A Rock And Hard Place

Djwag sips some kool aid, but knows what it is:

I did, however, hear some {Swift} horror stories. One particular one that a woman started with them and, apparently, she wasn't "learning fast enough" by the first week and they kicked her out. Now, don't get me wrong, I don't know the entire story and this was second hand information from a for-profit institution trying to get me to spend $10K on a 6 month CDL program

Here is a solid gold rule for dealing with a salesperson who badmouths the competition: Let them blabber on, you smile knowingly, then totally ignore what you just heard. If the salesperson wants to continue badmouthing, just ask them to sell their own company instead of wasting your time.

Second, the CDL thing. You will not be in school very long without one. It is required so that you may drive a semi truck on public roads. So my advice is to get your physical and your permit ASAP.

I went through Swift's school. Some people dropped out because (and I watched this as I was practicing) they simply could not back the trailer into the target zone. For testing, Swift tests you once. If you fail, you get an extra week (no extra charge even for your hotel) to practice, and you test again. There's even a way to test a third time. Does that show patience on the part of the school?

For their own pride, failed students can blame the school (your salesperson's "kicked out" story) instead of themselves.

No driving school will be at a resort. You need to get in and get out as fast as possible. Just focus on what they teach you, and don't go crazy when you practice backing.

As for veterans at Swift, I'm a vet. You take and pass the school. You sign on to drive for Swift like I did. Swift does not take any deduction for the $4400 tuition. After one year of driving (any Swift driving), Swift will credit the entire tuition.

Roehl does not require a cdl they have there own school in Marshfield Wisconsin that's who I got called through and they now pay you while you attend do there school.

I actually talked to a recruiter from Roehl today who told me I needed my permit before school . I live in Ohio

Roehl does not require a cdl they have there own school in Marshfield Wisconsin that's who I got called through and they now pay you while you attend do there school.

I actually talked to a recruiter from Roehl today who told me I needed my permit before school . I live in Ohio

But my wife ( has a cdl A permit) told me its only about 30-50 dollars)

Roehl does not require a cdl they have there own school in Marshfield Wisconsin that's who I got called through and they now pay you while you attend do there school.

I actually talked to a recruiter from Roehl today who told me I needed my permit before school . I live in Ohio

Yes you do need your permit to go to school but if you go thru the High Road Training Program then you will get your permit easy. After you have your permit you go to one of thier schools, i think they have 3 now and they will train and get you tested to get your cdl

Prime has a 100 dollar processing fee to enroll in the program. They also say to bring 50 dollars to pay for your permit if you don't already have it

Josh intra out:

Prime has a 100 dollar processing fee to enroll in the program. They also say to bring 50 dollars to pay for your permit if you don't already have it

A processing, or "seat" fee makes sure all the students have some skin in the game from the get-go. A cash buy-in will keep out some of the riff raff. I went to Swift, and one reason was I didn't have an extra C-note laying around.

As for the DOT physical and the state CDL learner's permit, those charges will come out of your pocket. And, as I said, you'll need that permit before you can practice drive on public roads.

Prime covers the dot physical, but you're on your own for paying for the permit, however you can get your permit during orientation. Definitely know the material for the test though because as a lot of people will tell you, it's hectic in orientation and you don't want to be trying to study on top of everything else you're expected to do. That would go for any company that lets you get the permit once they've brought you in for orientation.

All of this is a lot of great advice and pro-tips. I've been working all day on studying for the permit (at least) which seems to be the general consensus. This is a great start.

Also, I think Celadon might be the way I go. Still doing research, though.

If I read correctly in your original post, you said you are a veteran? Military VET? Do you have any of your Montgomery or Post 9/11 left? I have more VET advice but just want to confirm before I spew out info for you.

~scott

If I read correctly in your original post, you said you are a veteran? Military VET? Do you have any of your Montgomery or Post 9/11 left? I have more VET advice but just want to confirm before I spew out info for you.

~scott

Unfortunately, no. I don't have any remaining educational benefits. However, there is Voc Rehab services that I could work with. I think my concern with that is I'm really chomping at the bit to get started. Based on what I know of this program, it could take until January to be approved for funding...I really don't have that long to wait.