Companies that welcome drivers with previous experience??

Yep, like alot of guys out there I am having a hard time finding companies that treat prior experience as relevant. I know I know, if you don't have 3,6,12 months recent OTR experience you are a rookie and don't know a thing.. I also understand it is the insurance companies that dictate this and not necessarily the trucking companies themselves.

However.......as much as I get it, I am not going to spend 6 months 'learning' how to drive again. I drove for 12 years, the last 7 with Wal Mart Private Fleet. About 1.2 million miles accident free, never had an accident, never a ticket, nothing nada zip.

Ok so some of you are rolling your eyes and some of you know where I am coming from. My question is simply this, has anyone had any contact with any companies that take prior experience and only mandate a road test or short hand holding period?

I know that a few years ago it was 12 months otr or nothing, however with CSA 2010 and the "anticipated driver shortage" I can't help but wonder if the dynamic has changed some and perhaps there is anyone out there who understand that you really don't forget how to drive, and perhaps even value experience and maturity.

So thats my question, if you feel compelled to chime in with your opinion about how I am an old timer and need to relearn how to drive, well keep that to yourself.

Thanks!

 

I left Wal Mart in 2003, that was my last full time driving job. I spent 8 years as a cop and worked overseas for the State Dept as a contractor.

I have however driven many times since then, part time or helping a O/O friend out. I never felt the least bit rusty to be honest, as soon as you sit in the truck and get the mirrors adjusted it feels like I never left.

But...... Obviously that's not what the Companies think, as most want at least several months of hand holding, a few want 60k miles with a trainer. All at about $400 a week or something like that. I would be lying if I said it wasn't partially about pride, because it is a little, but also I just don't feel like going back to teaming with another driver for months on end. I did that and really don't like being cramped in a cab with someone that long.

I have considered the possibility of buying my own truck and getting my own authority, it is my understanding that is about the only way to avoid the long 'training' program with most carriers. I believe that even with a lease option I would still need to be 'trained', is that correct? Any input on how that works would be appreciated. I have resources to buy my own rig and go that route, and feel that may allow me some level of independence above being a company driver.

Thanks for the reply Jarhead, much appreciated.