Getting into trucking without school or training companies

Hey just thought I'd put my 2 cents here about non traditional paths to being a cdl driver. So much of this forum makes new guys think the only way is a cut and dry "go to school, pay money, get job" or "go to cre, become slave, get cdl and job" and I'm here to say that's b.s.!

Their are places that hire folks with cdls and folks just for labor. Some examples are: trash collectors, construction companies, landscaping companies, tree trimmers, movers (you get the picture) most of these outfits are small "mom and pop" type places with the owner working with everyone else on jobs. Either get a class a from a "cdl in one day" place and apply as a laborer and tell the boss you have no driving experience but would they train you while you work labor. Or, get hired first then get a permit and start training and ask to use a truck/trailer to take your cdl test. Places like this will usually be happy to work with you, they love having extra drivers around in case of a no show. After becoming an official "driver" you only need a few months experience before alot of places will take you and only stipulate you go out with a "refresher" for a week or 2. Some say 3 months, some 6, some 9. After a year most everywhere considers you a "grandfathered" cdl driver and will look past your lack of schooling. Or, stay with your local gig. These can be some sweet gigs and you may miss the comrodery of a construction type job when your an otr driver (I sure do)

What makes me such a friggin expert? This is exactly how i ended up a driver. I worked for a small moving company and got my cdl from a cdl in one day place to get a raise. Started driving class b box trucks and would practice with tractor/trailers on slow days. Finally the boss let me drive to jobs with a seasoned vet in the passenger seat. After a bit he asked if I wanted to go over the road and I said put me in coach. When the busy season slowed down I applied to a regular frieght company and they took me on experience alone. Had to go with a refresher for a week but it was no biggie. Also, most of these small companies will lie about your experience for you. As long as you leave on good terms

So there just thought I'd share that little tid bit to all aspiring drivers. Paying thousands for school or selling your soul to cre/swift is not your only options!