Does anyone go straight into team driving as a new driver?

I think some companies allow that as once I was at a shipper and two young guys couldn't back into a tight dock to save their lives. I helped them since they almost hit my truck numerous times and were struggling for a long time. I had to teach them how to turn the wheels to get into the door. Both of them were completely confused, it was obvious they were both new and team driving.

 

I drove team right from the start and loved it. Made good money, got home much more often than solo guys and had more dedicated runs to work with. Got a new truck every year. I teamed with my good friend though and most likely wouldn't team with someone else. I would jump right back on a truck with him today if I lost my job. It's not easy and you both have to give a little.

Almost every team that's successfully stayed together for any decent length of time knew each other before, at least that I've known personally. There were 2 or 3 other teams that were friends before they got in a truck together at our company. Everyone else would only last a couple months. Husband/Wife teams obviously stayed together sometimes, but that's not what you're asking about.

 

Actually, you can't do anything but become a team driver when just starting out. Many companies prefer team drivers. Make up your decision about becoming a team driver or not while driving with your trainer. One of my trainers helped me make the decision to drive solo when he fell asleep behind the wheel.