Doing CDL testing on my own, need a truck for the driving test

wulfman75 · Mar 10, 2012

CondoCruiser said: ↑

It's good he's showing initiative. But yesterday is not like today. Today you have to contend with requirements of the companies. Most companies want experience. To get experience, you have to go with a training company. To go with a training company, they require a CDL acquired through a certified truck driving school.

Not to say it can't be done, just harder. There are a handful of companies like Watkins Sheperd that require zero experience.

You're almost there Gaiphyx. Make sure you learn the regulations in your self training. There is a book of do's and don'ts. FMCSA Rules and Regulations.

http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/ is an invaluable website listing them all. It's also in book form most drivers carry with them. The more you know, the better off you will be. Drivers get in trouble everyday from lack of regulation knowledge.

You might put an ad on Craigslist. Some owner operator might help you out for the cost of fuel. It's always easier to have a truck driving friend.

If you plan on driving local, that's a whole different ballgame. I've had jobs where they ask you if you have a CDL. Okay, you're hired. My very first job, I didn't even know how to shift.

Good luck in your new career!
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Watkins Shepard may not send you out with a trainer but they still require you to go through an approved school. Plus you have to hire on within 30 days of graduation if I remember correctly.

RWoody · Jun 13, 2013

qaiphyx said: ↑

Ok, so monday I have in truck training, found a guy that will do $50 and hour, just going to practice on all the basic handling and maneuvering stuff, turns, backing up, parallel parking, etc. Thinking I will probably need about 2 hours of training there for the driven test, then I'll go take the test. I'll keep this thread updated. Thanks for the responses guys
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Do you have some contact info for this guy? I too live in Utah and am getting ready to go take the written test but need a contact that I can rent a truck from for practice and/or driving part. Thanks!

Terydin · Dec 13, 2013

qaiphyx said: ↑

Ok, so monday I have in truck training, found a guy that will do $50 and hour, just going to practice on all the basic handling and maneuvering stuff, turns, backing up, parallel parking, etc. Thinking I will probably need about 2 hours of training there for the driven test, then I'll go take the test. I'll keep this thread updated. Thanks for the responses guys
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I, too, was wondering if you still had the contact info for this guy. I have been looking online and have a friend that is looking, too. I am in Tooele, but I am willing to drive as far as Orem and Ogden to get some drive time under my belt.

wilfredbacon15 · Dec 13, 2013

Is that possible to test on your own for a CDL?

TrainerX · Dec 30, 2013

I did not pass my first attempt after spending $5000+ and being rushed through school called Sage in Endicott, NY. Now I'm being left in limbo as they won't even let me know when they can reschedule a retest. Therefore I am looking for a similar setup.

Is there anyone in the Binghamton/Endicott area that would like to rent a truck for me to take the test in? I was nervous the first time and didn't even sleep the previous night. It will not happen again.

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