Still Researching The Different Training Options

So I know that going to a trucking school where it teaches you everything is the best option, but what about these places that prepare you for the written exam online? If I just study the manual or watch the You Tube videos and take the test and pass it are there places that just offer the hands on driving training part? Are those places cheaper then doing a complete program? Trucking schools are expensive and the paid trainings make me nervous since you have to commit to them for like a year. I mean, what if I got into this and I realized it wasn't for me after all? Any advice, thoughts, comments, help you could give me would be greatly appreciated.

Most companies are gonna want 160 hour certification. On your own is not the route they recommend here. As for commitment a year sounds long but I’m sure it’d go fast and if u don’t like it then atleast stick it out a year if u can then u can find something else or local.

So I know that going to a trucking school where it teaches you everything is the best option, but what about these places that prepare you for the written exam online? If I just study the manual or watch the You Tube videos and take the test and pass it are there places that just offer the hands on driving training part? Are those places cheaper then doing a complete program? Trucking schools are expensive and the paid trainings make me nervous since you have to commit to them for like a year. I mean, what if I got into this and I realized it wasn't for me after all? Any advice, thoughts, comments, help you could give me would be greatly appreciated.

Spunky, watch out for the Cold Feet Syndrome! It's true we encourage people to "go for it", and most of the time it is a good move. We have recommended Brett's book Becoming A Truck Driver: The Raw Truth About Truck Driving for a glimpse of the OTR lifestyle. My short version: living in a room the size of a bathroom; very little face-to-face with people, but also the greatest office window in the USA, constant travel often to places you've never been to, and more.

Yes, you do need 160 hours of training from a recognized school. These schools don't "teach you everything", only what it takes to pass the CDL road test. The rest is covered in your first few weeks with a company.

Now think about which school - "private" or company? Suppose you pony up private tuition either by financing or by draining your savings. Then you realize it's a mistake. Now suppose instead that you go the company school way and you sign the finance contract with them. Then you realize trucking is not for you. In both scenarios you either have thrown your tuition money away or you still need to pay the financing off. What is the difference?

Think again about this career change. Do your research on the trucking life and what it takes. Should you decide to make the move, resolve to sign with some company and get with it. We are here for you. If you think it's better to wait a while, then do that.

Spunkybubbles🤔 I want to hear someone say that over the CB just once. It would make my day

The type of online training you are asking about is available right here High Road CDL Training Program

This is specifically designed to help you pass the CDL permit tests. The permit test is all knowledge-based. No skills to master beforehand. Once you have your permit, then you can move onto actually learning the skills you need to pass the CDL tests (driving, backing, pre trip inspection). Some schools require you to have your permit before attending. Others offer classes to help you obtain your permit before moving onto ""the hands on driving training part".

As Errol noted above, any school you attend will teach you only what you need to pass the CDL test. Learning the actual job requires additional training. Many companies offer paid training. Paid CDL Training Programs Apply For Paid CDL Training

I did the HRTP right here and got my permit BEFORE going to CDL school. But, ya still gotta do either school or company sponsored.