TMC new driver information

There were probably 3 or 4 different "good" places to post this but I figured since it was TMC related and they are a flatbed specific company, that this was probably the best place to reach everyone.

In another forum I was asking the question of going to a community college to get my CDL vs. going to a 1 day CDL program and getting my license that way. It seemed to me that most companies would send you through their own training anyway so it didn't really matter HOW you got your CDL because at the end of either program, you still had 0 experience although you had CDL in hand.

After speaking at length to TMC just now I found out there is really a THIRD option. That is to do your training directly with TMC and get your CDL that way. Their program is shorter than a community college (19 days) and you (supposedly) get more seat time than at a CC because you their were more trucks available, basically. They also have 2 simulators that most CCs don't have. Now, if you were to do their training, then quit the next day, you would owe them $2500 and it is prorated over the course of a year, which is what you "owe" them should you decide to go that route. So if you left after 6 months, you would owe them approximately $1250, for those of you who aren't so math inclined.

If I go to TMC with a CDL from a CC I still have to do a 12 day "orientation" with them where I learn the tips and tricks of flatbedding but don't have to do their 12 day course.

If I go to them with a CDL from 1 day CDL, I still do a 12 day "orientation" as well but don't have to do their 19 day course.

So, in summary, in my humble know nothing in the industry opinion, doing TMC's training is the most cost effective for what you get and arguably the best training.

There are probably a couple things I am leaving out and probably 500 of you who will have your own negative opinion to add to this but I hope this can help at least 1 new guy get some clear, relevant, recent information.

Have to go now, I need to get my TMC application finished and brush up on my MOPP level training (bonus points if you understand what that is) for the impending WWIII.

 

You don't learn everything in one day. You learn to take your inspection and skills test to get your CDL issued. It's just a way to get CDL in hand.

 

Well done. I owe you a beer when we cross paths.