So i am finally approved to start PRIME on feb 4th, BUT....

I've never attended Prime school but its all alike far as training goes.You need to throw the negativity away and start thinking positive.You can do it.Everyone has fears and then wonder what was I scared about this isn't bad.Shifting,remember this,shifting a semi is nothing like shifting your vehicle.So listen watch and ask questions.Not just what the instructor is doing but watch the students as well and how they shift, turn,back ,ect.What you should do now is start studying for your cdl permit and get that before you leave.Prime will want you to have that before driving.

 

I went to a private CDL school, a 3 week course. I had never even seen the inside of a big truck when I signed up and I passed on the first try. It's very possible. I've heard Primes training program is one of the best company programs out there. You will do fine.

 

You will do fine I came to prime never drove a manual transmission went out three weeks came back aced my test got my cdl went back out another 8 weeks did my 30000 miles and got my own truck 5/4/2014 will be my year glad I did it sometimes it's better to come knowing nothing at all because you will be more likely to retain the information because you are essentially a blank slate just remember if you feel you don't have an adequate trainer let them know and get you another one don't allow ur self to settle and not learn a proper trucking skill set because you don't want to cause problems the squeaky wheel gets the oil...lol good luck to you

 

This industry has no type of job security. You can get your cdl and a month later you are out of a job because you had a minor backing accident in your first 90 days. You will have a hard time finding a job. If you have to risk that much. I'd rather get a second job then have faith in the training that I'm going to receive from one of these 3 week wonder mills. Just read some of the threads on this forum from guys who have had accidents and can't find another job. Now I am a product of a 3 weeks training mill myself, but you have to understand. Trainers don't teach you common sense. They may teach you some tricks of the trade, but you use your head, and let your conscious guide you. Even when your trainer is telling you to back up. Still get out and look. I didn't even know how to shift a car let alone a big truck when I started. So yes its possible to pass the test. But a safe driving record is crucial in moving up the ladder to better opportunities. Just don't burn no bridges in NYC if you do decide to drive. Even after 6 months with a good driving record. You may find this isn't the career for you. God bless.

 

Good luck,

maybe you'll be one of the few that makes it.

 

Good Luck to you. Anything worth doing takes sacrifice and commitment. You seem to have both. I think your sincere desire to succeed will pull you through. You'll do great.

 

That is why they call it training.To teach you. You can learn, some do easier than others. You can do it, if you try hard.
As pointed out, a driver is but a single error away from losing his job, his career, possibly even a life. I believe in having a second skill, in case my first job is lost.

Keep us advised. Hang in there. You can do it.

 

Try checking out youtube for video's on shifting 18 wheelers.

You will need a copy of NY state hazmat book also to be studying. Prime has their own test for hazmat, but it does not count for your cdl. PA has a good one for the hazmat cdl, it has good formatting of the rules.

 

Take a deep breath and relax. I remember feeling this way 1 years ago. If you want it, and put your mind to it. No one can stop your success. Good luck.