Hey Guys & Gals, I've spent a couple hours today browsing around the site and am very impressed with the wealth of information in these forums. I decided 2 weeks ago that I was going to try and get my Class A CDL, if nothing more as a back up. However, ever since receiving my CDL Learner's Permit my mind has changed drastically. I do want to drive for a living, I feel that I can provide a better life for my (future) family with trucking. However, I'm at a stage in my life (I know most start OTR) that I absolutely do not/can not go OTR. I've called around to a few companies that haul local and have gotten mixed reactions. Some say absolutely not, some say we would be interested but there are no openings right now. Anyway, to the point. I don't know any O/O's. So i'm curious how the guys that get their CDL on their own without going to trucking school find a truck to practice in for the DMV road test? Is it possible to rent a road tractor somewhere? Or any suggestions? Thanks so much for your time and advice guys & gals.
Yes, an owner operator friend would be useful. You can rent truck and trailer, but would need to nail the test in one shot, or it could get expensive. Have you had experience driving tractor trailer? Put your location on your profile, it helps.
Location added. I've had very little experience driving a tractor trailer. Have driven them around the lot at work, in and out of the shop. Have never driven one on the road.
I have a good friend that's willing to ride with me and help me out if I can figure out how to get a truck. I tried google to see if there were any places around me to rent, however didn't come up with much.
For what it's worth, I'm in the same position. I have the money to buy the truck go to a private driving school, but the first years insurance was incredible, plus few companies will hire you. So I start next month with one of the companies for the first year, to get the experience which is so very important I think. good luck to you
