Need Some Advice: CDL Programs And/or Companies

Topic 33717 | Page 1

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Tiki Dave's Comment
member avatar

Aloha! I'm about to begin my CLP/CDL journey and wanted to to turn to experienced drivers, newbies, and anyone who might have some thoughts/insight.

I am in the process of making a decision about where to get my CDL...school or one of the companies that offers the programs to obtain CDLs in exchange for a work commitment. For the companies, I have narrowed it down to Knight and Prime, with Knight a frontrunner, partially die to location. (I live in Las Vegas)

If anyone has experience with either of these companies, please feel free to pass it on...the good and the not so good. From my research, I'm reading many of the same things regarding each company, but I want to hear real world experience and knowledge.

I understand that if I go the company route, I won't necessarily be making the top dollars, but I am well experienced in paying dues and I understand that you have to crawl before you can walk. I would also appreciate thoughts on the CDL programs themselves...I want to go where I have the best chance to become a good, thoughtful, safe driver.

Thanks in advance for the help!

Dave

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.

CLP:

Commercial Learner's Permit

Before getting their CDL, commercial drivers will receive their commercial learner's permit (CLP) upon passing the written portion of the CDL exam. They will not have to retake the written exam to get their CDL.

PJ's Comment
member avatar

Welcome, you have alot packed in a short space.

Bottom line is now is a terrible time in the industry. Best advise: Go to company sponsered training and with who ever is willing to bring you on. You will find success with any of the major companies if you work hard and apply yourself.

Davy A.'s Comment
member avatar

Welcome. It's highly recommended that you go through company provided training for several reasons. One reason is that the large companies have resources and are able to work with a new driver if things get bumped. Another is that you have a job, you come into an industry with zero experience and yet you have a job provided you meet their qualifications. Some carriers even hire you prior to going through their school.

In terms of making top dollars, top tier drivers make top dollars. The drivers that are safe, on time and easy to work with, that consistently produce results become sought after and handed the lions share of the work.

The good thing about this industry is that you are in 100 percent control of weather or not you become a top tier driver. Your performance determines your pay, success or failure.

I'd recommend checking through the links and read up from our CDL diaries section here.

High Road CDL Training ProgramPaid CDL Training ProgramsTruck Driver's Career Guide

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.
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