First time CDL holder looking for tips and tricks.

Already said but bears repeating: drive calm, signal for at least three seconds before you start changing lanes (and ALWAYS signal lane changes!), never tailgate.

Never leave the yard without having done your trip planning. Look at the satellite view of your destination, get a good idea of all the turns, you can do Google Maps street view to get a clear idea about what you’ll find when you get there. And I use Google Maps, but I also use the Rand McNally Motor Carriers Atlas to confirm that the route Google recommends is truck friendly, and if it isn’t I adjust the Google route using intermediate stops.
Plan your fuel stops, plan where you want to sleep and have a few alternates in mind just in case.

 

Not sure if it's been mentioned, but do try to rush anything, better to go slow and do it well and be safe, then to #### up.