Total Newbie Here

I'm crushed right now. I'm being sent home.

Back in January, I was diagnosed with ADHD. Before prescribing me meds, my doctor required a drug test because the recommended meds are highly controlled substances. I failed that test and was prescribed Straterra instead. The doctor at Prime needed some documentation from my doc about the Straterra. Instead of just sending the record from my last visit, which is what Prime requested, my doc sent all my records. This included my failed test. Since it wasn't more than 6 months ago, they count it as admission of drug use. I can go see a drug counselor at home and come back in June. At least they'll let me come back. But for now, I have to take a bus home because I can't afford the flight. I'll have to find a temporary job, too.

Part of me wants to give up - maybe this is my sign that it's not meant to be. But, there is a bigger part of me that is more determined than ever. I just hope I'm choosing the right voice to listen to.

Ouch! That was definitely unexpected. I Don't want to come across as a holier than thou type but this is one of the many reasons it is so important to disclose EVERYTHING that you're being asked honestly, especially when there is a track record of it out there. I really hope everything turns out for you. I'm not sure if your set on prime or not but maybe try one of the other companies you had considered? That failed drug test definitely will be an obstacle to overcome. It doesn't sound like you have a drug problem from what we've heard but seeing that counselor probably would be a huge help to beginning your career. DO NOT GIVE UP. Old school had different issues getting started in this career, and I believe he had been sent home from atleast 2 orientations when he was starting and now he's out there being a top tier driver. Nobody said it would be easy.

If you decide to try somewhere else, be totally upfront. Some companies will pass on you due to the failed drug test but others will atleast give you a chance to explain. Either way it's going to be tough to overcome especially with it being 2 months ago. I really do wish you the best.

To be honest, I wouldn't waste a minute worrying about it. It won't do you any good. You want to drive a truck, right? Then I would apply to as many programs as possible, see who offers you an opportunity, and get out there and become a truck driver.

Part of me wants to give up - maybe this is my sign that it's not meant to be

Baloney. There are a million stories of people who have overcome tremendous obstacles to achieve great things. None of them would have achieved anything if they had just given up because it didn't come easy. Everyone has obstacles of their own to overcome. In this case, remember it only takes one company to give you an opportunity and you're out there cruising the highways in a big rig.

I haven't checked to see if you have already, but you can apply through our site to 7 different companies at once with one quick application:

Apply For Paid CDL Training

You can also apply directly through company websites to a bunch more.

If you want to drive a truck then go make it happen. Don't quit on it. There are people who have overcome a thousand times more difficulties than that. Use that knowledge as inspiration. Start applying to companies and make it happen. Don't waste a minute worrying about the past. Just keep moving forward.

Not sure if you're still around but what's next? Are you going to try getting in elsewhere or are you going to hold off on trucking for now?

I called around to some places and asked if they'd take me under the circumstances. They all, of course, said no. I'm home now, getting over the flu. I applied today to CR England. I will see what happens with them. And in the meantime, I'll drive for Uber, Lyft, and Shipt. I'll keep you all posted.

Hang in there and never give up on your dreams. Of course the failed drug test is a blemish and companies worry about that but it does not mean that someone won't eventually give you the chance to be able to fulfill those dreams. Take it one step at a time and if it is meant to be then the timing will be right. People all make mistakes and we hopefully learn from them and not make them again, only time can prove that. Keep your head up and know that if you stay the course and fight for yourself. You have done all you can on the research which is good and not many do that and realize that this isn't the life for them. I am currently in school for CFI and I am pleased with how things are going right now and cannot wait to get on the road in fulfilling my dream as well. It all starts with a dream, where we take it from there is up to us.