Profile For Dallas R.

Hello all,

I am new to TT and I am enjoying all the different threads. I know this particular topic has been discussed at length, but I had a recent experience I wanted to share that may be an option for some that are in need of a cheaper alternative to some of the higher cost training schools in the Valley of the Sun; thats Arizona for those of you that dont live in the desert.

Anyhow, I held a commercial license for over 20 years and by accident, allowed it to become invalid (I wasn't driving truck and didn't pay attention) dont make this mistake, keep up on DOT medical exams and know when you CDL expires, I learned the hard way. I found myself in the job market again unexpectedly and had to quickly scramble to get my license back. After spending weeks getting documents in order, such as a new copy of my birth certificate and SS card, I was ready to start the process with the MVD.

Even though I had over 20 years of experience under my belt, I was rusty and needed some exposure to information, I obtained a commercial handbook from MVD and began reading all of the areas that I would eventually test and obtain endorsements in. I dont know about most of you, but I can only read so much before I lose interest and the handbook is as dry as the heat in Arizona; I ultimately gave up on reading the manual. Instead, I focused on studying online endorsement test, which in my opinion is the way to go. There are many sources out there and in my experience, were almost identicle to the actual MVD exams.

After passing my written test, I was on the hunt for an option to test for my license, without having to spend weeks in a training school. This is when I found CDL Training School Inc. in Phoenix, AZ. This is a state certified and authorized 3rd party testing facility. They offer a 7 day training program for a cost of $1499.00. This includes pre-trip training, backing, road time and the skills testing with one retest; in the event you fail, beyond that I think it is a $225.00 retesting fee. like other schools, you need to have your permit for at least two weeks before you can be tested. I initially paid for the week program not knowing how rusty I would be, but I completed the program in 3 days and they refunded me half of the money I paid, which they didn't have to do, but I was very appreciative of their generosity.

I had read several reviews about their program before I signed up and some were not very favorable, probably from individuals who didnt perform well and had to put out additional funds. I personally found the instructors to be very informative and helpful and at reasonable price for what they offer, they dont teach you to be a mechanic, but they give you exactly what you need to pass the exam and make it very easy for those who have never been behind the wheel or who are not mechanically inclined. If you dont want to pay for the 7 day program, they offer time behind the wheel at $75.00 ann hour and the pre-trip portion for $75.00 which you can take as many times as you like for the one time fee. All of their training is one-on-one with the exception of the pre-trip class which is done in a group.

So, there are some cheaper options out there for those of you in Arizona. Just keep in mind that this course won't give you the time you need to be comfotable behind the wheel as you would with a much longer program or a company sponsered training program, but it is an option if you have previous skills and need to get the cobwebs knocked off, or you're just strapped for cash and need a cheaper alternative........