TDI - Sanford, FL

I originally planned to attend Mid-Florida Tech, but I decided I couldn't afford to be out of work for 8 weeks. With all the negative reports, I wasn't crazy about a CDL mill but I found enough positive info on TDI, and it's only 10 minutes from my house. The first recruiter I spoke to was Mr. Anderson, I'm always leary of someone that introduces themself as "Mr". From my experience, it usually means they're a bit of a #######. He promised me a starting job of $60-$70 K per year. Thankfully I was able to recognize his BS because I've read this forum. I know recruiters will say anything to get you in their school, so I decided not to let his over-promising deter me. Bottom line, driving a truck is a skill, but it ain't rocket science. I was confident TDI could give me what I need to get hired, so I plunked down my $5,000.

I just finished my first week of school and I'm pretty satisfied so far. The first day was drug testing, DOT physical, and orientation. Tues and Wed were spent preparing for the test to get the CDL learner's permit. I already had mine, so I spent the time reviewing the info and practicing my pre-trips. The rest of the week was lecture, videos, and open book tests. Finally, Friday afternoon we had our first opportunity to drive the range trucks. Yes, they're pretty beat up but they're fine for practicing backing on the range. It was great to finally climb inside a rig, hear that engine rumbling, and let the clutch out. We are done with the class room, so the next two weeks will be spent on the range and on the road.

Rex, the head instructor seems like a pretty good guy. We met Jerry for the first time Friday afternoon on the range. He's an older guy with a mouth like a sailor. He doesn't pull any punches and will tell you when you're @#$%^&* up, but he seems like a good instructor.

Let's see how much I learn in the second week.

 

Sorry for the late response. I planned to update this thread as class progressed, but you know how that goes. I finished class last Friday and now have my Class A CDL. The program was pretty good. They taught us just enough to pass the state exam and get licensed. It's very fast paced, and at times I wondered if I would get the hang of some of the backing maneuvers, but things came together for me the last few days. They seem to know what they're doing. I don't have a job yet because my plan is to move to Texas and find work hauling in the oil fields. Because of this I didn't complete any of the OTR apps that the school provided. Three of my classmates (and possibly more) had one or more pre-hires before the end of the program. As for cost, I paid $5,000 cash up front. I think the cost is around $6000 if you finance it (plus the finance charges).

Hope this helps. Let me know if you need anything else.