Well, Tuesday was test day. I was fortunate to pull the entire pre-trip inspection. Knocked that out and missed one item. Not too bad for missions one out of the the entire inspection. I pulled the sight side offset. Knocked that out no problems. Last was the 90 alley dock. I was confident on this one. Backed it right into the spot and cleared it out. Passed all those skills and off to the road test. Completed the road test, and I heard those magical words ‘YOU PASSED!!’ All that relief finally came down and I was pumped. My wife drive up the weekend and we planned on riding home together to Houston so I could get my license taken care of at the DPS office. I walked by her, on my way back to the office, and said It got a curb and need to rest test.’ She just looked at me and then I said, haha I’m kidding. I passed. After a few choice words she laughed. I had to mess with her. Haha
After the test, I signed some papers and began my onboarding as an employee with Wilson. Knocked out simulators, ID Badge, paperwork and getting my fuel card. Signed the CDL First Time Pass board which students sign when they pass the first time. Really impressed on how they did it by recognizing students that pass. Wilson is a family atmosphere and cares about the progression of their employees. Left Springfield, MO around 1600 yesterday and made it back to Houston this morning around 0230-0245.
I have my appointment at the DPS office on Friday to get my license taken completed. Spoke with my new trainer and will hopefully meet up Friday evening or Monday. Just waiting to see when he will be in Houston since he is currently in UT. Going to knock out these 30k miles on my next phase. Excited and ready for this next journey.
I will keep updates on my training. It’s been a great experience.
A pre-trip inspection is a thorough inspection of the truck completed before driving for the first time each day.
Federal and state laws require that drivers inspect their vehicles. Federal and state inspectors also may inspect your vehicles. If they judge a vehicle to be unsafe, they will put it “out of service” until it is repaired.
A CDL is required to drive any of the following vehicles:
Congratulations Spartan! You did good!
Awesome job, Spartan!
Congratulations Spartan!! Looking forward to reading about your adventures!
This is absolutely awesome. I have two daughters and I have been one to think whether I should get into this profession. I love what I hear I start with Wilson on February 20th 2023. I can't wait and I know it's going to be so beneficial for my family after I work my tail off to make sure I'm the best/smartest driver I can be on that road. Thanks again brother and be safe out there.
Been busy the last few days. Day 4 was all pad training. I definitely have down all backing requirements and nailed my in cab inspection when one of the instructors asked me to do it on the spot. I feel really good about where I am at, and just wish I could take my test. Haha. Day 5 started on the pad and left with my trainer at 1130. We went to the store to load up on groceries and get ready. We received a load picking up in Springfield and has two drops-one in AL and the other in GA. Stayed in the truck Friday night and we left to get the trailer Saturday morning. We picked up the trailer at the Prime facility, and went on our way. We didn’t push hard since we have until Monday to get to our destination in AL which is only roughly 500 miles. Stopped in Charleston, MO for the night and sat down to eat which was really nice for a change. Sunday-woke up at 3 am and left out by 345. Arrived in Gadsden, AL at the Petro around 1145. We deliver roughly 20 miles away at 0930 tomorrow morning. So it’s a bunch of sitting until tomorrow, but that’s how it goes. My trainer is awesome. We have a lot in common and he is definitely knowledgeable. I pick his brain as much as I can to get any knowledge. Well, going to study some and get some rest as well. Hope everyone has had a great weekend. I’ll update soon.
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God luck.