So, you’re thinking about hitting the road as a truck driver?
Well, strap in, because attending a company paid CDL school is your ticket to getting that Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) and starting your journey in the trucking world.
But before you rev your engines, here’s what you need to know about what goes down at these training schools in the good ol’ U.S. of A.
Accommodations: Home Away from Home
- Roomies: Get ready to bunk up! You’ll likely be sharing living quarters with at least one other student. It’s like dorm life, but with a trucker twist. Be aware that the accommodations if supplied by the trucking company can be pretty rugged. I do mean rugged. Be prepared to get your own hotel room nearby, should you find bedbugs or the cleanliness level subpar.
- It Ain’t Gonna Be The Marriott: Don’t expect luxury digs. Your accommodations will be basic, with shared bathrooms and kitchens. Think functional, not fancy. But expect clean. If not, you may wish to reassess your choice or
Interacting with Peers: Study, Not Party Central
- Stay Focused: Yeah, making friends is cool, but remember why you’re there: to learn. Save the partying for another time and hit the books instead.
- Professional Vibes: Treat the training like a job. Save the wild nights for after you’ve got your CDL in hand. You run the risk of getting booted from the program if caught with drugs or alcohol. So conduct yourself accordingly. The school can do whatever they want and if they decide they don’t like you smelling like a brewery in class at 7 am, they literally can give you your walking ticket.
- Study Buddies: Connect with classmates who are serious about their trucking careers. You can support each other through the ups and downs of training.
Reading the Fine Print: Contract Caveats
- Know the Deal: Before you sign anything, read the contract from top to bottom. Understand what you’re committing to, including any post-training work requirements. (More about this in another post)
- Legal Stuff: This isn’t just a piece of paper. It’s a binding agreement. Make sure you’re clear on all the terms and conditions to avoid any surprises down the road.
- Explore Your Options: Just because a company says they will pay for your training doesn’t mean it’s a good deal. Take the time to weigh your options before making a long-term commitment. Paid CDL Training Programs may not be for you.
Trainer Talk: Learning from the Pros (or Not)
- Experience Varies: Your trainer might be a seasoned pro or someone just starting out. Either way, make the most of the knowledge they have to offer.
- Ask Away: Don’t be shy about asking questions. That’s how you learn! Tap into your trainer’s expertise to level up your trucking skills. Get the most out of your time spent at school. Too late when the program is over. This is your opportunity. Don’t screw it up.
- DIY Learning: Training doesn’t stop when class ends. Supplement your education with online resources and hands-on practice to become a top-notch driver. For example, check out our Smart Trucking Youtube Channel!
AS SEEN ON THE POPULAR YOUTUBE CHANNEL!
Budgeting Basics: Money Matters
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- Bring Your Wallet: While tuition might be covered, you’ll still need cash for meals and incidentals. Budget accordingly to avoid running low on dough.
- Meal Plan: Plan to pay for your own grub. Eating out every day can add up fast, so consider packing lunches to save some money. Some schools provide one meal/day but again, it can be rugged. Be prepared to do a little meal prep on your own. A trip to a nearby Walmart grocery section is a great idea for some cheap meals if you want to save some money while away from home.
- Emergency Fund: Expect the unexpected. Set aside some extra cash for unexpected expenses like transportation or gear you might need. Don’t neglect this. Do not attend one of these programs without a dime in your pocket. You could get left high and dry as in the BUS + DUMP!
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What to Bring to Company Paid CDL School Boot Camp
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Whether you’ll be showing up at your training with your CDLP or will get your learner’s permit at the CDL school, you’ll need bring the following items:
- Social Security Card (original)
- Birth Certificate (not a copy, original needed)
- Driver’s License (from state of residence)
- Employment History (verifiable history – ask beforehand how much history is needed)
- Your Passport
- Multiple changes of clothes (plan for all types of weather)
- Shoes/boots, sunglasses, hat(s), personal toiletries)
- Few notebooks, some loose leaf paper, pens
- Phone charger (if you have a phone)
Making the Grade: Tips for Success at CDL Training
- Stay Engaged: Pay attention in class, participate in discussions, and practice your skills like your future depends on it. Because it does!
- Keep Learning: Trucking is a lifelong learning journey. Stay curious and stay on top of industry trends and regulations to stay ahead of the game.
- Time Management: Balance your study time with downtime. Prioritize your tasks and stick to a schedule to make the most of your training experience.
Wrapping Up
So, there you have it!
A crash course on what to expect at a company-sponsored trucking school program.
Take the time to find out all the DETAILS about the CDL school program you’ll be attending, so there’s no surprises to throw you off your stride.
