So after a lot of research here, and going back and forth over it, I enrolled in a truck driving school. Now let me say this from the get go, I had a little money saved, paid for school out of pocket, and i'm in California. your situation might be different, I'm just throwing out what I would do different from my experience for people on the fence about it, or what not. If you find it useful, great, if not, carry on.
First, get your medical card. If you can't get that, none of the other stuff matters.
Second, study for any endorsements you want, or think you will need, especially Hazmat. Get the background check for Hazmat done before getting your permit, then you can take your permit test, and all endorsements at the same time, they are easy. I used the study questions on this site, and a phone app, called CDL prep. You will pass them. I used Universal enroll for Hazmat check, super easy, cost about $86.00 bucks, but it can take from one week, to a month, depending on the bad stuff you've done.
Third, start applying for jobs as soon as you start school. let them no an estimated completion date! Some of the Megas have a long hiring process , so if your tight on money, get them started A.S.A.P., if that's how your leaning.
I say this because I didn't do it this way, and when your savings is running out, it can become stressful. Don't count on a supposed "driver shortage", and think you'll have a job the day after you pass your driving and skills test. Insurance companies dictate the local job's ability to hire you, and the Mega's take some time with all the bodie's they are churning through! Also, apply everywhere! Listen to @Chinatown! I just got the call this evening to show up Monday morning to start training for a local gig that Chinatown recommended, even though they wanted a year experience.
Anyway, I got beer's to drink, and dirt bikes to ride tomorrow. I hope this help's somebody out that's thinking about making the leap. I probably could have shaved 3 weeks or so off if I had done it this way from the get go, and when money get's tight, that can be a noticeable difference. Safe travels!
A little advice from my experience
Discussion in 'Questions From New Drivers' started by Twistin' throttles, Feb 23, 2019.
-
-
Trucking Jobs in 30 seconds
Every month 400 people find a job with the help of TruckersReport.
-
-
Trucking Jobs in 30 seconds
Every month 400 people find a job with the help of TruckersReport.
