How many PTI/Driving hours to pay for to pass?

I'm ahead of the curve for most new drivers as I have my CLP, pristine MVR, and 2.5yrs of commercial driving experience (Uber) in the challenging NYC metro area. Mechanics intrigues me and learning all the parts and functions has been a joy. I know exactly which company best fits me and they're an automatic fleet.

Schools by me have pricing based on "packaged" hours of driving training. Minimums are 8hrs going up to 160+ hrs, from $800-$4,500. I may be stuck paying out of pocket (checking out my state WIA options Thursdays) and am cash strapped. I don't want to pay hundreds of dollars for training when I will be getting paid to learn with a company trainer and driving an automatic.

How long did it take you folks to get a hang of shifting and backing enough to pass the test? I'm not too worried about the pre-trip as j just need to learn the language they want to hear and I live across from a 24hr 5 bay diesel mechanic who'll let me practice my inspection skills.

My plan was to do 15hrs with the school that only does one on one driving and see if they'll let me add hours if I/they feel it's needed. Also on a side note is there someplace I could do a title loan that isn't a complete rip off?

 

Melton running flatbed. Considering the going rate is $80-$110/hr for training here I'm happy to spend a few hours shopping and getting advice for free

 

I don't plan on testing or training in an automatic. Uber gives good experience for wierd sleep schedules, driving in hazardous weather, and extreme defensive driving. Lots of the habits I see preached by trainers and YouTube I already have from Jersey/NYC driver's, bicyclists, drunken 3am zombies, and running a tight, safe vehicle.

I don't care what anyone says, shippers and consignee's are going to be easier to deal with than four cackling 22yo girls screaming for Snapchat stories, puking, and needing three stops while being too drunk to remember where they live without a 5 minute interrogation.

 

Already talked with Melton a few times and they hire here. They have hired from all schools I'm considering. Asked the schools and Melton sends recruiters to them and they confirmed they have grads there.