Private Training - Houston, TX

I apologize if this is not the correct area for this, but I have a question that I hope someone in the area might be able to help with.

I live in Houston, TX and passed all the exams for my Class A CLP with Tanker endorsement a couple months ago. I have had the opportunity to drive my neighbor's daycab around town a few times to begin to get comfortable with the shifting. I am at a bit of a dilemma now, as I am looking to get more training and practice in preparation for my road test (I went ahead and scheduled if for Jan. 19 to make sure I could get a spot before the rule changes go into effect). One big issue I face is that my neighbor does not own the trailer he hauls, so I have not had any opportunity to practice the actual skills I need, such as backing, wide turns and pre-trip.

I realize this may be a long-shot, but.... I am looking to see if there is someone in the Houston area that would be willing to let me hire them and their truck/trailer to get more practice and have it available for the road test on the 19th. If this is not an option, I would also like to know if there are any recommendations for private schools that could help with just the parts I need. I am limited by time however, as my regular job is very demanding. I am on PTO until the end of the year, so I am hoping to conduct this training next week.

Any assistance would be greatly appreciated.

A little more about me. I am 49 with a spotless driving record. I have worked behind a desk for my entire life and am looking to get into driving to see the country and start a new life.

 

That is good to know. How does that work with the HazMat endorsement? I am not allowed to test and apply for HazMat until I complete the road test, but I saw that the new rule requires the full training even to add it as an endorsement after you have your CDL?

 

That is a little far for me, but something to consider. Thanks.