CDL Truck Driving School Preparedness
CDL stands for “Commercial Driver’s License". The legal framework is defined and enforced by The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA). It has developed standards for testing and licensing Commercial Motor Vehicle (CMV) drivers. In short, the standards require States to issue CDL's to their CMV drivers on condition of the driver passing knowledge and skills tests administered by the State, and directly related to the type of vehicle to be operated.
Drivers need CDL's regardless of whether they are in interstate, intrastate, or foreign commerce. There are three classes of licences issued: A, B and C. For more details, visit www.fmcsa.dot.gov.
Any educational facility offering training for CDL, must comply with the above mentioned laws. This fact alone, will not guarantee that the level of schooling you’ll receive there will make you a good truck driver. There are many issues involved in running a successful truck driving school. You’ll be well advised, to do an extensive check of what your local schools have to offer. Courses will differ in prices, duration, accreditation level, size of classes, job referrals, etc.
First step would be to find out if the course is endorsed by the Profession Truck Drivers Institute. Secondly, it pays to ask recent graduates about how the classes were run, and more importantly, how competent they feel the practical training was. If the school fleet consists of modern vehicles and the numbers of students per instructor are low, the results are usually good. This almost always instils a high degree of confidence amongst trainees, and provides the base for the future competent driver. While some training institutions enjoy long traditions and good reputation, it always pays to get the most up-to-date report.
Second step, would be to find out the costs involved. In general, two systems exist:
- Full fee due immediately or, charged in instalments as the course progresses.
- Free, or reduced tuition fees. The former applies mainly to dedicated commercial driver training schools. The later involves community colleges with vocational training, and courses organized by freight companies, in exchange for trainee’s commitment to work for them after graduation.
Naturally, each of the schemes has its advantages and disadvantages. Ultimately, you’ll get what you’ve paid for; taking any short cuts may seriously reduce your competence as a beginner truck driver, and impact your whole career. After you obtain your basic CDL, and have some on road experience, and an unblemished safety driving record, time to think about adding highly valued endorsements.
Here is the list:
H - Hazardous Materials (Knowledge Test only)
T - Double/Triple Trailers (Knowledge test only)
P - Passenger (Knowledge and Skills Tests)
X - Combination of Tank Vehicle and Hazardous Materials
N - Tank Vehicle (Knowledge Test only). Having some of them, will decidedly improve your employment prospects as a truck driver. Not to mention the pay scale will grow significantly, from $25 to $35 per hour, and more. 
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