You’ve finished trucking school, and now you’re feeling ready to head off on your first solo cross-country trip. Before you can strike out on your own, however, there are a few more steps you need to take after completing your CDL training.
We’ve all heard that America relies on truckers. Truck drivers deliver the goods we all need to thrive and survive. It’s also been said that without truckers, our country would soon come to a standstill.
Backing up is one of the most challenging maneuvers for a trailer driver. It is common to find drivers who can move forward competently but who have trouble when they are required to back up. The difficulty is compounded if the trailer has a sleeper bunk. The inability to back up a rig is a common cause of damage to trucks parked vehicles and to loading docks. Here are some tips for safe backing up:
Obtaining a Commercial Driver’s License can lead to a rewarding career, but a busy lifestyle can leave you with reservations about the time it takes for training. It’s a great idea to think things through and plan ahead because CDL training does involve a commitment. The good news is that training is doable for most people on any schedule!
If you’re exploring the option of getting your CDL, you know that you’ll first need your commercial learner’s permit or CPL. This permit allows you to practice driving on public roadways alongside a licensed CDL instructor.
Failing the CDL exam can be a trucker’s worst nightmare. The driving portion of the exam is where a lot of driver’s struggle the most. What if you forget the rules or focus on them so much that it leads to a mistake? The following guide focuses on how to avoid failing the CDL exam.
When you become a truck driver you are required to have a DOT physical. If you are going to be operating commercial motor vehicles a DOT physical exam is required. Drivers need to be able to safely operate their vehicle and a DOT physical ensures there are no health issues which would prevent that from happenings.
According to the American Trucking Association, the current shortage of CDL truck drivers is expected to increase over 175,000 by 2026. The ATA points out the largest factor contributing to this shortage is the average age of for-hire drivers is 49. The trucking industry hopes to bridge the older driver demographics and lack of qualified applicants with a new law called, the DRIVE-Safe Act.
You’ve been researching online about getting your CDL at a trusted trucking school. You’ve read countless articles online, you have the support of your closest family and friends, and you have all the information you need….almost.
If you are looking to start a new career in truck driving, there are a few questions you need to ask any recruiter before you get started. Here is a list of some things you need to know from any new employer: