Progressive Truck Driving School - Chicago

After spinning my wheels for the last 8-months, I decided to get the CDL through an actual school. No more borrowing trucks, etc.

I signed up at Progressive Truck Driving School. They are based in Chicago, IL. I will be attending there south suburban location.

They have a holiday special price - $1800 for the 160hr program.

I will try to journal my experience for any who might be interested.

 

As of today, the special is still going on. I'm not sure how long it will last.

 

35/160 hours in the books.
I don't think I will even sit in the driver's seat until I have 80hrs of 'class time' in. I had no idea how much 'school' was required in trucking school.
Two things jump out at me:
1.) The knowledge and experience of the instructors.
2.) The equipment is clean and well-kept.

The school is PTDI certified and we have very thick text book.
We do Pre-Trip everyday and have to take chapter tests.

Biggest thing that I have learned, is that I know nothing.
From what I see in this forum, I would do well to keep that in mind throughout my trucking career.

 

Had my first hour of 'behind-the-wheel'.
Icy road, at night.

I was able to down shift with relative ease, dispite just having watched others. Several 4WD's felt that I was going too slow, so after tailgating me, they sped (slid) by me.

Instructor was very helpful and calm.

 

Out on the road again. More improvement in downshifting.
Noticably tired after 2hrs of road work. (great reference point for the HOS).

 

Skills training went well last night. 45 degree dock backing is coming along nicely.
Still a little week on the Trailer Pre-Trip.

 

Driving at night, in the snow is scary.
Just 6 inches between me and an ABF Double!!! WTF!
I was almost puckered shut.

Level of comfort:
Pre-Trip - 85%
Range/Skill - 95%
Road - 90%

On schedule for February graduation.