Had CDL for years, but no experience

Discussion in 'Questions From New Drivers' started by Davidtc3, Dec 17, 2024.

  1. Davidtc3

    Davidtc3 Bobtail Member

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    Dec 16, 2024
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    I’ve had my CDL for around 10 years through a municipal job back in the day but never driven trucks. Due to my circumstances I have been looking to get into trucking, so I've been doing research. Roehl contacted me today and told me that because I have no experience at all on tractor trailers, I’d have to go through their GYCDL program. After looking at some reviews I’ve seen that they have a few things I don’t like, such as having to pay them if I get terminated before the mileage commitment is finished, the inward facing cameras, etc. I already have a CDL so paying them if I get terminated seems crazy to me. I’ve looked around but haven’t been in contact with other companies yet.

    Is going through a training program like this what I should expect with most companies due to my lack of experience even with CDL in hand? My goals are to get my experience and after a year, try to find a local gig.

    I understand there are pros and cons with most companies, and sifting through different sites to find reasonable expectations has been a pain so I thought I’d post here. Thanks
     
    Chinatown Thanks this.
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  3. Chinatown

    Chinatown Road Train Member

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    Where is your location; state & nearest city/town?
     
  4. Chinatown

    Chinatown Road Train Member

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    You'll have to go through some type of training because trucking company insurance requires it. Insurance rates increase if a trucking company hires you anyway, without any training first.
     
  5. Davidtc3

    Davidtc3 Bobtail Member

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    Dec 16, 2024
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    Located in NW Georgia, about 45 minutes from Chattanooga and about an hour to two hours from Atlanta. Thanks for the prompt reply!
     
  6. tscottme

    tscottme Road Train Member

    Each employer has their own requirements. If you want to work at a specific employer you have to meet their requirements. Newbies DECIDE the industry has the same requirements for everything because they don't want to do research or contacts numerous companies. You're likey going to have to ride with a trainer for 8 weeks since you have no experience. Now is a terrible time to get into trucking. It's very slow. THERE IS NO DRIVER SHORTAGE.
     
  7. Chinatown

    Chinatown Road Train Member

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    Roehl is actually a pretty good outfit to get started with. They want you to drive for them after refresher training and not skip out like some drivers do. It's expensive to train drivers, then have them leave after the training is over.
    ~
    Here's another one to check with and has a terminal in Cartersville, GA.
    Frequently Asked Questions - KLLM Transport Services
     
  8. Chinatown

    Chinatown Road Train Member

    74,672
    169,770
    Aug 28, 2011
    Henderson, NV & Orient
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    Good location!
     
  9. Chinatown

    Chinatown Road Train Member

    74,672
    169,770
    Aug 28, 2011
    Henderson, NV & Orient
    0
  10. snowmantrucking101

    snowmantrucking101 Heavy Load Member

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    Mar 8, 2017
    Lancaster, SC USA
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    You'll need a refresher for sure. Current freight issues are going to make it extra tough. Best of luck....
     
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