Advice for CDL training?

Good evening folks...my name is Dave and I'm a first time poster here.

I retired from the service three years ago and now working on finding a new purpose in life...I'm attracted to the idea of being on the road for extended periods of time in solitude, throwing myself at my work, and just taking on the challenge of the lifestyle. Not married and no kids...I do have a dog but it appears at least some of the freight companies don't mind if you take canine friends along on the road.

I haven't yet used any educational benefits and it seems fairly straightforward to use post-9/11 GI for CDL school. I'm not necessarily looking for specific school names, but more asking for advice on what to look for in a good program. There seem to be a number of private options in my area...I've also noticed some folks in the forum saying community college programs can be a good way to go. Searching online gives so many results it's hard to know where to begin.

Finally, I got a DUI when I was 21 in 1996 (I haven't had so much as a speeding ticket since) and I take VA prescribed medication for PTSD. Guessing I probably shouldn't waste my time pursuing a CDL if either of these are show stoppers?

Any advice is greatly appreciated.

Thanks!
Dave

 

That's funny, I was a helicopter guy and actually landed on the class of ship in that picture. I feel like I spent enough time at sea in the navy, though...the road is somehow more appealing at this stage.

 

I did my ship's company tour on USS Peleliu (LHA-5) in the air dept, last I heard she was in mothball in Hawaii. Usually pilots hate going to the ship but I did my best to embrace it...ended up being a really fun time that flew by. Best CO I ever served under...and it's not close.