Changes in the practical DOT testing...

I guess it depends on what your state requires & what kind of officer administers the test.

 

I read somewhere that some states were making changes. The feds leave this up to the state to decide. The Fed have min standards, and the states can add to these standards.

 

I'm sure you will be fine with proper training. This industry is just two important to the US economy, I doubt they will ever make it that hard for a unskilled new driver. They just want to see you can safely control the vehicle.

It sounds like that Central crew runs a tight ship, I'm sure you be well prepared to pass the skill test.

 

OH! I thought you were questioning obtaining a CDL in America. I didn't know you were in a foreign Country.

 

Here's whats happening-

California will be changing the backing skills part of the DMV test sometime in the near future, as will all the states, eventually. They will give plenty of advance notice before this happens. They jumped the gun with the release of the 2011 handbook.

There will be six backing manuevers:

100 Ft straight back
90 Degree alley dock
140 ft blindside offset
140 ft sightside offset
Sightside parallel
Blindside parallel

You will only have to perform 3 of the six manuevers, but you won't know which 3.

Also, the power unit and trailer will have to be completely in the parallel park box- no overhangs, including mirrors. Same with the offset.

From what I understand, there is a holdup because the CDL facilities in the greater LA area simply aren't large enough. They'll need 2-3 times more space than they have available to them.

Hope this helps.