Embarking on a trucking career is an exciting venture, and it all starts with proper CDL (Commercial Driver’s License) training. Here’s a detailed guide to help you navigate the process of CDL training and selecting the right truck driving school.
What is a CDL?
A Commercial Driver's License or CDL is required to operate large commercial vehicles. There are 3 classes of CDL including:
Class A: Required for operating large combination vehicles, including tractor-trailers and tankers.
Class B: Necessary for driving large single vehicles like buses and dump trucks.
Class C: Needed for vehicles carrying hazardous materials or designed to transport 16 or more passengers.
What are the steps to obtain a CDL?
Getting your CDL involves several steps. And you might be surprised to learn that there’s more to it than just passing a driving skills test. You also have to meet certain medical requirements and residency requirements. The following steps will help you along the way toward obtaining your CDL.
Get a copy of your state's Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Manual. The manual is available in their field locations or is often downloadable from their website to be printed as needed. Be aware that each state has its own steps to getting a CDL that you should investigate. See our CDL Manual Directory here.
Decide on the type of driving you wish to do and the type of vehicle you plan to operate. This will determine which license you will likely need. Choose the class or type of CDL you plan to pursue. There are 3 classes of CDLs (A, B, C), with endorsements for specialized vehicles, which authorize holders to operate CMVs. See an entire list of endorsements here. Note that the FMCSA does not issue CDLs. State governments are responsible for issuing CDLs.
Obtain a Commercial Learners Permit (CLP). The Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP) is the written portion or knowledge portion of the CDL testing. It will allow the driver to operate a commercial motor vehicle while supervised by a valid CDL holder.
Complete Entry-Level Driver Training. If you are applying for a CDL Class A or CDL Class B for the first time and are issued a CLP, you must complete entry-level driver training (ELDT) with a registered training provider prior to testing. However, there is no Federal requirement for drivers to complete their entry-level driver theory training before applying for a CLP.
Get the Commercial Driver’s License (CDL). You are required to possess the CLP for at least 14 days and complete the entry-level driver training to be eligible to take the CDL skills test. After that, you must pass all 3 parts of the Skills Test: the Vehicle Inspection Test (see inspection checklist here), the Basic Vehicle Control (Maneuvering) Test, and the Road Test. After you’ve successfully completed your behind-the-wheel training, you can then take the necessary steps to acquire your CDL, which allows you to begin driving on your own. Basically, once you have passed the CDL skills test (not to be confused with ELDT), you need to take the documentation to the State Driver’s License Agency for review and processing. Some States will issue the CDL the very same day, while other states elect to issue it through the mail. Review the CDL you receive. Look it over for errors before getting out on the road.
How do I prepare for CDL training?
Maintaining a Clean Driving Record: A clean driving record, free from major violations like DUIs, is essential. Most trucking companies prefer candidates with at least three years of clean driving history.
Substance Abuse History: Trucking companies conduct regular drug tests. A history of substance abuse or recent DUIs can be a major deterrent to securing a job in the trucking industry.
Criminal Background Check: While not an absolute barrier, a clean criminal background improves your employment prospects. Crimes involving theft, violence, or substance abuse can significantly impact your hiring potential.
Medical Fitness: Ensure you meet the medical requirements set by the DOT, including passing a physical exam. Read more about medical requirements here.
Employment History: A stable work history demonstrates reliability and professionalism which are highly valued in the trucking industry.
How do you choose the right truck driving school?
Selecting the right school is crucial for your training and future career. Here are the main types of truck driving schools:
Community Colleges: Community colleges often offer comprehensive CDL training programs.
Private Truck Driving Schools: Private schools vary in cost and training length. They often provide flexible schedules, hands-on experience, and personalized instruction.
Company-Operated Schools: Some trucking companies operate their own schools. These programs might offer free or subsidized training in exchange for a commitment to work for the company upon graduation.
Key Factors to Consider
Quality of Training: Choose a state-licensed program with experienced instructors and a good reputation.
Registered Training Provider: Check if the school is listed in the Federal Training Registry.
Training Length: Longer training programs (typically 4 weeks) tend to offer more thorough instruction and better prepare you for the CDL exams.
Costs: Tuition costs can vary widely. Look for schools that offer financial assistance, scholarships, or payment plans. Some schools might be eligible for federal or state grants.
Location: Consider schools that are convenient to you, but don’t rule out those a bit further away if they offer superior training or better job placement opportunities.
Job Placement Assistance: Many schools have partnerships with trucking companies. A school with a strong job placement program can significantly ease the transition from training to employment. Some schools may also partner with Soshaul to offer discounts on our business training program, How To Start, Drive, & Accelerate Your Trucking Business. Learn more here.
Starting a trucking career involves careful planning and decision-making. Ensuring you meet the qualifications and choosing the right training program are essential steps. By investing time in finding the right school, you set the foundation for a successful and fulfilling trucking career.
Start your trucking business off the right way! Learn more about our new book, How to Start, Drive, and Accelerate a Trucking Business.
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Soshaul Logistics LLC and its affiliates do not provide tax, legal or accounting advice. This material has been prepared for informational purposes only, and is not intended to provide, and should not be relied on for, tax, legal or accounting advice. It is meant to serve as a guide and information only and Soshaul Logistics, LLC does not assume responsibility for any omissions, errors, or ambiguity contained herein. Contents may not be relied upon as a substitute for the FMCSA's published regulations. You should consult your own tax, legal and accounting advisors before engaging in any transaction or operation.
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