I'm looking forward to joining up with WE. Though my recruiter feels all I need is a refresher, I think I'm going to inquire about going through the whole schooling gig, only because even though I've had my cdl for 21 years, I have absolute no tractor trailer exp. The only cdl exp I have is dump truck. Super 14, supper 16. I also have a concern over how to survive and keep up my current bills, and eat, while in school, until the paychecks start coming in. I'll keep checking on your post to see other drivers replies.
Suzanne, I had experience in a tri-axle before learning how to drive a tractor trailer. Driving a semi, 53' long is very, very different. At the very least a refresher is required if for nothing else, learning how to back and maneuver in tight quarters. Ultimately the company you choose will determine what is required to meet their specific qualifications.
I'd also look at Prime and Roehl, both are well suited for maintaining some income while re-schooling.
Good luck.
CDL:
Commercial Driver's License (CDL)
A CDL is required to drive any of the following vehicles:
Any combination of vehicles with a gross combined weight rating (GCWR) of 26,001 or more pounds, providing the gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of the vehicle being towed is in excess of 10,000 pounds.
Any single vehicle with a GVWR of 26,001 or more pounds, or any such vehicle towing another not in excess of 10,000 pounds.
Any vehicle, regardless of size, designed to transport 16 or more persons, including the driver.
Any vehicle required by federal regulations to be placarded while transporting hazardous materials.
OOS:
When a violation by either a driver or company is confirmed, an out-of-service order removes either the driver or the vehicle from the roadway until the violation is corrected.
Suzanne wrote:
Suzanne, I had experience in a tri-axle before learning how to drive a tractor trailer. Driving a semi, 53' long is very, very different. At the very least a refresher is required if for nothing else, learning how to back and maneuver in tight quarters. Ultimately the company you choose will determine what is required to meet their specific qualifications.
I'd also look at Prime and Roehl, both are well suited for maintaining some income while re-schooling.
Good luck.
CDL:
Commercial Driver's License (CDL)
A CDL is required to drive any of the following vehicles:
OOS:
When a violation by either a driver or company is confirmed, an out-of-service order removes either the driver or the vehicle from the roadway until the violation is corrected.