If you're considering a career in trucking, you're in luck! Many trucking companies offer comprehensive training programs to help you get started. Whether you're looking to begin a career in transportation but lack the required skills and certification, or you're simply exploring options, these training opportunities provide excellent pathways into the industry.
In this blog post, we'll explore some of the top trucking companies that train drivers, the type of commercial driver's license (CDL) you'll need, and various other CDL training options available.
Why Choose Trucking Companies That Train Drivers?
Trucking companies that offer driver training programs provide a streamlined path into the industry. These companies often cover the cost of training and certification, making it easier for you to start your career without significant upfront investment. Additionally, many companies offer guaranteed employment upon successful completion of the training, ensuring that you start earning as soon as you become a licensed driver.
TOP Trucking Companies That Train Drivers
If you decide that paid CDL training is for you, there are many trucking companies from which to choose. Your decision will be highly personal based on your situation, but here are a few of the many trucking companies that offer training.
- Based in Murray, KY, Paschall Truck Lines is a 100% employee-owned trucking company with the highest-paid training in the trucking industry. PTL offers experienced Driver Mentors and one of the best on-the-job training programs to help its drivers gain the knowledge and experience they need to get the most out of their driving careers.
- Roehl Transport’s “Get Your CDL job & truck driver training” gets you ready to test for your Class A CDL just like a private truck driving school. However, because you are an employee on day one of training, you're getting paid CDL instruction.
- Schneider is committed to helping new and returning drivers start their careers off right, offering company-paid CDL training options. The CDL Apprentice Training (CA) program is a 5-7.5 week program, providing the knowledge and skills to become a Schneider driver. For drivers who have received prior CDL training, Schneider offers tuition reimbursement through monthly installments of $200. Schneider offers a supportive work environment with various career paths and advancement opportunities.
- Western Express offers a comprehensive paid training program for new CDL-A holders. The program equips drivers with the essential skills to drive confidently and provides up to $6,000 in tuition reimbursement for recent graduates. Upon completing the student driver program, participants can choose to get their own truck or become a team driver. Start your journey with Western Express today.
Types of Commercial Drivers Licenses
To become a truck driver, you'll need to obtain a CDL. There are three primary types of CDLs, each corresponding to different types of vehicles and driving conditions:
- A Class A commercial driver’s license is required to operate any combination of vehicles with a gross vehicle weight rating of 26,001 lbs. or more, including a towed vehicle that is heavier than 10,000 pounds. You must be over 21 and carry a Class A license to drive across state lines.
Typical vehicles driven by Class A CDL truck drivers include long-haul trucks, flatbeds, and tankers.
- Class B drivers operate any single vehicle that has a GVWR of 26,001 pounds or more, provided towing does not exceed 10,000 pounds.
Drivers with a Class B CDL license typically drive delivery trucks, buses, and dump trucks.
- A Class C CDL is required to operate a vehicle that is designed to transport 16 or more occupants (including you, the driver) or transport hazardous materials (HazMat), materials that are classified as hazardous under federal law and do not fall under the classifications of other licenses.
Examples of typical vehicles falling into the Class C CDL level include passenger vans and vehicles transporting hazardous materials.
To begin training for a CDL license, a prospective driver must first obtain a CDL learner's permit. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration offers the following points to keep in mind when applying for your CDL learner’s permit:
- Your driving record will be checked for the past 10 years in all 50 states and the District of Columbia.
- You must present proof of medical qualification.
- You may need to pass a DOT physical to obtain a DOT medical card.
- You must possess your learner’s permit for at least 14 days before taking the Skills test to earn your CDL.
Different Types of CDL Training
One of the first decisions a prospective driver will need to make is what type of training to pursue. The type of CDL training you choose is a matter of personal choice. Each route will allow you to obtain your CDL and move into the driver's seat.
1. Company-Sponsored Training: Many trucking companies train drivers, such as those mentioned earlier. This training is often free or low-cost, with the company covering tuition in exchange for a commitment to work for them for a specified period.
By aligning their training curriculum with actual operational procedures, routes, and equipment, trucking companies ensure their trainees become effective drivers right away after completing the program.
2. Private CDL Schools: Independent schools that provide CDL training offer various programs ranging from a few weeks to several months. They usually provide a comprehensive curriculum and flexible schedules.
Private trucking schools are independently owned and operated and not associated with any particular trucking company. As a result, the training you receive is universal to the trucking industry rather than geared to the needs of one carrier.
A private training school will typically require the student to bear the cost of tuition and other expenses upfront. Depending on your needs, students will usually choose to attend a driving school nearby and commute for the duration of the training program. While some private training programs offer job placement assistance, at the end of the program, the driver is free to join any trucking company they like.
3. Community College Programs: Some community colleges offer CDL training as part of their vocational or continuing education programs. These programs often provide a broader educational experience and may include additional career services.
Understanding CDL Training
CDL training is essential for preparing to pass the CDL exam and become a licensed commercial driver. Training typically covers several key areas:
1. Classroom Instruction: Covers safety regulations, vehicle operation, and federal trucking laws. Students learn about hours of service, cargo securement, and emergency procedures.
Prospective truck drivers must learn established trucking rules and regulations to ensure their safety, the safety of the cargo they are carrying, and other drivers on the road.
- Did you know that there are load weight limits that must be followed?
- Did you know that you can only drive for a certain amount of time before you are required to take a break?
- Do you know how to check your truck and ensure that everything is running properly and efficiently?
- Do you know where to go or who to call should your truck break down?
- Do you know the procedures and policies for getting to safety if your truck starts giving you problems?
These are some of the questions that your employer will require you to know, understand, and follow when you are out on the road. Proper training will educate drivers, allowing them to pass their CDL test and learn what to do in case of an emergency or situation.
2. Behind-the-Wheel Training: Provides practical experience in operating a commercial vehicle. Students practice maneuvers such as parking, backing, and driving in various conditions.
3. Pre-Trip Inspections: Training includes how to conduct a thorough pre-trip inspection to ensure the vehicle is safe and compliant with regulations.
It's important to understand what you're getting into. CDL training is one of the most important phases in your trucking career. While it usually lasts less than a month, your time in training will deliver essential knowledge that you will use for a life-long career in the trucking industry.
Trucking companies that provide driver training offer excellent career opportunities for those seeking to enter the transportation industry. With the right commercial driver's license (CDL) and high-quality training, you can embark on a rewarding career path with ample room for growth and advancement. Whichever training option you pursue, the caliber of instruction you receive will significantly shape your future success in the trucking industry and open the door to a wide range of job prospects.
Authored By:
Kate Williams
