Getting Started - A Million Questions
Topic 33438 | Page 1
Normally we recommend that new drivers go through a company's school because then when they get through it they have a job. Plus the private schools generally just get you your CDL but not a job. Very few are associated with trucking companies. I'm not too sure of companies having in-state drivers only.
Some of the guys will be along before too long and can give you more information.
Laura
CDL:
Commercial Driver's License (CDL)
A CDL is required to drive any of the following vehicles:
- Any combination of vehicles with a gross combined weight rating (GCWR) of 26,001 or more pounds, providing the gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of the vehicle being towed is in excess of 10,000 pounds.
- Any single vehicle with a GVWR of 26,001 or more pounds, or any such vehicle towing another not in excess of 10,000 pounds.
- Any vehicle, regardless of size, designed to transport 16 or more persons, including the driver.
- Any vehicle required by federal regulations to be placarded while transporting hazardous materials.
Unless you have a job lined up, I would suggest you wait the year. Then go with a company that will train you for free. You would be expected to work for them for a year. Those companies are more forgiving to the bumps you have while learning.
Best of luck to you.
HOS:
Hours Of Service
HOS refers to the logbook hours of service regulations.
I met a driver my company hired/trained and ran him in-state til he aged up. I wouldn't think it's common but it's possible.
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Hey. I'm just 20 years old but just passed the permit test. I know I'm at least a year out from being able to do OTR driving, but that's my goal. I see a lot of discouraging, and confusing and contradicting advice about what I should be doing next.
I'm about to sign up for a private CDL course local (southern Michigan). Cost is about $5500 which I'm prepared to handle. But, is that the best course of action? Paying for the course, getting the liscence, then working within state only for a year?
Thanks for any advice. I'm ready to go! Just not sure what to do next.
CDL:
Commercial Driver's License (CDL)
A CDL is required to drive any of the following vehicles:
OTR:
Over The Road
OTR driving normally means you'll be hauling freight to various customers throughout your company's hauling region. It often entails being gone from home for two to three weeks at a time.