Can I use the truck I have?

Here's info on how to get your own authority . http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/registration-licensing/online-registration/onlineregdescription.htmThere's a lot to it . You will be your own employee and have to have a driver's file on yourself . http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/rules-regulations/administration/fmcsr/FmcsrGuideDetails.aspx?menukey=391
You'll also need to be part of a random drug testing pool .
Many O/O's go to OOIDA to simplify the process .

 

Most locals I know use their pool out of the local trucking association.

Ours in the Midwest truckers association.

 

I really appreciate you guys taking the time to help me decide if this is something that might work. Thanks for your info so far. Losing my job (non-trucking)was kind of expected considering how the place was being run but this is scary being out of work with all you hear about how hard jobs are to find. So I thought if I could make my own job it might be better. I know this truck I have is not ideal by any stretch. I drove for Iowa Beef Express years and years ago, so long ago it doesn't matter much anymore. I had a class A then. And have always been driving or pulling something, all non CDL.

 

RickG- Thanks for the links. I went to them and looked. Alot to digest. Thank you.

 

It isn't as complicated to get your own authority as you might think. If you do it yourself all you need do is fill in the blanks and pay a $300 filing fee. It usually takes from 3-6 weeks to get your authority back once filed. OOIDA can act as your registered agent at no charge if you are a member. Their regular membership is $45/year, but during December and January they usually have a discount rate of $25/year. If it is something that you are considering, I would start by checking insurance rates once you decide what you want to do. Progressive is the only insurance company that I know that will cover inexperienced drivers. Unless you have experience within the last three years they consider you as not having experience. As an alternative, you might think about getting your CDL on your own and checking with some of the expedited carriers to see if you can work as a company driver or as a driver for an owner operator. It would give you some experience and an income while you decide which direction you may want to pursue.