Georgia Driver Academy: CDL School

Day 1 Started school today!

This initial post will be short but I will post about my experience here and share my perspective. Thus far, communication, application and the personnel here have been nothing short of precise. To a fault I can set almost impractical expectations on myself and others yet I can't point to any flaw with GDA. My advisor and classroom instructor have left me with nothing to question thus far. I assume that as I learn what I don't know I will begin to see cracks that I will want to fill and I guess this is where the rubber meets the road with training schools but again, to their credit, well done.

As a 47 year old I've been around long enough, been burned with empty promises, sold empty pots of gold and seen people and organizations sell their souls to settle a passing moment. Not here. By the book, simple, honest, nice, and focused. In passing, all the other staff has presented a professional attitude and they all seem to be "on page". I see no wasting going on here. As a veteran and a former athlete these are fundamental to success. I feel good about it.

Personally and selfishly, the only real hardship for the day was the "audiobook" sections of the CDL manual, largely because I'm chomping at the bit...like a racehorse or a greyhound, or maybe I should say a happy dog who's spotted his favorite stick on a sand bar "out there"...but, word of advice while going through the "theory" section of training if you haven't already secured your permit...eat light...and stand up frequently during these dissertations which will help you avoid the embarrassment a couple folks in my class experienced after nodding off and thundering deep gasping breath-quakes. You know, the head bobbing and the snatching snore that jerks you out of your seat...no one wants to be that person. That wont be me. Us older folk (47yo) only have one box, Positive Example. I hope I can be that.

I'll report back with any worthy news.

Im Looking forward to hearing about your experiences. Its always interesting in seeing how people "grow". Just pay attention to everything they tell you, and if you have any questions make sure you speak up and ask. Also, everyone here is more than happy to answer questions. Be sure if it's something urgent to post the questions over in the "general forum" as there's alot more traffic over there.

Also if you haven't already got your permit id recommend you use the High Road CDL Training Program to help retain information as well.

Ok, I decided to not report on the school while attending in case they monitored this site and I found discrepancies that could be construed the wrong way. Fortunately, for all of us, I can say that aside from a few areas where they can improve (and who doesn't) GDA is a great school to obtain your CDL.

My instructors were spectacular, the front office administrators stellar professionals and the facilities management personnel always brought a smile to my face. I felt that every employee there understood the mission and brought their hearts into each day. I can usually poke holes in just about any experience or situation but honestly it was easy to focus on the tasks at hand because I didn't have the concerns or worries that can impede learning.

Now, yes, there were a few instances where concerns did arise. This is natural in a learning environment but there was always an honest answer or solution at the other end of it. That's hard to find...anywhere.

I wish I could name these folks but I do not have their blessing to do so, so I will simply say that if you live in Georgia and looking for a quality CDL school I stand behind them and give a solid recommendation.

The entire process was quite efficient. The initial application, the 3 week schooling, the timing of my DDS exam on the most immediate day after completing my 180 hours, to the presentation that very afternoon with my Honor Graduate documentation and final paperwork, it all went almost flawlessly. If you fail or falter, it's really on you. These folks are true professionals and extremely knowledgeable.

If you are watching, Well done GDA! I am a proud graduate.

Interesting that you chose this route to get your CDL rather than going to Melton’s paid training program? Any particular reason? Only if you care to elaborate, I’m just curious.

Sure Reyn, the main reason was I had not chosen a carrier and did not want to rush into a decision that would have left me stuck with said decision for a year (a commitment I am making to myself). In Georgia there's also a work force program for veterans that pays for the schooling up front. This allowed me to get into school and continue researching carriers. Another point, is I have pets and logistically being away for 2 months as opposed to 1 month is much more manageable. Hope this helps.

Interesting that you chose this route to get your CDL rather than going to Melton’s paid training program? Any particular reason? Only if you care to elaborate, I’m just curious.