Comments By Johnnylite

By all means take advantage of your neighbors offer. Maybe have her show you the pre trip and just the parts of the rig. It really helps. The training program on this site is excellent and take advantage of it. I was able to knock out my tests at the DMV for my permit on first try.

Good luck and make sure you keep us updated on your progress.

That's why we come here. It's a positive place. Keep your head up, slow down and smile.

I'm training in flatbed for Prime, I wave at anyone who waves at me but my trainer gives me a hard time for waving at reefer drivers. I still do it though. I was a reefer driver for a year.

Probably envious.

Have my start date set for June 2nd in Fontana California. Has anyone else been through this facility? Hoping grandchild number two shows up before that. Stay tuned.

I would start by contacting companies and filling out the applications or just the interest forms. Talk to recruiters and see what they offer. Some are true company schools and others offer reimbursement. Make sure the school you go to is APPROVED for reimbursement. I went to a small school and did not qualify. I am now shifting to Central and going through their school. All the advice about getting your ducks in a row as far as medical,etc. are spot on. I too am switching careers and am beyond happy with my decision. Last advice is start on the CDL training program on this site and stay on this site. The atmosphere and camaraderie is unbelievable.

The keyboard is a great tool to hear stories about training and life on the road. My wife asks what I'm doing and more than likely I'm on this site. Stay positive and have fun. The worst thing that could happen is you find a great new way to make a living and life is great. I start on June 2nd and will start posting the continuing saga of my journey. Good luck and keep an open mind.

Sounds like a great time. Keep us posted. Of course you know what your CB handle has to be now.

I too find myself doing the pre trip with my pickup. It gets me through the outside anyway. I also stopped by a local dealer and pre tripped one of the rigs sitting on the lot. Little tip I have for remembering is on tires. I C D inflation condition depth. The more you practice the better. Good luck and keep us posted. I start The 27th with Central.

Sounds like a great start. Keep us updated.

I have been looking to pick one up. Which version is the most popular. I see a hardback version in the high 200 range and a spiral bound for less than 100. Any advice?

One of my favorite saying comes from an old chinese proverb. No matter how far you've traveled down the wrong road. Turn back. Weeks into a local private school and coming to realization that even though I would have a CDL I would not be very employable. I also have been thinking and reading about really knowing what it takes to do the job. Coupling, Uncoupling etc. I also have been limited to a short 24 foot trailer and while nice to get around corners etc. not really what I am going to be driving.

Long story short is I have stopped short of taking my CDL Road test and enrolled with Central. Starting in a week close to home and am thinking I am a bit ahead of the curve as far as driving. I also have my permit and all endorsements so that's done. I am going to be in Fontana California which is close to my daughter and grandson so extra bonus. My wife is on board and relieved that a real plan is in place. 13 month commitment but I need that so off I go to continue this dream. 56 years old and doing what I dreamed about. I know it's not easy but nothing is.

Updates when I get to school.

John