Thinking of becoming a driver

Discussion in 'Questions From New Drivers' started by ptipton, Jan 4, 2011.

  1. ptipton

    ptipton Bobtail Member

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    Jan 4, 2011
    louisiana
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    I am 44 yrs old and have been laid off again I am thinking of becoming a driver and would like to know what route would be better. company paid training or going going to a school.
     
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  3. Jonny1

    Jonny1 Medium Load Member

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    Jan 14, 2007
    Nashville, TN
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    You will need both. You will attend a truck driving school anywhere from 15 days to a few months and with CDL in hand you will start your OTR training with a trainer in the truck for a few weeks.

    Some companies do offer a "no money down" sponsored schools to obtain your CDL, but you will pay much more for your schooling this route in the long run. I think the local technical college is the best route, longer training and more affordable
     
  4. PurpleKW

    PurpleKW Medium Load Member

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    Dec 28, 2010
    Chula Vista, CA
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    Yeah, if you can stick it out timewise, the community or technical college route would be the cheapest way to go, with minimal strings attached when you choose an outfit and head out with a trainer.
     
  5. 123456

    123456 Road Train Member

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    Good Luck in your New Career !!!

    Alot of opportunites out there !!
     
  6. TWHMan

    TWHMan Light Load Member

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    Jan 3, 2011
    NC
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    I don't think I've ever met anyone who has graduated from one of those schools. So either Walmart scoops them up quickly or no one finishes?
     
  7. PurpleKW

    PurpleKW Medium Load Member

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    Chula Vista, CA
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    Maybe it's an urban myth... I paid $3000 for my CDL-A, but I didn't have a clue about these supposed courses offered by community and technical colleges. If I had known, I probably would've taken that route instead...:biggrin_2557:
     
  8. 123456

    123456 Road Train Member

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    If walmart scoops them up,

    it for store greeters !!!!!
     
  9. caboverblue

    caboverblue Bobtail Member

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    Jan 4, 2011
    Colorado Springs, CO
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    i have been driving less than a year. I went to a driving school for 4 weeks. It was ok, but they sold my tuition loan and I ended up paying 250 a month instead of the 150 i signed for. READ THE SMALL PRINT! Anyway be careful with a school. After getting my CDL, I trained with Swift for 6 weeks then left for a local job. (Statewide) It's a blast, driving is a wonderful way of life. It's not a normal job at all but beats sitting at a desk! Good luck to you.
     
  10. TWHMan

    TWHMan Light Load Member

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    Jan 3, 2011
    NC
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    Your company hiring in Colorado Springs? :biggrin_25525:
     
  11. caboverblue

    caboverblue Bobtail Member

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    Jan 4, 2011
    Colorado Springs, CO
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    Not right now, but we have a few truck stop cowboys that are on the verge of hitting the street. I give em 3 more months.
     
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