Central Texan

Just wonderin if there's any truckers here? I'm lookin to get my CDL to start as a regional driver.

spitzair

I guess you could call me one... I drive dump truck at the moment, the odd time with a pony or flatbed equipment trailer. I used to pull End dump quite a bit, but I much prefer the single unit or dump with pony. Much stabler. A CDL shouldn't be a big deal to get, but then again I have no what the regulations are like where you are. If you can get some time in with someone who's been in the business for some time you'll learn tons. I never had that luxury so I had to figure everything out as I went along. I'm still learning, but then again isn't everyone? All the best and good luck with your driving career. It can be and will be challenging in the beginning and quite rewarding in the end.

Central Texan

Thanks a lot, I appreciate that. Most folks I talk to are trying to talk me out if it. My uncle is a long hauler and drives all over the country, I'd prefer to stay in the south. Anyway, I dont realy have access to anybody that can give me any cab time or anything, so it's pretty much up to a driving school for me.<br><br>Getting the CHL isnt a big deal. I need to go to the Department of Motor Vehicles and get the application and a study book. Then take a writen test that will give me a driving permit. After that is when I need the cab time or go to a driving school before taking the driving test to get the license.<br><br>I'm single and live alone, so the &quot;away from home&quot; time isnt a bother. My dad is being real supportive. I figured he'd be the most against it as he usualy shoots down every other idea I have (he's against me selling my F-350 for a 3500 : ) but that's just the way he is. He's actually talking about taking the school with me! He retired from the computer world 4 months ago and is looking for something to occupy his time. Who knows, maybe in a few years we can start our own hauling outfit! ;D 8)

Marine

I used to drive 7 axle logging trucks, 18 wheel flatbeds and a bunch of other trailers before I went into the Corps. If you want to travel (I see you are single) join the USMC.<br><br>Mike

Redleg

Army myself, service was good to me. Definitely get you some transportation experience/training. Some bases even have anual job fairs for guys getting out. Lots of Criminal justice and trucking recruiters. Big company's bring their best rigs for display and sign-on bonus.

pappyman

The large truck companys like JB Hunt,Schneider,MS Carriers hire rookie drivers straight outta CDL schools some will even pay for CDL training<br><br>http://www.schneider.com/drivers/training.html

richard

I used to haul oversize loads. Mostly cranes, 100' long, 14' wide, If you were lucky 13'6&quot; high, but not always.<br>Most of the time well over 120,000#<br>9 axles,lots of strobe lights, escorts, permits out the wazoo.<br>The one thing that I will tell you about being a truck driver is you must PAY ATTENTION!<br>Every day you will be cut off, and not always by a car or pickup truck, Yes sometimes it will be by another trucker.<br>There are a lot of cowboys out there, watch out!<br>Do not go any faster than you feel comfortable with.<br>Meaning that you know how long it will take you to stop, just be ready, brake checks are frequent.<br>If you are not familiar with the road that you are on, slow down.<br>One more thing, take care of your equipment and it will take care of you.<br><br>Be safe,<br>Rich 8) 8)