Starting Late in Life

Discussion in 'The Welcome Wagon' started by econnor65, May 28, 2025.

  1. econnor65

    econnor65 Bobtail Member

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    New guy here. Retired soldier with twenty years in business development in the DoD market. I am done.

    Plan is to get a CDL and go over the road for a few years. I passed my DOT physical last week. Studying to take the test for a learner permit. On the fence about whether or not to pay a local school or go a a paid company training.

    I live in Fayetteville, NC. Local school is TransTech, $4,900 and five weeks, or going through Schneider CDL Apprenticeship Program in Charlotte, NC.

    My personal driving record has a speeding ticket (64 in a 55) and two improper equipment citations within the last five years. No DUI or reckless offenses ever.

    Question: Will the speeding ticket and two improper equipment violations affect my ability to get hired?
     
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  3. Chinatown

    Chinatown Road Train Member

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    How old are the tickets?
    What are the "improper equipment" violations.
    The 9 mph over speeding ticket isn't too bad.
     
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  4. econnor65

    econnor65 Bobtail Member

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    The speeding ticket was issued June 2024 and final disposition was Jan 2025. The improper equipment violations are for 'Speedometer'. Both in 2024.
     
  5. econnor65

    econnor65 Bobtail Member

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    So, are these going to be an issue with getting hired?
     
  6. Iamoverit

    Iamoverit Road Train Member

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    You won't know until you start applying. Every carrier has a different tolerance level but if you care about being a professional driver I suggest you learn to obey the law. As a former soldier you shouldn't need that spelled out for you.
     
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  7. Concorde

    Concorde Road Train Member

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    No
     
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  8. Concorde

    Concorde Road Train Member

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    Sage Truck Driving School in Rocky Mount, NC.
    You won’t find anyplace better.

    The 1.5 +/- commute is worth it or find a cheap place to crash for a few weeks. Start to finish should only be 4-5 weeks.

    Tuition is right around $5,300 and worth every dollar. Training is all one on one.
    Well known top notch accredited school.

    I’m guessing that you qualify for free tuition since you’re a Veteran.

    Link to their website..

    https://sageschools.com/
     
  9. econnor65

    econnor65 Bobtail Member

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    Thank you for the candid answer and the driving school recommendation.

    I used up my VA college benefits years ago, so this will be funded out of pocket. Sage Trucking School looks very attractive.
     
  10. Concorde

    Concorde Road Train Member

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    I went to Sage in Fort Pierce, FL
    Was through Indian River State College.

    There’s a lot to learn In very little time so the one on one training sure helps. Can’t imagine what it would’ve been like trying to share a truck with a bunch of other students.

    You’ll go home tired and still have to study at home a couple hours each night.
     
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  11. GoneButNotForgotten

    GoneButNotForgotten Heavy Load Member

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    While looking at schools don't forget to look at Johnston Community College truck driver training. Been around forever, gives great training (8 Weeks?), and very affordable for in- state tuition.
     
    lual Thanks this.
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