Are you interested in driving a big truck? Do you have little to no experience driving trucks? CDL truck driving jobs can be highly satisfying, well-paying and provide a lot of jobs security. However, you should not enter this profession blindly, so here are some important things to know before you decide to become a commercial truck driver.
What is a CDL Job?
CDL refers to commercial driver’s license which is what you will need to drive a truck. You should consider taking a special instructional program designed to help you meet all the necessary requirements for getting your CDL. The best trucking companies let you apply and then they will reimburse you for the tuition costs.
The first thing you need is a truck driving permit. Like a standard driver’s license, you will be required to take a test and a good CDL course provides classroom training to teach you what’s on the exam. The class will include important things to know so you should have no problem passing your test for a permit. Here are some of the subjects covered for CDL truck driving jobs:
* Proper signals
* Road rules, signs, and regulations
* Map reading
* How to fill out log books
Driving
After you have your permit, you can begin driver training. This puts you behind the wheel of a big rig. You are expected to handle a large truck while it is hauling a heavy load. After all, this is much different than simply driving a big truck by itself.
Another important thing you may have to learn is steering a truck with a semi-trailer and backing up using only mirrors. This may take considerable practice learn how to back a trailer up to a loading dock, in between other trailers. Remember; you cannot turn back while in reverse (like in a car). You are also taught the proper ways to hook and unhook a load.
You will also learn important skills like shifting. Also, it is important to know about truck weight stations and inspections.
School Selection
There are three types of schools you may attend for your CDL training. They are:
* Schools which have met the minimum standards of your state
* Certified schools – these schools have been inspected and provide everything you will need to pass all the requirements of the Department of Transportation (DOT) and the trucking industry.
* Accredited schools – these schools have been accredited by the United States Department of Education.
Costs
You can expect to pay at least $3,000 for your training. This is why you should seek out CDL truck driving jobs with company sponsored training. You’ll need to contact the company before you begin your training, to qualify.
