new driver advice and direction needed

May as well forget that because no company can insure you without formal training.

Do it the easy way and apply to companies that will train you with their own CDL training program.

Where do you live?

 

You're in luck; contact Earl Henderson Trucking and they will probably have you in training Monday morning.You already have a CDL so you're way ahead of the game. Their school is in Troy, IL and they provide hotel room and 3 meals a day.

 

You'll probably be the only driver there that already has a CDL and driving experience; piece of cake for you.

 

I don't know what their policy is, but seems like a waste of time studying for CDL and learning how to drive when you already have that covered. Still need to learn logging and some other things the insurance company will require.

Take some work gloves,flashlight,sleeping bag, pillow,coffee travel mug.
Pack your stuff in a flexible duffle bag because a suitcase is too difficult to store in the truck.
If money is tight, take some Ramen Noodles and instant coffee for between meals. You'll get the furnished 3 meals a day while in Troy, but after you hit the road the extra instant food will come in handy. Truck stop microwave use is free.

 

At the very least, I'd be of the thinking that you'd still be sitting in a classroom to view a few videos, maybe take some tests. Most likely too, you'll be given a road test. You may very well have to go out with a trainer for x amount of days, rather than a few weeks like ordinary students.

Good luck.