How do you know which school?

Discussion in 'Trucking Schools and CDL Training Forum' started by azjerry, Dec 8, 2008.

  1. azjerry

    azjerry Bobtail Member

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    Nov 26, 2008
    Mesa, AZ
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    Hi
    I want to go to a truck driving school, but there are so many, how do you know which one to go to? There are a few in my area, Sage, Roadmaster, Southwest truck driving and AIT American instute of Technology.
    How do I know which is better, is there a standard to judge them against?
    I so want to be a truck driver, but I don't want to waste my money. They run anywhere from $4000.00 to $9000.00. HELP!
     
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  3. Lilbit

    Lilbit Road Train Member

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    Here's one thread that may help you as far as Sage.

    Sage Technical Services

    You could also try a search on some of the others you mentioned while you wait for posts here. The search feature is at the top of the page.
     
  4. azjerry

    azjerry Bobtail Member

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    Nov 26, 2008
    Mesa, AZ
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    Thanks Lilbit. I've talked to a couple of these schools and it feels like they are backed by some trucking companys and they are pushing those companys. Is that common? Or are they trying to get the student prehired before they graduate?
     
  5. Lilbit

    Lilbit Road Train Member

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    There may be some connection between the schools and the companies. I'm not exactly sure. The more drivers that can get pre-hires before they even graduate, the better it looks for the school. That's all marketing tactics there . . . '90% of our students are hired before graduation' type stuff that looks good on paper.

    Just be sure to research any company before making a decision. There are threads here on a lot of companies, especially the big ones.

    One thing to remember about the trucking company recruiters is that they are like military recruiters - they'll promise you the moon, stars, and anything else they can!
     
  6. RickG

    RickG Road Train Member

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    With more experienced drivers losing jobs people need to think very carefully before investing in the school . Schools are now turning out more students than there are jobs for and the situation will get worse as more people with other careers lose their jobs and decide "Oh well , I can always get a job driving a truck . "
     
  7. jeepskate99

    jeepskate99 Road Train Member

    I am doing the same thing. I chose a school that offers a good amount of behind the wheel time and emphasizes backing maneuvers. I am taking a 320 hour course that I think should leave me well prepared for my time with a trainer. It is expensive, 7800 for everything including filing fees, books, and road tests, but it seems better than just doing the bare minimum to get a license. They have simulators for every transmission know to man and a great obstacle course for backing. The school I chose is also PTDI certified and that seems to make a difference to some of the better companies out there.

    The school is NTTS in Buffalo, NY.
     
  8. azjerry

    azjerry Bobtail Member

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    Nov 26, 2008
    Mesa, AZ
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    Is this right? I was excepted by Roadmaster driving school. Schooling is $6495.00, and they want $400.00 before I even arrive than they want $150.00 when I show up. Plus 10.00 for the permit, 60.00 for the license, 10.00 Haz-mat, 95.00 Haz-mat background check, 30.00 MVR/CDLIS credit bureau 20/20 criminal report, 40.00 drug screen and 40.00 DOT physical. =$835.00 more. Is this normal? I would think for $6495.00 that would all be part of the cost.
     
  9. azjerry

    azjerry Bobtail Member

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    Nov 26, 2008
    Mesa, AZ
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    Well I'm going with Southwest truck driver training in Phoenix Az. It's about $1500.00 cheaper than Roadmaster and no extra cost after I start. The people their are nice and made me feel welcome when I went to check the school out. I start on Dec. 29, Can't wait.
     
  10. jeepskate99

    jeepskate99 Road Train Member

    Doesn't sound right anyhow. You can't get hazmat until you have a CDL. Federal law and all. How long do they keep you in school?
     
  11. azjerry

    azjerry Bobtail Member

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    Nov 26, 2008
    Mesa, AZ
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    The fee's were as you went along but still above the cost of school. It is a 3 week school.
     
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