Starting over at middle age...

Well it's obvious you have to do something, so if you don't mind driving, I don't think it would hurt to at least give it a try.
It's not impossible to start out as a local driver. One of the companies you listed ( Conway ) actually has an apprenticeship program for their Local drivers, LTL.
Check with some of the smaller trucking companies in your area, you might be surprised at what you find. I started out local fresh out of school, I'm home every night and off every weekend. It can be done, but it's going to take some extra effort to be successful.
If you go into this with a half hearted effort you will end up disappointed for sure. You may very well end up OTR at first, and I can tell you it probably won't take long for you to grow tired of it. OTR is more a way of life than it is a job, for most people.
Good Luck with whatever you decide to do. Starting over is not easy, but not many things of value come easy.

 

Hello Ron, I'm Brad, and I got my CDL # age 50. Not easy, but rewarding. Manufacturing jobs had disappeared, and I tried retail management and hated it. Driving has some really frustrating times, but overall has been worth it. You need a good wife to support your decision as the time away from home is the hardest part. I got my training from a company that offered classroom and over the road training and stayed with them for almost 5 years (Millis Transfer). I found a local/regional job through word of mouth that gets me home nights and weekends. There are many companies that offer good home time, so go for it. Best Wishes to you in the new endeavor.

 

I started over again, in my 40's, it's quite the rush. I chose to go with USA, maybe not the best decision but I can manage for the 12 month commitment. At this point more than half way there. Its what make of it. And if you work, you can get allot in return. Just like anything else.

Make a decision you can live with. If you sign an agreement, know that if you decide you cannot live up to the terms, companies will hold you accountable and that will follow you. This website is a GREAT place to share views, you can learn a bunch here.

I enjoy the ride everyday.........good luck!

 

I also went through some tough times a few years back, Went and got my CDL and for the most part I love this work, (sitting on my butt holding a wheel) after driving for 4 years now, I am making decent money, Unless you figure it by the hour, LOL. It can be done, but don't expect to get rich.

 

Ron, don't listen to guys like this clown. I'm glad you have the foresight to know you need to get your BMI down. This jackwagon knows nothing about you or your spouse's ability to cope with life on the road. He may be right about being miserable for a few years but imo it's just a means to an end to get that local job. It can be done just keep your eyes on the prize and it'll be over before you know it. This forum has all the info you need to be successful as well as a good look at what you can do to fail. You can do it man, keep your head up.

 

The website "Class A Drivers" (classadrivers.com) has lists of trucking companies with separate summary pages for each (which include the States the carriers hire from). Some of the carriers' pages contain numerical ratings by truckers (pay, benefits, mileage, equipment, home-time, and "RESPECT FOR DRIVERS"). There's also a page with a side-by-side comparison chart.
The "Home-time" and "Respect" ratings are always the lowest, however, PRIME's "Respect" (and "Overall") rating is significantly higher than the other companies (the lists are NOT exhaustive, though).
Unfortunately for me, though, they don't hire south of Orlando (too far out in the Atlantic, I suppose!).
Congrats, Ron, on the weight loss! Speaking of BMI, do all the carriers have a maximum cut-off number? Does anyone know which company does (or doesn't) and what that/those number/s might be?
Lastly, what about CREDIT CHECKS for student applicants (for in-house CDL school)? I know that route makes one an indentured servant to the hiring company for typically a year (if the carrier offers reimbursement or waiver), but outside independent schooling is much more expensive, and depending on the financing arrangement, one could easily find themselves "indentured" to them for a substantial portion of their tuition for several years! [PRIME told me they do NOT check credit].
I'll stop here; "American Trucker" (Speed TV) is coming on!
Ciao

 

Welcome to the party!

 

Hello Ron,

I'm even more middle aged (well 45 to be exact) and considering a career in driving. Mind you the reasons are many however I am pretty committed to the whole idea. I have looked into attending Sage Trucking School, but am also considering the whole corporate paid training gig (Central Ref).
I must admit I am nervous about the whole thing, but at the same time very excited. I love driving and I love traveling around the country no matter where it is so to me this is an adventure.
Don't get me wrong, I see the reality of this career in that it's hard work physically and mentally, however I am a true romantic so its difficult for me not to see the romance of the road.
Good luck to you and hope all turns out for the best!!
Charlie