CDL Programs.

I'm an FNG so I don't know who the best companies are but what's helped me in my search (I'm also more than likely going to go with a company sponsored program) is to realize that the sooner I get through the school selection process, and actually in to training, then the sooner I can get out on the road with my CDL and get my experience.

From what I've been reading, many of the companies that offer CDL training are not companies that drivers tend to stay with for more than a year or two. For those who are wanting a company sponsored CDL school, it seems to be about the second company you go to work for, not the first.

After my CDL, I'll be focusing on CPM and miles and I am mentally preparing myself to push through a slow first year in the likely event that I can't get those with my first company.

 

I would look into any grants offered by the state you live in. Here in Illinois, there was one that a lot of students used to pay for training at the school I went to. You of course have to complete some paperwork and there are strings attached (simple things like the school verifying that you are showing up and completing your training) but so long as you get your CDL, all is good. With a grant you also won't have to pay it back or be stuck with a specific company. I hope more states offer those types of grants because it is a way better use of taxpayer money than just straight welfare.