Passport/TWIC?

Passport wouldn't hurt to do now. You need a CDL first for a TWIC? I'm not sure.

 

No. I have a TWIC but not a CDL. I'm still researching which school/company I want to go with.

The TWIC helped me to get a job in security a few years back.

 

You do not need a CDL for a TWIC. I it is funny that they require it but few will accept it as an ID. They will ask you for your DL instead.

 

Are you a company driver, or an O/O? Let the company pay for it.

 

If you want to work for a road company that goes into Canada, get a passport. Plus, you'll be able to take interesting vacations with all that money and time off you'll have JK>

If you want to drive local in or near a city with marine or rail terminals, a TWIC will be a good thing to have. To work for one of the mega truckload companies holding a steering wheel on the interstate, you don't really need a TWIC, but it doesn't hurt. Plus, you'd already have it if you find a good a job opportunity down the line that requires it. If you get a job before you have one, see if they will pay for you to get one so you don't have to eat the fee. If you recently got the Hazmat, they use the background check you just went though I believe, so it should sail through quickly.
good luck

 

Most companies are looking for TWIC & HM. Not that they are going to load a newbie with nuclear material or high explosives. Many "common household items" - become HM loads when you're hauling 40K lbs of it.

TWIC isn't difficult - but it usually takes longer than a HM endorsement, because they have to print the cards, etc. ANYTHING the Feds have to do, takes 3X longer than the locals.

I got my TWIC, before I attended CDL School. Made my HM come back quicker when I did get my CDL and add the endorsement.

Companies also would like you to have a passport - in case you have to drop in Canada. It also serves as proof of citizenship and birth (if you spaced your birth certificate like I have). I've held a current passport for the last 25 years - so it's no biggie for me.

Rick