Just got my CDL - and my first job !

I think the hardest part for you might be the balancing act between, driving how you have been taught, and digesting all the new info your co-driver will offer. I'm sure it will be fine though. Just remember that you were taught the state approved way, and bad habits are developed easily on there own, so if you see he has one recognize it as something you do not want to learn. Congratulations
!

 

Your school said that because the mega-carriers give them kick back to send you to them. Great job man, way to take it upon yourself and think out of the box! It's not always best to follow the herd! Good luck to you and keep us posted.

 

DON'T waste your money on haz.mat,doubles,triples or tanker until you have years of experience.

 

Congrats.on your new adventure! Just some advise here learn all you can and ask questions.Also DON'T waste money on doubles,triples,tanker or haz.mat.cause you should have years of experience before thinking about doing them.

 

want to edit

 

I disagree on the hazmat endorsement. Several companies that I talked to wanted that from student hires.

Why would they risk sending a driver to oregon with a load, and risk you not being able to bring a full trailer back because you do not have hazmat?

It just makes your resume more desirable to employers.

If you decide to get it, get your fingerprints done quick ($90 here in illinois) but it takes 2-6 weeks to get the info back before I can take the test. The company I chose requires it within 30 days of becoming a lead driver.

Mikeeee

 

It wasn't a waste of money - I just took the doubles/triples and tanker tests before getting my CDL at the SOS office so the endorsements were just added to my CDL before they issued it to me.

I couldn't take the hazmat yet because my investigation is still underway (its been 4 weeks) Now, the hazmat did cost me $90 for the fingerprinting, and will cost me $10 to add onto my CDL but out of all of the endorsements the hazmat is very necessary. The guy I will be running for requires it, so I hope the investigation comes back soon - it is holding up me starting my new job.

 

Good luck to you. That is what I plan to do once I finish school. I want to find me a local job. I know contrary to what most people say, those jobs are out there. Be safe.

 

Bottom line...do what works for you. This sounds like a terrific opportunity. Some O/Os can be pretty hard-nosed because it's their equipment. But if you get one with the heart of a teacher who sees you as a willing student AND an investment, you ought to have a winning situation. Hard-nosed doesn't have to mean being an unrestrained SOB.

Good luck, and by all means, keep us updated!

 

This is bad advice. If you get your endorsements when you are issued your CDL, you don't pay extra. HazMet is a VERY good endorsement to get. Many, many common household loads require HazMet. It is not like a newbie will be hauling nuclear waster. But common items like bleach and paint require HazMet. Many companies require that their employees have HazMet for just that reason. Plus, most companies will pay extra for a HazMet load and that is mighty nice.