I am 36, is it too late?

If you have a BP issue, and are on a strict diet--you might at some point consider doing either tanker or even flatbed duty.

You're still young enough to seriously consider those two options.

With either of those, you'll be outside the truck A LOT more--and the job will require you to burn more calories and help you keep weight off.

You might later even be able to come off the BP medication...because of a better diet, and your job requirements.

--Lual

 

Diabetes is a pretty common obstacle for the DOT medical card. In the past, but not now, injecting insulin meant no DOT medical. Now certain types of insulin dependent diabetes can still pass the DOT exam.

 

Do you want to run the roads or stay close to home?

 

I quit 3 packs a day cigarettes by going cold turkey. Nothing else worked.

 

Lightly mention to any doctor or nurse you have White Coat Syndrome, or anxiety about having your BP measured. This usually causes them to test a few times before they conclude your BP is too high. Also, medical protocol, requires you sit quietly & comfortably for 5 minutes before BP is measured. They usually like to measure BP the instant you enter the exam room while talking to you. You may have to insist you be undisturbed for 5 minutes.

if you are obviously heavyweight they may be quick to fail you on BP. Also, you have no problem sleeping, no sleep apnea, unless you or insurance has a record of being treated for that. The doctor is not your health partner. He's the guy that can and will take away your job if you give him a reason.

 

Every tanker driver wishes he switched from van/reefer to tanker sooner.

 

@Lunatic Fringe listed these 4 options. These will get you to the best pay in a shorter period of time. The application process can be lengthy, but if you're patient it will be worth it.
Old Dominion Truck Driver Training Program

YRC Driver training

FedEx Freight Driver Apprentice - City

ABF Driver Development Program - City