New Job

Discussion in 'Ask An Owner Operator' started by azsrt, Aug 8, 2011.

  1. azsrt

    azsrt Bobtail Member

    6
    0
    Aug 29, 2008
    Vancouver, Wa
    0
    This thread has lots of information from O/O providing good advice to drivers. Like many I am in the process of a career change and am moving to SE Texas from Washington St. I used to drive over the road and quit in 1995 then drove local flat bed hauling steel for 2 years before taking a non driving job. I drove for the Army hauling fuel tankers and flatbeds 2003-2005. I have kept my Class A with TX up to date including medical card and TSA fingerprint checks . My goal is to buy my own tractor and possibly a trailer but without current industry experience I have a lot to learn so I want to drive OTR flatbed for a company and get some miles and experience under my belt but after looking at several dozen companies and the requirements for drivers it appears I am below a recent driver school grad, Any ideas on refresher courses ($1900,00) will that be time and money well spent. No tickets no accidents in 20 years. What are your thoughts or should I buy a tractor (I have the $ for a decent used one) and then try to lease on to someone.
    Thanks to all who respond!
     
  2. Truckers Report Jobs

    Trucking Jobs in 30 seconds

    Every month 400 people find a job with the help of TruckersReport.

  3. Gears

    Gears Trucker Forum STAFF - Gone, But Not Forgotten.

    4,511
    3,185
    Aug 20, 2009
    0
    Even if you come on to a company with your own tractor, leasing on with them, They're going to be wanting some recent experience. You're running under their Authority. I suggest taking a refresher course and doing some miles as a company driver before you attempt anything beyond that.

    Just my two cents! Good luck with whatever you decide, keep us posted!
     
    Dryver and BigJohn54 Thank this.
  4. BigJohn54

    BigJohn54 Gone, but NEVER forgotten

    1,972
    1,599
    May 13, 2011
    SW Missouri
    0
    Gears gave you the facts. You won't find it any easier to lease a truck on than to get a driving job. They still want recent experience.

    At least if you go the driving route you might find some companies that will take you with a refresher course. Make sure you find at least a couple that will before spending the money for the refresher course.

    Many of the starter companies may want full training.
     
    Gears Thanks this.
  • Truckers Report Jobs

    Trucking Jobs in 30 seconds

    Every month 400 people find a job with the help of TruckersReport.