Behind The Wheel Training

Just got back the school location in Corona, CA. I was able to speak with the guy that would be my trainer, watch a couple students do their maneuvers training and sit in on their pre-trip training. I spoke with two students there, overall they recommended the school. They both told me to get my permit before attending so I could focus completely on driving and pre-trip. After sitting in on their pre-trip inspection , I see how it can be tough. Both students mentioned how important it was for me to take in all the instructor was saying, but have my own complete understanding from studying as well, especially pre-trip because his wording on some things was different. I liked the instructor, from what I saw his personality and way of teaching would work well for me. Both students on the lot at the time were driving I think he said 7 speed transmission trucks? They have a 10 speed truck which will cast $1,795 to train on, while the others are $1,295. I want to learn on the 10 speed, but how much of a difference would the 7 speed make? Didn't even know about a 7 speed. Also they train with the 28ft trailers, most OTR driving is with a 53ft trailer right? Will training with a 28ft trailer be ok?

1) 53 ft. trailers would be best, because most (IF NOT ALL) companies use 53 ft. trailers, unless you plan on driving doubles with Conway LTL or Saia.

2) My class was 390 hours and I had to get at least 210 hours OJT before the school would issue me my certificate.

3) Brett and Guyjax are correct. Call these companies before attending any school, but especially if it is a short length school.

Dave

Thanks Dave, yeah my top two companies of interest are both good with this school. I like this school, just don't like the idea of the 28ft trailers

I'm not big on the 28 foot trailers myself. And to be honest, I'm not sure why they're training people on equipment they're not going to be driving when they get out on the road. I've never heard of a 7 speed either.

Have you checked out other schools in your area or are they about the only one around? I wouldn't say the short trailers are a show-stopper, but I'd rather learn on equipment that's close to what I'll be driving and the shorter trailers make a world of difference.

Yeah I'm right there with you I want to learn on what's standard, the 28ft trailer bothers me to much to consider this school anymore. I'm willing to drive an hour or two for classes so I have a good amount of options to look at. Tough finding the right school, I'm learning something from each one I check out though