When do you stop being a “new driver”?

I say after about 2 years I didn't feel "new" anymore. A professional driver told me when if the trucks jerks or shakes when driving, you're doing something wrong. I believe thats a good way to tell when you are professional because that doesn't just happen. It takes effort all the time to control the truck. Of course if you have some slack in the fifth wheel it doesn't make it any easier......

 

When you get home for a break, and wish you were back out on the road.

 

Came here to say this, but was beaten to it. I still get out, look, check and double check valves, seals, dog ears, hoses, tires, etc. I've caught a couple of chuckles on the cb getting back into the truck "Look at this newbie". Little do they know...how little. I don't want to be that guy standing at the front of someone else's truck exchanging info because I didn't see something there. Always strive to be the new guy.

 

If you work for one of the Mega's your an old hand after 6 weeks. Ready to start training people.

 

usually around Labor Day, but by Columbus Day for sure.

i did 48 years, i learnt "new" things every trip out and back.

but in the general scope of things, to me, i'd say at least 2 years minimum. back years ago, when i started out, 10 years was thought of to be an "old hand".

 

I'm going on 4 years and I'm STILL the new driver everywhere i go.
Take it in stride, not being a know it all has allowed me to soak up alot of knowledge and plenty of ppl i met have gone out of their way to help me

 

I guess that is why accident rates start to spike again with drivers with around 5 years experience,
They get too comfortable and confident, and get complacent, then start making mistakes again.

 

Oh, and you can consider yourself a new driver if you have never delivered in a cave.

 

When you can eat lukewarm flying j pizza without the consequences.