posted by maggie on Mar 18
A Commercial Motor Vehicle Driver’s License (CDL) is imperative for any person operating a vehicle weighing over 26,000 pounds. In order to obtain a CDL, one must pass a test. There are schools available all over the country specializing in training potential truck drivers, test preparation, and ensuring that only the safest and most qualified drivers receive their CDL. While attending school is not a technical requirement for passing the CDL test, it is unparalleled training and many employers look favorably upon proof of driver school experience.
Every state recognizes the same basic process for CDL certification. First, a potential candidate must get a CDL permit specific to the state in which they will be licensed. There is a written permit exam that can be taken at any Department of Motor Vehicles office and once passed, the permit allows an individual to operate a commercial vehicle only when a CDL licensed driver accompanies them in the passenger seat. Typically, permits expire after six months and the majority of candidates enroll in truck driving school during this time.
Because all licensed CDL’s must operate by the same rules and codes of conduct, all truck driving schools teach more or less the same information. There are three different options for training and the choice ultimately comes down to a matter of personal preference. First, private training requires a more costly tuition as lessons are being taught for a profit. Secondly, public driving school is state-owned and operated. A technical school or local community college could offer options for training at a significantly lower cost than private classes. Lastly, several trucking companies offer training tailored to their company and their vehicles. This can be a great option because the company will likely hire out of those classes and will waive tuition costs for an employment contract.
The duration of truck driving school varies based on class lengths and time available. There are full time and part time options with full time training lasting an average of six weeks and part time class spanning nearly six months. A potential student should ensure that their program is certified by the Professional Truck Driver Institute (PTDI) and guarantees passing of the CDL. A student can take the CDL exam at a Department of Motor Vehicles branch post training or whenever they feel they are adequately prepared. The exam consists of both written and practical sections. The practical portion of the text could include tasks like conducting a brake test or demonstrating how to properly inspect the entire vehicle. Once passed, a student will be issued their CDL and are state recognized as a capable operator of commercial vehicles. They are now free to begin their new career behind the wheel and should begin seeking out trucking insurance right away.