What do I need to have for CDL training?

Discussion in 'Trucking Schools and CDL Training Forum' started by hdtennessee92, Aug 30, 2026.

  1. hdtennessee92

    hdtennessee92 Bobtail Member

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    What the title says, what are must haves for CDL training both for classroom and when you actually get in the truck with a trainer?

    I know I will 100% need pants, boots, etc

    also what do you wish you brought that you did not?
     
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  3. Chinatown

    Chinatown Road Train Member

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  4. lual

    lual Road Train Member

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    What do you need for the CDL world?
    • The work ethic of a freight train
    • The patience of a grandfather clock
    • A rear end/derriere made out of kevlar
    • A sense of humor which rivals that of most stand-up comedians/comediennes
    Also: as you pass into/thru your upcoming new adventure -- may God have mercy on your soul.
     
  5. Chinatown

    Chinatown Road Train Member

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  6. Ddh77777

    Ddh77777 Medium Load Member

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    High visibility vest or shirt. The kind with the actual reflectors. Most all truck stops have those, but you can get a couple you like for less beforehand.

    Some places the guard or whoever you check in with will literally refuse to speak to you if you don't have that on outside of your truck.
     
  7. Ddh77777

    Ddh77777 Medium Load Member

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    Some also state they require hearing protection, but I have never once had someone verify if I was using it or not. If you want to get a couple of the disposable foam ones they don't cost much or take up a lot of room.
     
  8. Chinatown

    Chinatown Road Train Member

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    Many places you deliver to or pick up freight from, require steel or composite toe work shoes.
     
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  9. hdtennessee92

    hdtennessee92 Bobtail Member

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    good advice! I have a pair of steel toe that I am pretty used to but definitely could see how they would be an issue!

    thank you! honestly, I very much appreciate it! I know this new journey is going to test me in ways I have never been tested!
     
  10. hdtennessee92

    hdtennessee92 Bobtail Member

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    Thank you for the advice! I honestly never would have thought to get the high visibility vests! I may steal some from my husband, he gets them for free where he works! lol

    Ah, yes, hearing protecting, very used to that from my time in factories. They were very serious about it, if they saw you with none they would immediately write you up
     
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  11. Allow Me.

    Allow Me. Trucker Forum STAFF Staff Member

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    I recommend steel toe boots. Because you could have an empty pallet fall on your foot (ouch) or a case of canned goods (ouch again) . And I always say, travel light. You need to be able to carry all your stuff in one trip. You will understand this when you arrive at the motel for orientation, then next morning have to check out and walk to shuttle van, then into area at office for classroom, then back to shuttle van back to motel, then next day same thing, then into trainers truck etc etc. Most stuff for internet can be done on your cell phone, leave laptop at home. Have fun:cya:
     
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