Entry level driver training

I've got a couple of young guys that work for us and I'm trying to get them their CDL. What I don't know about is the fairly new Entry Level Driver Training requirement. From the research I've done, I can become a trainer fairly easy myself which will allow me to train them and meet the requirements. I've been driving for going on 30 years.

I've started the online registration process to become a trainer, but it seems almost too easy. I feel like I'm missing something, what am I missing?

 

Probably the real possibility that you could not at the moment pass a CDL skills nor pre-trip examination?

 

You also will need yo devlop or purchase a curriculum that meets all the FMCSA requirements. The theory part is easy, there are many low cost online providers that do the class but you will still need a curriculum for the range and road portions along with the ability to record and report their demonstrated proficiency.

I purchased a complete package from JJ Keller for the little bit of CDL training I do each year. It has the instructor's guide, student workbook and all the information you need to present the correct information in a professional manner.

 

I checked out the JJ Keller site, but wasn’t sure. They seem always eager to sell you a bunch of crap you don’t need.

 

I don’t know why I couldn’t. Been doing it for 30 years, it would be a real problem if I haven’t figured it out by now.

 

No doubt you know what to check. The question is do you know the correct wording? For example in MI you will not get credit for saying "Checking the belt for damage" specific words have to be included like frayed, cracked, broken.

 

Frankly, it depends on your state. In Minnesota you need to be licensed (testing, a "check ride" with the 1 and only guy in the state qualified to do it, and inspection of your facilities, and probably about 20 other things Ive forgotten in the 20 years since I had my school.

But thats JUST the requirement for a SCHOOL. If all you are doing is training guys that are going to work for you (no payment or otherwise indentured servitude involved) then you dont need anything at all. Just take them in for their written test and road test and its done.

Or at least thats the way it WAS 20 years ago. No clue if that is still the way it is.

 

Yeah, I agree. JJ Keller has some good resources but their sales department is relentless. The first two books that come up on this page are what I use in my ELDT presentations when conducting CDL training. They are fairly comprehensive and will prepare the student for the exam and give a decent head start on what they need to know beyond just passing the test. And, NO, this is not an endorsement of JJ Keller. They are just a resource I use in my consulting company, and believe me if there were alternatives to them I would use them. They kill me with reseller and licensing fees as someone that uses or resells their products to my clients.

Entry-Level Driver Manuals & Newsletters | J.J. Keller

 

Exactly, It would take an "experienced" driver quite a few attempts to get it right if they really paying attention AND if the examiner took the time to explain exactly what was not done correctly. The road test as well would be tough for an experienced driver to pass. One of my jobs at a trucking school was to train experienced drivers to become instructors.. They had a LOT of bad habits to overcome to the point where they could NOT show them to the students. The students cannot be taught the things that experienced drivers have come to know as the way things are done. Of course a lot of the issues would be helped with automatic transmission, but that's just ONE experienced driver habit that would not fly with state/federal tests.

 

I can’t disagree with that. I have already printed a “cheat sheet” from the State website on the pre trip and what the examiner expects.
One of my guys have already passed the written test. I’m going to start working with him on the pre trip and getting some windshield time.
At the end of the day both of these guys will be driving for me and in my trucks, you can bet that I’m not only going to make they can pass the test, but can actually drive proficiently and safely.

I got my CDL back in the day with nothing more than a book and an old worn out Binder from the farm to take my road test on. Granted, they have gotten stricter since then, but there are vastly more resources now with the internet.