Profile For Michael S.

That's awesome. How long did it take you and did you get any endorsements?

It took about 30 minutes once I started the test, but was told I couldn't test for any endorsements until I actually had a truck to drive for the test. I studied for a Tanker endorsement and was ready to Ace it, but again, wasn't allowed.

Well, just passed my exam for the CLP and got the permit, now I just need to get hired in a training school :). The test was mostly a breeze, except for a couple or three questions from "left field" that had to do with the "Texas Regulations" but I passed it. Thanks for all the help and study material "Trucking Truth."

Ok, I kinda of figured, but it would be great to offer it here. I think it would be a great help to us Texans trying to get into driving. I am studying from the book, but it's not as fun :). Thanks for the reply.

Why don't you offer the study/testing for that? Or where else can I find that testing material in the type of format offered here? Thanks Mike

Hey Mike,

I know what you're referring to. It's "section 14" in the Texas CDL manual. We plan to add it to our High Road CDL Training Program, but we haven't done so yet.

For now, all you can do is study that section straight from the manual. Unfortunately, I doubt we'll have it finished in time for your exam.

Texas is the only state that has a special requirements section like that, so we're getting to that as we can.

Sorry about that!

I am still waiting for my CLP permit testing date to come up (3/6/23). In the meantime, I am still studying through the testing format you guys offer here, which, BTW have been a great help to me and I believe I will Ace my tests :). However, there is one section I am a little concerned about and that is the "special requirements" test that Texas stipulates are needed for the CLP. Why don't you offer the study/testing for that? Or where else can I find that testing material in the type of format offered here? Thanks Mike

Well, it's been about 2-3 months since I started working on physical exam. Was very concerned about my medications, health, and cpap, but I FINALLY PASSED!!! WooHoo! Now I just have to wait for my appointment to take the CLP exam. I feel confident about that, thanks to the testing help on the site :). Be back when I have more news. Good Luck all.

Well, went in to see about my exam, Dr. want's all medical records from cardiologist, and foot Dr. who fused my ankle. He asked me how I would use the clutch with my operated foot, I said what's a clutch...lol, I said I normally just float my gears, he said I don't know what that is...LOL. Anyway, waiting on paper work from cardiologist and foot Dr. BTW, I didn't actually get the exam and no charge either, it was just questions regarding my health. I guess I shouldn't have walked in there with an ankle brace...LOL. I'll keep trying, Later guys. Mike

Duck walk???? That sucks, I had my ankle fused about 6 months ago and I still have a bit of a limp. Well, what the heck, I'm going to go for it. I'll set up an appointment for the next couple of days. I'll let you guys know how it goes :). Thanks all for the info. Wish me luck :).

That's typically done at orientation, not when you get your physical. Once you start applying for carriers drivers that have been through orientation there can provide specifics on what was expected.

Are you planning on going through a private school or Paid CDL Training Programs? We highly recommend paid training because as long as you're able to pass school you're almost guaranteed to have a job waiting for you. Not that it applies in your situation, but far too often someone gets their CDL through a private school and can't land a job due to their past criminal, driving record, or work history. Meanwhile they're out the $5,000 or more without a job to show for it. With paid training it often times is free if you fulfill your end of the agreement, typically working for them for 1 year but double check the terms before signing!

Michael, blood pressure is a big issue on DOT exams. How is your BP? Get your doctor to help you if it’s a problem. The first number can’t be above 140. Research BMI, body mass index. This can determine if a company will require you to use a CPAP machine. Also, get your blood sugar levels checked. Too high or too low can really affect your ability to drive.

My BP is good, but I was assigned a CPAP a few months ago - sleep like a baby now :). As for the sugar, doc says I'm "borderline" need to lose some lbs. :(. Hope that doesn't hold me back. Also, I'm getting the forms from the FMCSA website for my Dr.'s to fill out in regards to medications. So, we will see how it all goes. I'll keep you guys posted. Thank you all for the great advice. Have a great today. Blessings to all. Michael S.

Duck walk???? That sucks, I had my ankle fused about 6 months ago and I still have a bit of a limp. Well, what the heck, I'm going to go for it. I'll set up an appointment for the next couple of days. I'll let you guys know how it goes :). Thanks all for the info. Wish me luck :).

That's typically done at orientation, not when you get your physical. Once you start applying for carriers drivers that have been through orientation there can provide specifics on what was expected.

Are you planning on going through a private school or Paid CDL Training Programs? We highly recommend paid training because as long as you're able to pass school you're almost guaranteed to have a job waiting for you. Not that it applies in your situation, but far too often someone gets their CDL through a private school and can't land a job due to their past criminal, driving record, or work history. Meanwhile they're out the $5,000 or more without a job to show for it. With paid training it often times is free if you fulfill your end of the agreement, typically working for them for 1 year but double check the terms before signing!

I'm hoping to get the "Paid Training" route. I live in the Dallas area, and I've heard that Roel has a facility nearby, think I'll check them out. First things first though, need the Med. card, and the Permit :). I really appreciate your input.

Duck walk???? That sucks, I had my ankle fused about 6 months ago and I still have a bit of a limp. Well, what the heck, I'm going to go for it. I'll set up an appointment for the next couple of days. I'll let you guys know how it goes :). Thanks all for the info. Wish me luck :).

How "physical" is it? Do I have to do like 50 squats and 100 pushups...lol

Some companies will have specific testing that you go through based on the job you want. When I did food service (very physically demanding) I was ran through several exercises lifting weights, climbing a ladder and several other things with my heart rate being checked like a minute after each. For most jobs that don't require you to unload by hand you'll only be expected to "duck walk" under the trailer to prove you can inspect under the trailer and double check the 5th wheel is fully closed. You'll also likely be required to prove you can climb in the trailer. Other than that your DOT physical is a vision test, blood pressure, urine test to check for protein/diabetes (pre employment physical usually uses sample for drug test as well) and then listening to various parts of your body with a stethoscope. The doctor that does my physicals does not check male genitalia for hernias but he does press on your abdomen. Your hearing will be tested by the examiner standing a few feet away and saying words in a forced whisper that you need to repeat back. The DOT physical isn't very different than a regular checkup with your primary doctor.

You appear to be in better shape than many of the drivers we see at truck stops. For most jobs there isn't any age (after you're 23) or weight discrimination. As long as you can pass a physical and are a safe driver there won't be a problem getting hired.

Cool!!! I couldn't do 5 Squats or 10 pushups if my life depended on it...lol. Thanks all.

No pushups and stuff. It’s similar to a well visit check up at doctor. Eye sight, hearing, blood pressure, urine proteins, general mobility