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M&M C.'s Comment
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Hello Ladies,

I have been seriously contemplating getting my CDL for a few years. Now that the kids are grown and my boring job has been outsourced anyway..it seems like the time might be right for taking the plunge. I have the usual doubts/questions about being 53 years old and starting on this new adventure. Also, my biggest concern at this point is trying to allay dear husband's concerns! He will be staying home...worrying...

1. Do you consider this to be a *safe* job, especially those of you who are solo drivers? 2. Are there regional jobs available for rookies? How do they pay compared to over the road jobs? I live in the Southeast. 3. Will companies be willing to hire an old broad like me?

Thanks for any advice, M.

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.

Regional:

Regional Route

Usually refers to a driver hauling freight within one particular region of the country. You might be in the "Southeast Regional Division" or "Midwest Regional". Regional route drivers often get home on the weekends which is one of the main appeals for this type of route.

Over The Road:

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.

HOS:

Hours Of Service

HOS refers to the logbook hours of service regulations.
RedGator (Nalee)'s Comment
member avatar

Welcome aboard M&M:-) Sorry for the delayed response. Looks like most of our females are out there making money and probably to busy to pop in. Yes ma'am companies will hire a mature lady such as yourself. We have many women in their 50s on this board that drive and are solo. Yes ma'am its safe out here. With anywhere or anything you just have to be aware of your surroundings at all times. Ive been out here 2 1/2 yrs with no trouble. Yes there are alot of rookie companies that hire SE regional. My company WEL has a SE regional out of GA to most of the southern states. As im not on much if you have mote questions and need a quicker reaponse pm me. Good luck to you

Regional:

Regional Route

Usually refers to a driver hauling freight within one particular region of the country. You might be in the "Southeast Regional Division" or "Midwest Regional". Regional route drivers often get home on the weekends which is one of the main appeals for this type of route.
Candy S.'s Comment
member avatar

I just joined and am also looking for information. I am 52, and presently drive a school bus. Truck driving has always been an interest. I'm not sure about which school to go thru. I have been researching a lot. NW Indiana is my area. Any advice would be welcome. Thanks
Sarah D.'s Comment
member avatar

I had a classmate start this profession at your age as well, never stepping into a truck before . so don't fret about the age.

I have been out here on my own for about 7 weeks, and have not felt unsafe once. Just always be aware of your surroundings and follow your instincts.

From my research most companies pay and benefits are pretty equal starting out, so for me it came down to hometime options. There are a lot of different companies out there, so you will find something. But just remember it is a lot of work, but also a lot of fun. And if you get into this, give yourself a year to see things through if you start having reservations

good luck on your decision
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