Considering CDL, what’s the best path for a job with no exp?

Several drivers on here use Escapees for an address in a no-tax state.

 

I recommend FedEx Ground. They accept certain schools so you might want to find that info. You can start driving in teams and then later switch over to solo driving plus the pay is good with many contractors.

 

There is no difference between going to a private CDL-A school or doing company sponsored training. Drivers have done both and been ok. You have the right mondframe in terms of getting your foot in the door by any means necessary. Don't focus on reviews of these companies because you write your own story in trucking. Anyone that gives you a yes, go for it. The first year is all about learning and getting your feet wet. Then being in California, more opportunities will open for you as you gain experience.

 

The best advice is to hit the streets and put in all the applications you can. At some point, somebody is going to call you!

 

Terminal or company doesn't have to be in the area you live in. You only have to be in the hiring area.
Most OTR companies hire in 48 states, so any driver living in one of the 48 states is also in the hiring area.

 

that a good idea . As long as you have a valid address on your license . I.E , used my brothers address on my license in cali , but lived in the truck for two years . Had no issues.

 

Disagree, it is very forgiving, this is why we have crap drivers in trucks.

To the OP, I would seriously think about entering right now, it is a carrier's employment market, so just because you have a license, does not mean there is a job there for you.

 

It depends on how often you commute to the terminal. You will burn home-time commuting to/from your home to where your truck is parked. If you come home only every 2 months, then maybe a 75 mile one-way drive is not terrible. If you are home daily then 2-3 hours of driving from off-duty to home is eating into your 10 hour break.

You have to decide what type of job, from what company, located where, for how much money, if you park at home (not necessarily good), etc., etc.

Most newbies consider ONLY Cents Per Mile and then leave the industry 3-6 months after they start working. Your results are proportional to your research.

 

@AceC --

The overall freight market has contracted rather markedly since the peak of COVID....but freight capacity has not matched that; thus, there are currently too many trucks (& drivers) chasing too little freight.

That is the general situation you will be facing if you enter the market over the next year, anyway...

To turn the tables on the above -- you need to somehow stand out from the other candidates applying for CDL jobs...in this "tight" labor market.

Suggestions, as food for thought:

• Graduate from a really good CDL school. Company-sponsored training (provided by/from a carrier) puts you at their mercy; they can kick you to the curb whenever they like/with no apparent good reason -- but you would still be on the hook for the cost of their training. This cost is...in many cases....several thousand dollars. Company-sponsored training is also rather accelerated; imagine drinking iced tea -- but from a fire hose.
• Before applying for CDL jobs -- get ALL the relevant CDL endorsements: tanker, doubles/triples, & hazmat (especially hazmat). BONUS POINTS: if you go ahead & get a TWIC card. All these endorsements/credentials make you stand out more from other applicants who don't have them, & shows prospective employers that you mean business.
• The regulatory environment in California towards trucking is messy, & it's getting worse. You will be a more attractive job candidate -- if you were in a more "friendly" location for trucking. Before getting a CDL -- consider relocation. Much better areas: Nevada, or maybe Tennessee (i.e., the eastern half). STAY OUT OF: Florida, or Maine.

Basically, to be successful -- first set yourself up for success (the above will go a LONG WAY towards that goal).

-- L