Driving schools

Schools that are certified by PTDI(Professional Truck Driving Institute) are the best, as far as best job, only you can tell that. Just read several different areas of this site, and make up your own mind.

 

I went to smith and solomon. Lousy instructors but i got to use their truck. I had been driving b class with equipment trailer so i guess you could say i was self taught

 

I just finished and received my CDL with a HASMAT and Tanker endorsement this week. I researched and located a school in North Carolina, Isothermal Communty College, Spindale, NC. Several things that made them stand out for me were: They pre-screen requiring a 10 driving history, Criminal Background, DOT Physical and Drug Test before they accept you or your money. Additionally, it is all one-on-one training meaning no sharing of trucks or driving time with 2-3 other students. They are a Sage school and PTDI Certified.

They have been around for a long time and attract students from all over the country. We had several from out of state (Arkansas and Ga) thet received recommendations from other drivers/grads. Was a great experiance for me with some of the best teachers and trainers one could ask for. Do your research and compare notes. In addition, I made several life-long friends I will stay in touch with.

They have made arrangments with multiple hotels and one small resort with cabins for "dirt cheap" places to stay. Was a really good choice for me but also the only school I have attended so I can not compare first hand to other schools.

Hope that helps

 

Plus, you could pick up a rock and "hit" the school from where you live. Lucky you! Call Van or Pam and pay them a visit before you decide.

 

Congratulations and good luck . Getting your CDL is less than half the battle . Getting hired , getting a truck , and getting good miles are the next steps . Keep us posted .

 

If I were you I would go for all of the good things that have been listed and try to get all that in a community college. That's what I did and haven't regreted it.

 

Schools, cheapest, WIA or state assistance program, technical school/community college.
Companies, whichever one you think will satisfy you.
Good Luck.

 

If you have been in the trucking industry as I think you stated in a previous post, you may have problems getting WIA or any assistance. They may not consider you to be a "displaced person" but it's very much worth a try. I am in Ohio and couldn't get it because of my work history in trucking.

 

MTC Truck Driver Training in St. Louis MO was a good one for me. They get you pre-approved for your choice of about 5 companies before you go and then, ***as long as you do good*** get you out of there in 2 weeks and into your trainers truck without any delay. They have lousy food that they bring in everyday but atleast they feed you for the 6000 dollars you have to pay. If you have the money the best route is to pay for it yourself because you can pay 1500 instead of 6000. Very good instructers, half decent trucks, normally Freightliner classics for road driving and cab-overs and old garbage for yard driving. Best of luck