6years since i drove and could use some help

Well most companies require a refresher course for sure, but if you try some local companies you might fair better.. I also would suggest you look at a CDL academy to see what they offer, you might fair better..

 

The truck school where I live offers a two day refresher course for those that already have their CDL. I talked to one OTR company and they said they would take me if I did the refresher course but I haven't done it yet. GOOD LUCK DRIVER.

 

You are going to have trouble getting a local job unless you have an "in" somewhere, you are basically considered a newbie (i have same problem). Most of these companies will not hire you for purely insurance reasons, they require aleast six months to a year of "recent" experience (usually within last 2 years). (I was an o/o from 96-2000, got a good office job, have not driven since, got laid of Oct. 08) I even tried to get on as an o/o at several places, but they would not do it, because of the insurance coverage for their trailers would not allow it. So i am getting my own authority and using brokers and load boards!
Your best bet is to network with some of your old friends and see if they can get you on somewhere.
A friend of mine just graduated from a driving school (no exp.) he applied at C.R. Englund, they wanted $995 for him to attend a "training course", then he would be with a trainer for 1 or 2 months (less than $400/week i think), then he would be required to go fro 6 months as a team driver (i think if you do the (f)lease program you may get your own truck).

Good luck to you.

 

Logs have changed since you drove last, they changed in 2004 & 2005. You might read on the regulations thread unless you already know the changes

 

I could use some help too. I know how u feel.

 

It's going to get better for those without recent experience, as well as new grads. Now that CSA is showing results flushing out the unsafe drivers, employers are feeling the pinch when it comes to replacing them with safe, competent drivers. Watch for starting salaries to increase, and 'recent experience' requirements to evaporate.

 

Right !!!!!!!!!

 

Ditto for me. Thanks all