Driver Development Course?

Take a refresher course at a schooling

 

No need for a refresher if you already have a CDL A.
The DDC will be the refresher.
Having a CDL already helps you be considered for the program versus someone off the street with neither a permit/license.
From what I see, the preference is for dock workers interested in the program first, then recent CDL grads.
Impossible to get a day linehaul/road run without years of a seniority, so you will be limited to either afternoon local city or night road runs (plus some dock work due to shorter runs left for new drivers).
I believe starting pay is about $25 / hr after DDC completion. FedEx is a stickler on overtime, so don't expect a ton of hours and overtime income.

 

Hey Digman943 I have my first interview Monday for the Class A driver position in New Jersey. Any advice? I've been driving for over 10 years with smaller trucking companies.

 

If road/lone haul driver then you will be expected to work the dock/forklift.
If you only want to drive all night, probably not for a few years.

 

They just ask you scripted questions. Pretty simple interview. There’s a basic counting test they have you do.

Depending on the service centers hiring needs you will probably be on short runs to start with and working the dock 4-6 hours with the occasional via. It’s a good job, just don’t expect to be driving a lot to begin with. Best of luck!

 

Is the training mainly classroom or actual driving (or both)?

 

At least 40 hours of training on computer and book.
Then mostly driving.
3 weeks: yard, local, then highway.
Studying for DMV tests is on your time. Reading manual, memorizing pretrip.

 

Is it the same training if person already has CDL Class A (but less than 1 year of experience)?
Thanks

 

Same.
Just less likely to need an additional week of retraining especially if you fail DMV exam.
They need hazmat, tanker, and doubles endorsements.
Also keep in mind any LTL carrier will have you working dock if you go linehaul til you build up seniority.
Bunch of guys at my center working a few hours dock daily even with 10+ years seniority.
Also more opportunity at hubs to get more driving.

 

That's cool I don't mind working dock did that awhile back and had fun.
I do need to work on getting the endorsements beforehand though.