What to Do Before Starting CDL Training

What to Do Before Starting CDL Training

A commercial driver’s licence (CDL) is given to drivers who can manage to operate large or heavy vehicles that are usually used as a commercial transport.

If you made up your mind to get a CDL to start driving trucks or to start a career in trucking, then you are probably wondering about what the CDL training sessions will teach you.

The Department of Transportation needs you to have a Commercial Driver’s license (CDL) to drive heavy trucks professionally.  Moving heavy material would be very risky without proper permission.

Getting your CDL is essential. It not only makes you a legal truck driver but also gives you confidence in driving a massive truck. You should get trained to pass the official test. Thus, it all comes down to learning to be good at trucking.

You can find and enroll in CDL training sessions. There are various community colleges, training centers and technical schools that provide quality training and will help you acquire the right skills to begin trucking. CDL training continues for several weeks. You will learn about how to operate various trucks by training behind the wheel and taking theory classes.

The aspiring truck drivers will take a set of tests that are both written and practical; passing allows the state to grant them the CDL permit. With the permit in your hand, you are ready to start your trucking career.

More about CDL:

An individual who wants to be a professional trucker should have a Class A CDL. It’s a critical priority for the job. You need to understand that there are various kinds of CDL, and each can be attained by the type of trucks you wish to drive. The primary step is to qualify from the tests.

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration has set high criteria for individuals to attain the licence. But the requirements change according to the states where the tests are held. Each state has its own way to forward the applications, fees towards support, renewing procedures and determining the cycle of renewal. The government is responsible for carrying out their kind of operations, and they give licences as per their norms and principles.

What you need before getting the licence:

Getting a CDL requires you to meet some universal requirements.

  • The applicant must be 18 years or above and should hold a valid driver’s license from the state.
  • They must submit their driving records from the past three or four years. The individual must have a clean three-year motor vehicle record, free from speeding tickets, accidents, DUIs (Driving Under the Influence), or suspension of their license during the previous years.
  • The applicants must also meet the required medical health conditions to get a CDL. They will have to pass a physical examination. The medical requirements alter according to the state.
  • The applicant should pass a drug screening test.
  • A clean background check is essential.

The CDL training classes:

Training classes are a blend of practical truck driving lessons and theoretical learning, which is also known as classroom learning. The aspiring truck driver will understand the working of the vast machinery. They are made to understand the basic concepts needed to drive heavy vehicles. Various techniques are taught that are essential for truckers. For example: close-quarters driving, city driving, highway driving, and also implying the necessity for thorough knowledge about road signs and rules, turning and backing of the truck, and more.

The CDL classes also help in covering some important topics about trucking industry information, safety and first aid, materials and cargo, learning about state and federal laws related to trucking, trip planning, routing, managing logbooks, pre and post-inspections, and other related aspects. Most programs teach you coupling and uncoupling a trailer which is a distinct skill you will need to know.

You must know that CDL is not just one kind of licence. Your type of CDL influences what kind of trucks you want to move. There are classified into three types: Class A, B, and C.

You must also pass additional testing along with a CDL to receive specific permissions.

Getting certified in the additional tests will only bring you closer to your dream trucking. You can also take these tests later  after getting your CDL.

Finding the right CDL program:

Now that we understand how we could acquire a CDL and all that you need to learn to get your one, it’s time to find out where you could find the right training class. You need to consider is cost and effectiveness of the program. Do your research and sign up. The CDL classes are usually held by institutes that are purely dedicated to teaching driving. Some of these institutes might also offer you a job right after your training. So, consider various factors that influence you to join in a particular institute or training school.

Remember that you should look for quality training, even if it is expensive. It is better to be trained at a reputable institute. The program could be as long as 160-200 hours. Don’t get fooled by two-three week training programs. Trucking requires a lot of experience and time for you to work as a professional driver. Think about the tests you will have to take because that’s what all the training is for.  Quality training will help you gain the CDL, and soon you can start your trucking career.

Gaining enough knowledge and skill will help you grow your experience in the driving field. Your effort is needed to achieve your CDL.