How Do I Start??????

Discussion in 'Motor Carrier Questions - The Inside Scoop' started by notch, Apr 30, 2007.

  1. notch

    notch Bobtail Member

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    Apr 30, 2007
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    i'm a very unhappy lube tech looking to begin a carreer as a driver. Can anyone tell me a good way to get started? I've heard that there are companies that will pay you to train. Is this true? Or do I need to pay for training and obtain my liscense on my own?
     
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  3. devildice

    devildice Light Load Member

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    Nov 29, 2006
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    It's always recommended to pay for your schooling on your own. It gives you more freedom to pick and choose what company you want to sign on with. Unfortunately, not everyone can afford the tuition. If that is the case, then there are some companies that offer CDL training in exchange for usually a 1 year contract. Leave before the year is up and you might owe them the inflated cost for the training.
     
  4. Burky

    Burky Road Train Member

    Basically, there are a couple of ways to enter the industry. Probably the most common one is to go to work for what we refer to as a "training company" or a company that has taken the time to put together a program for training and hiring beginning drivers. In return for a contract you sign agreeing to work there for a minimum period of time, you receive their training and support until you are out on the road and complete the length of time speciifed, usually 1 year.

    Many of these companies are not the most desired jobs on the road, which is why they have to go to these lengths to attract drivers. They are a suitable method of getting trained and qualified, and you can use them to your advantage if you approach the issue realistically. It may not be the most enjoyable working year of your life, but once you have it in the books, you have a transferable skill you can take to a better company, one that doesn't hire beginners.

    A second option is to go to a private CDL school, and train there. There are many of them available, and their quality can run the gamut from excellent to horrible. If you find one, then you can come on here and see if someone has been through there and what they have to say. They can be expensive, and some cost more than they are worth. There are state aid programs that can help with the costs, and it's worth checking in with the state Jobs office to see what is available there.

    In many areas, the local community college system may run a program, and these are usually top notch and concentrated on getting you trained completely, vice just rushing you through. However. they are a longer slower program and you need to devote more time to them, and many people can't afford the time and financial issues that length of time brings up.

    Which option you choose is going to depend on your own financial situation and how much effort and time you can devote to getting a license. Obviously, the college method will probably provide you with the best training, but once you get the minimum, by any of the methods, you will end up polishing your skills on the road.
     
  5. notch

    notch Bobtail Member

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    Apr 30, 2007
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    how much would you say a beginner would make in the first year, 5 years, ????
     
  6. Tip

    Tip Tipster

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    Mar 18, 2006
    ON STRIKE
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    Burky's post pretty much covers it, Notch. What you'll make will depend on a few things. Your company, whether you survive the first year at the training company, etc. Also, if you have any accidents, that will affect your first year's income. It's hard to make money in driving if you've been canned from your first job due to an accident.

    And then there is DAC. Do you know what DAC is? If you don't, you need to drop everything and go find out what that is exactly. Don't decide to get into OTR driving until you do find out. If you decide you can live with DAC, then move to the next step.
     
  7. CNKWhalen

    CNKWhalen Bobtail Member

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    Mar 29, 2007
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    Notch... Might be able to give you insight a lil. I don't have enuf posts to private message you but I just went thru school and there would be alot to tell you. I'm now on the road and truly loving it. Had the same concerns as you less than 2 mos ago. Read my other posts. We (hubby and I) went thru company pd training. If you can private message me w/ ur email addy I'll fill you in. For now I must be off to bed... goin out in 10hrs for 2days.. I'll be home Sat. afternoon & Sunday to reply to you. Then i'm off to go w/ my otr trainer for like 3 weeks.
     
  8. buck and a half

    buck and a half Mr. Miles & Miles with Many Smiles

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    Aug 11, 2006
    madison,me
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    Okay,ya listening,drive around your neighborhood for a trucking company in your town or as close as possible to you. Come right out and ask them,like man are you looking for a lube person to learn big rigs,I have always loved trucks and I am currantly a lube tech,I would like to learn all i can,to lube drive,get my cdl etc. Is there any way I can join you folks here and have my dreams come true. I believe if you talk face to face you will be happy with the answer you will get. try my advice,be truthful,the industry is dying to hire folks like you to do the job right. Lube seems simple,but,you know it has to be done and done right,apply what you know to driving and you will be fine,keep us posted. Remember a dream is a dream,only if you want it to remain a dream,really,really try and it becomes reality.
     
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