CDL driver training and truck rental in GA without using a school (individual)?

There are individuals/small outfits that advertise this service.

Have you checked around ?

 

What size GVWR truck do you plan on buying? Manual or Automatic?

If it's under 26,000 lbs GVWR you don't need a CDL. Is there a trailer in the mix?

 

Here's an old one that's going up for auction might be cheap to start out with.

http://www.truckpaper.com/list/list.aspx?bcatid=27&catid=239

The only real training you need is learning to double clutch and the DOT regulations. If you stay within a 100 miles you'll be classified as a short haul driver and be exempt from many regulations.

Is there any reason why you can't test in the vehicle you purchase? Just have a CDL driver with you? You really don't need to fork out a few grand for school in this situation. You can get by with a Class B CDL.

You'll also need a DOT physical and medical card. They are usually cheapest at walk-in clinics. Google "(your town,state) DOT physical" to find the ones closest to you. $40 is the cheap end. You have to make sure the state DMV gets a copy of the medical certificate which they will require testing day.

Here's a link to the regulations you'll need to learn. Pay close attention to 382, 383, 387, 390, 392, 393, 395 and 396. There's no testing on them but you get rewarded with fines for not knowing them.

http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/rules-regulations/administration/fmcsr/fmcsrguide.aspx?section_type=A