Please Help! Good/Fair $ Trucking schools in SO.CAL?

I have been taking notes on different schools and companies. I recall something about Maverick having all automatic trucks. Something you may want to look into. Goodluck!

 

I am currently attending Dootson in Arcadia and have Charlie as my instructor. Took the 3 day permit class they offer and passed all 3 of my CDL A tests PLUS Hazmat, Tanker, and triple/double endorsements the first time. I love the one on one instruction also. I should have my cdl in about 3 weeks, have applied to several 'starter' companies already, just waiting for some call backs....

 

Mojave, who you going to orientation with?

 

SWIFT on 7/31

 

Can someone tell me what Dootson charges for thier program? Its not listed on the website.

 

Dootson is pay as you go OR they have some 'package' plans you can purchase.

The cheapest 'package' plan is $875 and includes (10) 1/2 hr driving lessons (so 5 hrs total driving) with one on one instruction. It also includes permit classes and pre-trip classes, as well as paying for your DOT physical, drug screen, and driving test at the DMV.
The next package is $1105, the only difference from the above package is you get unlimited tries at the DMV.
The last package is $1441, this includes everything from the $1105 package plus 7 more lessons, or 3 1/2 more hrs of driving.
You can also purchase all of the above options 'a la carte'.
The individual lessons (one-on-one) are $48 per 1/2 hr. It is really up to you how much you pay, as it depends on how fast you can learn.

All of the mega-carriers recruit out of Dootson - May, Swift, Werner, Schneider, as well as alot of local companies here in SoCal.

I chose the $875 package, I took the permit classes and passed all 6 of my DMV tests the first time (CDL general knowledge, Air Brakes, Combination Vehicle, Hazmat, Tanker, and Triple Double). I have taken 3 lessons of my 10 so far and have learned straight-shifting (not double clutching yet) and straight line backing. I plan to take the pre-trip classes next week.

If you need anymore info feel free to PM me.

 

If you want more info you can also pm me. The short answer is it all depends on you. They do not schedule for DMV until they think you are ready. They also do not milk it. They just want to make sure you have a good chance of passing. I ended up with a private DMV because I was the only person testing that Friday. I think the additional time driving the truck to DMV was good for me.

 

Thanks for the detailed responses. I am still doing my research so this info helps a lot. One more question; say I signed up with Dootson and went to school full time starting Monday. How long would it take to have my licence in my hand? (given I dedicated my time 100% to obtain the CDL)

 

It all depends on how often you can take driving lessons with your instructor. Some instructors are very popular and only have lessons available at certain times and days. You get one instructor assigned to you, which I feel is great, you build up a relationship with that instructor.
It will also depend on your ability to learn.

 

I understand. Say I get my 5 hours in and I picked up the information well. Is it possible to get it in 30-45 days?