CFI CDL Training

Congratulations! Well done.

Glad you emphasized PTI on the coupling. Couldn't agree more.

Dropping a trailer resulting from a false couple or "high-hook", is a top-three, but very preventable rookie mistake. Never skip inspecting the coupled Kingpin and fifth-wheel.

Good luck in orientation, the "extended job interview".

Thanks G-Town!

2-14-18 Day 18 of school Happy Valentine's Day! This morning another classmate and I did one more tested road drive. We both passed our CDL tests yesterday. The rest of my classmates are CDL testing today. So far, all of us have passed the pretrip and backing portions. However, 2 failed the road test; one bumped into a curb with his steer tire on a difficult turn and the other pointed out by just one point. So, they will be retesting tomorrow.

The only driving left for me at school, is one final road trip.

Here's my take on CDL school. First, a company-sponsored program is a great option. It isn't the only one, but in my opinion it is a great one. Next, be prepared to work your butt off. Come to school focused on your goal which is to get that CDL-A license and go to work. If you don't get something the first time shown (backing, etc), keep at it and don't get discouraged. One of my classmates tests at 1 pm today for his CDL and just this morning, he understood the backing and was doing MUCH better. Also, at least here, the instructors will work with you and do everything they can to help you succeed!

Huge congratulations Jmart! I'm sure it's a great relief to have that burden lifted off your shoulders. Continued success going forward with millions of safe miles ahead! Hats off to you!!

Congratulations jmart!

Thanks to all! Yes, it is a huge weight off my shoulders.

2-15-18 Day 19 of school Things are winding down now with school. I did my last tested road trip this morning and have the afternoon off. Some of the other students in my class who didn't pass their CDL test the first time re-tested today. There will also be some that re-test tomorrow. Unfortunately, we have a student that re-tested for the second time and failed but will have his final re-test next Tuesday. The last week of school is mainly getting students tested and help those that need. We did do a couple of road drives this week too. Tomorrow will be some education on extreme weather driving and in the afternoon we will be off to Joplin to await orientation this coming Monday with CFI!

Jmart, you drove your car down to Joplin to start school. Did they allow you to bring your car to the school?

How much money would you recommend bringing to cover food on weekends, laundry, and other incidentals?

Congratulations again.

And I hope you continue to keep us updated about orientation, training, etc.

Jmart, you drove your car down to Joplin to start school. Did they allow you to bring your car to the school?

How much money would you recommend bringing to cover food on weekends, laundry, and other incidentals?

Congratulations again.

And I hope you continue to keep us updated about orientation, training, etc.

Yes, I brought my car to school. It was nice to have because there isn't any gas stations or stores close to the school. There are taxis available but they cost money. I liked it because there was more freedom. As far as money goes, breakfast is served at the hotel and I believe lunch at CFI. We arrived on a Thursday, so at least one meal that night. One meal on Friday night because we arrived at school on Saturday morning. We are going back to Joplin tomorrow. Orientation starts Monday and is 4 days. I know we will have one meal each day of orientation. I would say $100-$150. I will keep this updated throughout Orientation.

2-16-18 Day 20 of school, final day This morning we watched an extreme weather driving video and learned how to put chains on. We also received our final paperwork, etc. After lunch, we were off to Joplin to await orientation which starts Monday. Two of my classmates retested this morning on their road tests and Passed! I will update the diary throughout orientation/training

Now the fun begins. Be prepared to get all the miles you can drive. We are busy, busy, busy.