaded 20ft trailer. I got 2 little girls and my marriage is about as strong a mexican water is healthy. I would like to try over the road, but for family sake I would probably want to do local.
     
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  10. Chinatown

    Chinatown Road Train Member

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    Which city/town are you in or near?
     
  11. P71Tech

    P71Tech Bobtail Member

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    Nov 10, 2019
    Southern Maine
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    I need another full time career. I'm currently in the hiring process to get hired with a dealership as a HD Parts counter, they said they would help me in the process in getting my CDL. I would almost prefer staying in that position and just drive part time on the side if it works out
     
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