Advice For 57 Yo Male Considering Trucking...

I'm a non smoker, is it difficult to get non-smoking trainers? Also, pros and cons of solo vs team OTCdriving? Please clarify the 10 hr day driving limit (is that actual driving time only or does that include down time for getting gas/food/loading, etc?). Do the truck company schools that pay for CDL classes allow for using restroom every few hrs (I've got the 'ol 57 y.o. prostate/urination issues, not severe thank GOD). Thanks! Jeff

I'm a non smoker, is it difficult to get non-smoking trainers? Also, pros and cons of solo vs team OTCdriving? Please clarify the 10 hr day driving limit (is that actual driving time only or does that include down time for getting gas/food/loading, etc?). Do the truck company schools that pay for CDL classes allow for using restroom every few hrs (I've got the 'ol 57 y.o. prostate/urination issues, not severe thank GOD). Thanks! Jeff

'S OK, Jeff. I'm 63.

Smokin' Trainers: Non-smoking is more of the trend these days. Should be no problem.

Solo vs team: I call it two guys living in a can. You make more money since your truck "never stops" for 10 hour breaks and such. Also you get to know your partner real well. The trucking companies like teams because the freight gets there faster.

10 hr. driving - the quick stuff {ErrolV takes a big breath} The rules are complicated until you start to live them then it's not so bad. Forget the "10 hr driving", you will be able to drive up to 11 hrs. There's a 30 minute break that allows the extra hour. Yes, you clock the time you drive (up to 11 hours of driving per shift). You also clock the rest of your time either as On Duty or Off. So stops are allowed as needed. (There is the Secret of the Bottle that you will learn.)

There really is a kid's book called "Everyone Poops", and we all know there could be a companion volume, "Everyone Pees". So if you need to go, you'll get your time.

Welcome to Trucking Truth, Kevin. Get your questions answered here. You can read Brett's Book about the trucking life, absolutely nail the CDL test by studying with the High Road Training Program, and check out Truck Driving Schools and Trucking Companies. Plus lots more.

Thanks for the reply Errol. It was very helpful and informative.

Jeff

10 hr. driving - the quick stuff {ErrolV takes a big breath} The rules are complicated until you start to live them then it's not so bad. Forget the "10 hr driving", you will be able to drive up to 11 hrs. There's a 30 minute break that allows the extra hour. Yes, you clock the time you drive (up to 11 hours of driving per shift). You also clock the rest of your time either as On Duty or Off. So stops are allowed as needed. (There is the Secret of the Bottle that you will learn.)

Huh? Please clarify.

Which part would you like clarification? Jeff asked about "10 hr. driving", so I expanded on that. You know most drivers could drive out the full 11 hours. Also, I hinted there's more but I skipped it so Jeff's brain wouldn't hurt just now.

I've got great work history, poor credit history.......would that be a problem with trying to get into a company paid CDL training/employment?