Got a class A license in CA, now what?

In 1999, I worked as a forklift driver for a freight company that asked me if I wanted to drive 53’s. I said yes and learned how to back in, go straight, turn etc etc. got all the skills I needed to get my license, but got laid off and I never got the license. 10 years later (nov of 09), I go to the dmv take my written with all endorsements and pass. I go to a school and take a 20 hr refresher course, and three days later I take my driving test and pass. Woo-hoo right? But I don’t have verifiable experience and the OTR companies want me to pay for their school before I go with a trainer like I didn’t even have a license. I have to owe them 3500 to work for them despite already being licensed? Any suggestions as to what a guy in my position should do to get a job as a class A driver? I've had NO luck with local companies hiring grads. In fact, I'm not even a grad, I'm just some guy who took a refresher course and got his license. Now I need a job.

 

US Xpress, Prime, and Stevens. Were the main three. CR England wants me lease after I take a refresher course with them for $1300. I also talked to smaller companies like MAy, FFE, Millis, and Schnieder. These were not hiring west coast grads. But that didn't matter cause i only took a refresher.

 

RickG i agree. Perhaps bev or food dist would be the way to go. Maybe start as a van driver then bobtail and then 53's. Work my way up to class A. I don't know. It's a shame to have a license and not be able to use it.