Does CDL School count as "recent experience" and replace the need for training

Discussion in 'Experienced Truckers' Advice' started by insipidtoast, Jan 30, 2023.

  1. insipidtoast

    insipidtoast Heavy Load Member

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    Can anyone confirm if you've been out of trucking for a few years, and sign up for a course at a truck driving school can you use this to replace the training period that most companies will want to put you through?
     
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  3. Moosetek13

    Moosetek13 Road Train Member

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    Probably not.
    The training period is not only about driving but learning the ways of the company.
     
  4. Just passing by

    Just passing by Road Train Member

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    You will face new training every time you change jobs. It's the nature of the beast
     
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  5. kemosabi49

    kemosabi49 Trucker Forum STAFF Staff Member

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    For many companies, the CDL school is to get a driver to pass his tests and get his CDL. Then they go out with a company trainer to learn how to actually drive. Unfortunately, there are a whole lot of these so-called "trainers" that only have a few months driving experience themselves.
     
  6. snowmantrucking101

    snowmantrucking101 Heavy Load Member

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    That's a big fat NEGATIVE...
     
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  7. sevenmph

    sevenmph Road Train Member

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    How about noooooooooooooo
     
  8. bad-luck

    bad-luck Road Train Member

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    No, CDL School only teaches the basics to pass the test. Trucking is a different ballgame entirely.
     
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  9. insipidtoast

    insipidtoast Heavy Load Member

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    That company specific stuff can be taught in a day or two at a company classroom. "Remembering" how to drive a truck can be accomplished on one's own dime elsewhere.
    If this is not the case, then why do trucking schools offer "refreshers"?
    I think one of these refreshers plus a road test at the new company should be enough. At least I'll be using that as selection criteria when narrowing down options. Probably will be able to find a company that doesn't care either way. Just road test and go.
     
  10. insipidtoast

    insipidtoast Heavy Load Member

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    Yeah but we all know three months of recent experience trumps 3 years of clean record experience. :rolleyes:
     
  11. Moosetek13

    Moosetek13 Road Train Member

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    Yes, they can run you through a few classes on things, but when you get out on the road things can be different.
    It is better to gain some knowledge from an experienced driver, at least for a week or two.

    And yes, that is only my opinion.
     
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