New here, got a few questions regarding trucking and CDL permits.

Hey all. Just joined up. I'm in the process of studying for my CDL permit test and have a few questions.

First off, I'm wondering what all is contained in the CDL Permit Test (I live in Virginia if it matters). I'm taking my time with the manual due to all the condensed information and I'm wondering it the permit test just contains general knowledge or if it contains questions about all types of commerical vehicles and endorsements.

I feel as if I already have a leg up in some aspects, I'm an Automotive Tech graduate who decided against pursuing due to the price of tools and ever-changing technology in today's and tomorrow's engines. I'd basically start out at 8-10 an hour on a lube rack and not even have enough money to pay for health insurance after making payments on tools and ASE testing. The first section about checking vehicles for safety hazards and making sure all systems are optimal was like deja vu.

My other questions is concerning how much does having and A/T endorsement kill your chances of finding work? I know the M/T's are stronger and give you greater range of control over the vehicle, thus are mainly used. My main issue is have little experience with a M/T other than getting it into first and second with a customers vehicle on the way the shop. The larger/torque-ier engines give me a bit of trouble due to the heavier clutches and having a smaller "sweet spot", between releasing the clutch and it fully engaging. I also have very little experience in downshifting/rev matching as I'm used to just popping it into neutral and coasting it in.

My last question regards mental illness, both for DOT physicals and medical needs. I do have Schizo-Affective Disorder which is basically schizophrenia and and manic bi polar disorder. I am stable and have a higher cognitive functioning than most people with my diagnosis but I require doctors visits every 1-3 months and medications chock full of powerful sedatives that must be taken the same time everday, so I don't see long haul/OTR trucking as a reasonable career path. Do severe mental illnesses DQ the govt from issuing you a license or is it on a case by case basis?

Thanks in advance.

 

Yes I've had my drivers license for 10 years now.The meds take a few hours to kick in and have to be taken at night. 12 hour days is no issue as long as I'm home before midnight to take my meds. My Psych is ok with me driving and I made to choice to avoid long haul trucking. I'm just wondering if the govt will bench me for my diagnosis.

 

Should be fine. My P-doc requested my driving record and just sent out my DMV medical review I have to do bi-yearly to keep my drivers license. Unless he writes on my medical report or DMV paperwork needed for CDL's I've been hallucinating or been acting unreasonably I'll be ok. I can usually give him a call if things get rough and get a temp increase in med doses to smooth things out until I get back to normal. Haven't been hospitalized in over 6 years, only due to being laid off and losing insurance/couldn't afford meds.

We'll see.