Howdy Ginny!
Sorry you haven't received an answer before now, I check in a couple times a week.
Even though you have driven a 26 ft box truck, it is nothing like driving a truck and trailer! In this poor economy, it would be best to go ahead and go through a company, because you need the experience that you will get from them. A year is nothing in learning to drive a big truck and going through a company you are guaranteed getting hired if you pass the training. Most of those companies are self-insured which is a good deal if you are involved in incidents (preventable).
People that are going through community colleges and private schools are struggling to get hired because most companies require experience of at least 6 months.
Here's some links for you to look through:
Holler if you have questions.
Laura
A CDL is required to drive any of the following vehicles:
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Good evening I'm located in California Bay Area and I'm starting the process of getting my cdl.I currently have been driving a 26ft box locally and now that my son is graduating high school I'm able to move forward in my trucking career. My question is should I do company paid training or try and fund school on my own? Im conflicted because I'm am an owner operator so I can make my own schedule and I do know that with paid training it comes with a contract you must for fill before going on your own.Any suggestions will be greatly appreciated god bless.
CDL:
Commercial Driver's License (CDL)
A CDL is required to drive any of the following vehicles:
Owner Operator:
An owner-operator is a driver who either owns or leases the truck they are driving. A self-employed driver.