CDL License

Focus

Becoming a truck driver takes a lot of focus.  During truck driving school, you must focus on developing the skills you need to successfully get a CDL license.  In order to do this in just 3-4 weeks, all distractions must be removed.  You can do this by getting all other areas of your life in order.  Make sure your family life is in a good state, you've budgeted for training and most importantly that you're truly ready to make the commitment to make a career change.   

And once you've started your truck driving job, it's important you continue to maintain that focus.  Understand that your job starts everyday in traffic.  While being a safe truck driver means being aware of your surroundings, you cannot become obsessed with what others are doing around you.  If another motorist cuts you off, as the professional driver - you must move on.  If a vehicle stops suddenly in front of you, you must do as you were trained to handle the situation. 

The bottom line is things are going to happen. Rather than you getting caught up with your surroundings and becoming part of the problem, you must become a part of the solution.  Stay focused on the safe operation of your vehicle and life will take care of itself.  

Go here for more truck driving tips  

Apply with Driver Solutions
Complete our secure online application if you're focused on a better 2012 and want to get started by finding a truck driving job that offers CDL training.  Completing the application will allow you to schedule a time to speak with a Driver Agent about your career options.

Nicole Reeves first applied with Driver Solutions about 1 year ago today.  She had always wanted to become a truck driver and when some things finally fell into place in her life she realized it was time to pursue this lifelong dream.  She attended truck driving school in Indianapolis and went to work for PAM Transport. 

Fast forward to a year later and we're happy to report that Nicole Reeves is loving life on the road with PAM Transport!  Just yesterday, she stopped by one of the truck driving schools Driver Solutions works with in Indianapolis, Indiana to visit for awhile.  During that visit she took the time to do a video interview (full video will be posted later this week) to share more about her story as well as tips for new truck drivers. 

Let's Get to Know Nicole :

Living Her Dream
Ever since she first got her driver's license, Nicole has had a CB radio in her car just to listen in on the conversation.  When trucks would pass out on the highway, she'd think about how she'd like to become a truck driver one day.  She's now visited all but 5 of the lower 48 states and is very proud to say, "I love my job!"

Getting Started
While she had not previously held a CDL, Nicole had some experience driving trucks and hauling things from other jobs which made areas of truck driver training such as backing up a bit easier for her.  She really enjoyed her time at trucking school, stays in contact with some classmates and stops by for a visit when her schedule allows.

Positive Attitude & Communication
Nicole has a positive relationship with her dispatcher which helps make communication between the two much easier.  She recommends asking for home time as far in advance as possible and always asking to be home a day earlier than needed to plan for any schedule changes that may come up.  She says that having a positive attitude as a truck driver is key. 

Budgeting for Meals on the Road
Nicole typically visits Wal-Mart to get her groceries and has a budget of roughly $50-$60 per week for food.  She recommends having quick, healthy snacks available and avoiding highly-caffeinated drinks as much as possible. 

What About the Miles and Pay?
She is really enjoying her time with PAM Transport and averages around 2,500 - 2,700 miles per week, though she just wrapped up a 3,900 mile run to California.  She's happy with the money she's making as a truck driver as it's allowed her to provide for her family.  She plans on staying with PAM Transport for several years beyond her 1 year anniversary with the company

Helpful Hint
She also mentions that velcro is a truck driver's best friend.  She uses velcro on her CB radio as well as many other items around the truck.

Be sure to check back later this week for more from Nicole! 

Interested in CDL training and trucking jobs with PAM Transport?  Complete our online application to schedule a time to speak with a driver agent about your career options today!

If you're just starting to explore a career in truck driving, you might be wondering where an entry-level truck driving job can take you. What if we told you that you could travel across several countries - including some across an ocean? In this series, we're introducing you to our guest video blogger Jerry Ott, also known as "Bullfrog" among his friends and peers.

Jerry has a YouTube channel and video series called Big Rig Talk where he talks about and showcases his long career on the road. In the next few posts, Jerry will be talk about his background in truck driving -- and his unique experience overseas as a truck driver in Iraq! Watch the video to get acquainted with Jerry, and check back soon for the next part of this video post series.



Jerry has been in the truck driving industry for over 25 years. He started out with driving heavy tow trucks and wreckers and eventually grew tired of those vehicles and desired to drive a tractor trailer. With a little help from his family, he went to truck driving school and got his Class A endorsement on his drivers license. As a Canadian, his drivers license holds everything relating to his truck driving privileges including the Class A, Z air brakes endorsement, and medical card. In Canada, there is no such thing as a "Commercial Driver's License", and the drivers license can be upgraded or downgraded at any time by the Ministry of Transportation.

In 1993, Jerry got the opportunity to do "cross-border" truck driving and has been doing it ever since. He's been to every province in Canada except Prince Edward Island and Newfoundland, and all the lower 48 United States, many times over. He's hauled every kind of trailer, from reefer to flatbed. He's driven over two million miles, accident-free! He believes one of the things that makes truck driving jobs so great is the travel - you're essentially a paid tourist.

Jerry currently works with flatbed trucks on a semi-dedicated lane. He's home every weekend, but his routes somewhat vary between different customers which he prefers since it mixes up his routine. While he's on a dedicated route with plenty of home time now, he started out like all other new truck drivers start out: by paying their dues and spending a couple of years out on the road. But Jerry thinks new truckers shouldn't be discouraged - there's a lot of opportunity out there, and the trucks they'll be getting placed in these days are very comfortable and well-equipped.

Jerry is a great example of how approaching an entry-level truck driving job with hard work and a positive attitude can open up a wealth of opportunities from extensive travel, great benefits, and the perfect position for you.

Check back soon to learn more about Jerry's experience driving a truck overseas in Iraq. If you have any questions for Jerry, leave a comment and he'll answer them in a future video.

Thousands of new truck drivers hit the road every year to deliver the things we want and need.  In order to help make the holidays just a little bit easier, Driver Solutions created a Free Truck Driver Holiday Survival Guide to help these truck drivers make it through the ever so busy holiday season. 

We understand that there's a lot to do to become a professional truck driver, including meeting Department of Transportation minimum requirements, getting CDL training, and earning your Class A CDL license. If that isn’t a challenge enough, once you're on the road you have to adjust to the trucker lifestyle and get used to spending time away from your family.

This survival guide was written for trucking students, new truck drivers, and even experienced drivers as a tool full of practical holiday tips to make trucking during the holidays less stressful for both drivers and their families.

The survival guide includes tips for:

• Trucker gift ideas
• Money saving tips
• Safe driving tips
• Tips for reducing stress
• Places to see
• New Year’s goals.

If you need a little extra holiday advice this season, just take a few seconds to fill out this simple form to get the FREE Truck Driver Holiday Survival Guide right away. As a bonus for filling out the form, we’ll keep you updated regularly by email with more free CDL training information and the latest info on truck driver jobs.

Truck drivers help make the holidays special by hauling the many products we give as gifts all across the country. Make sure you share this survival guide with a trucker this season to help keep their holidays bright as well.

Every day starts off just about the same way.  You wake up, read the paper while drinking your coffee and look for a new job that's better than the one you're in now...

Does that sound like your 2011?

You see, maybe it's not so much that your job is really THAT bad as it is that the only thing you see ahead of you is a dead end and a life of living paycheck to paycheck. 

After awhile, you begin to realize that no matter where you look you're just seeing the same types of jobs over and over.  Then you begin to remember some things that ran through your head when you were growing up... 

You remember what it felt like to sit on your grandpa's lap in his HUGE semi truck and pretend like YOU were driving by turning the wheel from side to side.  You remember that feeling you got standing next to your dad's big rig when he was showing you what that big diesel engine looked like under the hood. 

Finally, you begin to realize that maybe it's time to make a change and go after something you've always thought about...maybe it's time to become a truck driver.


You are not alone...

Over the last 23 years, Driver Solutions has helped over 20,000 people realize their dreams of becoming a truck driver. 

And many of these drivers had no experience prior to starting CDL training.  None at all.  In just over 3 weeks, they were able to obtain a CDL license and start a new career as a professional truck driver. 

Why?  Because these individuals were able to work with trucking companies that pay for CDL training.


Matt's Truck Driver Training Story

Let's take Matt for example.  He was literally shaking after he climbed down from behind the wheel of an 18-wheeler for the first time during truck driver training.  He was nervous.  He was overwhelmed.  But he wanted more. 

You see, he knew right away the things he'd done correctly and the things he needed to work on.  All it took was that feeling that comes with operating a vehicle that large to ignite his fire to learn more.  While he was a bit frustrated on some of the things he'd missed, he couldn't wait to get back up there to try again.  You could literally see the thoughts running through his head as he began reciting how he should have shifted during some of the turns.  

Through the next 2 weeks, Matt was able to develop his skills and become a confident driver.  Truck driver training enabled him to pass the CDL test, obtain a CDL license and ultimately start a new career.  


So, what is the point here?

The point is that Matt had a goal and didn't give up when times got tough.  After being layed off from the USPS, he knew it was his time to make a change.  Suddenly that career he'd always thought about became a reality because the timing was right.

Things weren't always easy for Matt.  Whether it was spending hours by himself memorizing the pre-trip inspection or putting in the extra effot on the range, but he got it done. 

A new career wasn't handed to Matt, he made it himself with the help of classmates and instructors. 


How Did Company Sponsored CDL Training Help?

With a program such as company sponsored CDL training, this opportunity exists for any qualified individuals who are ready to make change.  One of the great things about truck driving is that age doesn't really matter much.  As long as you're over 22, you qualify for company sponsored CDL training programs.  Many people, like Matt, become truck drivers in their 2nd, 3rd or even 4th career. 

If you've thought about becoming a truck driver and find yourself in a similar situation to Matt, you might ask yourself if 2012 is going to be your year?

If you'd like to get more information on the Driver Solutions CDL training program to learn about the truck driver job opportunities that will be available in 2012, go ahead an complete our secure online application.  This will allow you to schedule a time to speak with a Driver Agent about your options in the trucking industry.  

We wish you the best in 2012!  Make it YOUR year!

Driver Solutions values all of the drivers that go through our program, but on Veterans Day we especially want to say thank you to all of the veterans that are now truckers. Military members have long helped keep the country safe with their service, and now many of them are helping to keep the economy moving by driving a truck.

According to the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs, Veterans Day is set aside to thank and honor all those who served honorably in the military, both living and those that died from battle. The day is largely intended to thank living veterans for the sacrifice and duty they have given to the country.

While some military members may not have any large vehicle driving experience, a lot of veterans get a taste for truck driving when they learn how to drive big military vehicles. Unfortunately though, military driving licenses do not smoothly transfer to civilian CDL jobs. Both experienced and novice veterans need to go through a truck driver training program to receive a CDL and qualify for the top trucking jobs.

The great news is that many trucking companies like to hire veterans because of their extraordinary work ethic, discipline, and dedication. Companies know that military veterans are committed to service and are consistently able to follow through with orders. Plus, many veterans have already received basic training on map reading, how to keep accurate records and how to think quickly to respond to emergencies. All of these skills transfer almost seamlessly to a trucking career.

Are you a veteran that wants to learn more about trucking? Check out some of our past articles that highlight why truck driving is a great option for veterans:

• Truck Driving is a Veteran-Friendly Job Option
• Truck Driving Is A Rewarding Post-Military Career
• Retired Military Personnel and People Looking to Change Careers Enter the Trucking Industry
• Veterans On The Road

Truck driver jobs are some of the most stable, solid paying jobs in the country today. Complete our online application and let Driver Solutions help you start a rewarding truck driving career.
 

Several big reasons that many people decide to pursue entry level truck driving jobs include the ability to travel, great job stability, and the possibilty to earn between $35,000 and $40,000 in the first year. But actually finding a job can be frustrating if you don't know where to start. The key to finding an entry level truck driving job and starting your career on the right foot is to choose the best truck driver training program.

Before you jump into any commitments, you need to decide if you are ready for an entry level trucking job, and should ask yourself several questions:

• Do you meet the Department of Transportation’s minimum qualifications and medical requirements?
• Will you be able to control one of the most powerful machines on the road?
• Are you willing to travel for several weeks at a time as an over-the-road driver?
• Can you adjust to the truck driver lifestyle?
• Are you willing to spend 3 weeks at CDL school to get the specialized training you need?

If you answered yes to all of these questions, you may be ready to start your truck driving career. But now you may be wondering, where can you find the CDL training you need AND job opportunities?

At Driver Solutions, we work with a network of the top trucking schools and trucking companies to offer great CDL training and help students start their careers succesfully.  Through our company paid CDL training program, we will work with you to get the best CDL training possible. Best of all, Driver Solutions qualifies you for a job opportunity BEFORE you begin CDL training. Driver Solutions reviews your information, qualifies your application, and makes sure that you’re qualified for an entry level trucking job all BEFORE you begin truck driving school.

When you complete your truck driver training in as little as 3 weeks, you will be qualified to earn your CDL license. You'll be on the road in no time!

Let Driver Solutions take the stress out of finding an entry level driving job. Complete our online application to schedule a time to speak with a Driver Agent about your options for getting started. 

If you are thinking about starting a trucking career, it’s vital that you have the right tools to help you learn and find success. The first thing you need to do is look for an effective training program that can teach you the skills and information needed to earn your CDL.

The best CDL training schools should have trainers with several years experience in the trucking industry, and should provide opportunities for students to learn rules and regulations in a classroom as well as get hands on driving experience.

Another great way to learn is from other drivers' experiences. We’ve put together a few quick links to some of the most helpful interviews of students that have gone through the Driver Solutions company-paid CDL training program.

Check out these articles and interviews to get some great tips on what to expect from trucking driving school:

•    Making Friends at Truck Driving School
•    Tips on Passing the Pre-trip Inspection
•    3 Part Interview with a USA Truck Driver
•    Getting a CDL License at Truck Driving School
•    Trucking School – It’s What You Make It

Driver Solutions is devoted to providing drivers with the right tools to start a successful career in the trucking industry. Our hassle-free training program offers an environment that fosters learning, allowing you to get your CDL and find great opportunities for your career.

If you’re ready to jump into the driver’s seat, take a few minutes to complete our online driver application and learn more about your trucking career options.

Deciding to become a professional truck driver is one of the best career choices you can make today.  A career as a professional truck driver can open the door to many opportunities that can positively impact your life - including great pay and a stable environment.

You have probably found yourself asking, what exactly do you have to do to become a professional truck driver?

First, you must meet the basic requirements of the US Department of Transportation and hold a Class A CDL license. The DOT requires you to pass a physical exam to make sure you are fit enough to handle the responsibilities of truck driving. The CDL ensures that truck drivers meet the minimum requirements for the safe operation of a tractor trailer. In addition to a standard general knowledge test, truck drivers must also obtain endorsements by passing the combination vehicle and air brake knowledge tests.  Potential truck drivers need to learn not only how to operate a truck, but they must also learn the rules and regulations that truck drivers must follow.

To get started, you should contact the best truck driver training school in the country and ask for career options based on your skills, background, and goals. Finding a program that can accommodate your needs is vital. A truck driving school should not only help you learn all of the information needed to get your CDL, but should also help you find truck driving jobs after graduation.

What do I do next?

Just like any career path, a trucking career is going to have its challenges. Driver Solutions provides the tools to potential truck drivers to help them overcome some of the challenges they may face. Driver Solutions uses a proven method of training that brings out the best driver in students, then works to match students up with a company in the Driver Solutions Network.

Starting your CDL training and a trucking career with Driver Solutions can happen in just 6 simple steps:

1.       Review our trucking career opportunities

2.       Complete the online application

3.       Speak with a Driver Agent to discuss the Driver Solutions program

4.       Driver Solutions qualifies your application

5.       Attend CDL training at a Driver Solutions-approved truck driving school

6.       Begin driving for your new trucking company

Once you qualify and complete these six steps, you'll be on the road to success! Complete our online driver application today to schedule a time to speak with a Driver Agent about your career options.

Are you trying to find companies that are offering truck driver jobs with no experience required?


Even if you've found a company with entry level trucking jobs available, you may be wondering how you go about getting started if you have no previous experience behind the wheel of a big rig... 

Surely you have to go through some type of training before they let you take the wheel of a semi tractor trailer, right?

Let's break everything down into 3 super simple steps to explaining how the Driver Solutions company paid CDL training program can help you get a trucking career started:

1. Complete Secure Online Driver Application - You are going to need truck driver training so you can get a CDL license to qualify for a job as a professional driver.  By completing the online application, Driver Solutions can work to find a trucking school in your area.  In addition to this, we will answer any questions you have about the trucking industry.
   
   
2. Consider Company Paid CDL Training - One of the biggest hurdles in starting a career in trucking is the cost associated with training.  It's for this reason that Driver Solutions offers the company paid CDL training option.  This means that a trucking company such as PAM Transport or USA Truck will sponsor your training and cover the upfront tuition costs.
   
   
3. Successfully Complete CDL Training & Start Your Career - We will work to qualify your application for a trucking job opportunity and schedule you to attend trucking school - that's right - we do the work for you as long as your application meets the requirements of the training progam.  Upon obtaining your CDL license at the end of training, you'll have the opportunity to start a new trucking career with a company you've agreed to work with for a period of 1 year.

While these 3 steps may seem simple enough, you still need to start from step 1.  So, go ahead and complete our secure online application so you can schedule a time to speak with a Driver Agent today.

There are a lot of things aspiring drivers like you can do to prepare for their first truck driving position. As student in training the main thing you have to get ready for is the CDL exam, which is the starting point of any truck driver's career. Once you have successfully completed your training, passed the driving exam and received your CDL license, you'll be more confident to take on driving jobs as you will have the necessary skills to be an efficient and safe truck driver.

Want to learn more about the ins and outs of entry level driving jobs?  Check out these posts below:

PAM Trucking – Entry Level Trucking Jobs: a post about the various entry-level job opportunities for applying truck drivers. 

Company Paid CDL Training to Find Entry Level Trucking Jobs: Truck driver training doesn't have to be expensive. With company-sponsored training, you can easily start your trucking career.

Entry Level Trucking Jobs – How Much Money Can I Make: Learn about how much an entry level trucker can earn and understand why a lot of people are switching to this career.

If you're considering a trucking career, go ahead and complete our online application to schedule a time to speak with a Driver Agent about your options for getting started. 

As an aspiring truck driver, you should check out these FREE CDL training resources to help you become familiar with the industry:


Tips for New Truck Drivers - Get several CDL training school and OTR tips you can follow. These tips will help you prepare for your CDL exam and help you obtain your license quickly.

Looking for a Class A Truck Driver Job - There are many employment opportunities in the industry today. One of the opportunities many aspiring drivers want to get into is a company sponsored training program. Knowing how to take full advantage of these opportunities will be very helpful in your career. 

My Wonderful Experience at Truck Driving Training School. Be inspired by a story of a Driver Solutions graduate. Learn how truck driving has given him another chance for a better future not only for himself but also for his family.

Join us on Facebook and stay connected with us on Twitter to know more about our programs, promos and contests.

Truck driving is physically and mentally tiring. If you are a truck driver, or are planning to be one, it's important for you to know that above anything else, you should make sure that you are healthy enough to drive.

Before receiving your license and sometimes before being admitted to a truck driver training school, you may have to undergo a physical exam where your blood pressure, eyesight and other functions will be evaluated. Once you're employed, you will still be required to attend periodic check ups to make sure your health is not deteriorating. One of the common problems truck drivers have is their eating habits. Because it's hard to get a healthy meal on the road, many drivers often resort to eating in fast food restaurants. Fast food, while it may fill your stomach, has very little nutrients.

You can avoid eating fast foods by knowing healthy food alternatives. Knowing how to make a simple salad you can snack on is a good alternative to French Fries and chips. Fresh fruits are better dessert options than chocolate bars.

All these combined with regular exercise will keep you fit and healthy enough to take the different responsibilities of a truck driver. Be a Driver Solutions driver today and take advantage of great truck driving opportunities. Join us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter for more information on our program.

Truck driving is a career that offers great benefits and high earnings potential, that is if you know where to look for the right kind of jobs and if you have the right qualifications. To start your trucking career, you first have to attend a truck training program, pass your driver's exam and obtain your Commercial Driver's License (CDL). Upon completing these initial steps, you're considered qualified to pursue an entry level trucking job.

Here are some articles about the different career opportunities you can get as a qualified truck driver.

Is a PAM Transport Trucking Career For You?- PAM is one of the leading trucking companies in the country today. Are you qualified to be one of their drivers?

Wanted: 140,000 Truck Drivers For 2011- There are literally thousands of opportunities for you in the trucking industry. There is no better time to start a career in truck driving than right now.

Learn More About USA Truck- Start your career with USA Truck. If you are worried about tuition costs, you can apply for a company-sponsored program and we can help you start your training immediately.

Driver Solutions can help you start a successful career in the trucking industry. Take a few minutes to complete our online driver application and you'll be able to schedule a time to speak with a Driver Agent about your trucking career options. 

Are you looking for a new career in one of the most stable industries in the country? Are you a hard worker that is motivated to succeed and make up to $40,000 in your first year of work? Are you looking to open the door to advancement opportunities? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then you may be the perfect fit for a new career in truck driving!

A truck driving career can offer you a life of job stability, an impressive salary, and the freedom of life on the road.  But now you may be asking yourself:

• where am I going to get the training to properly drive a semi truck?
• how am I going to afford the permits and licensing requirements?
• And most importantly, how am I going to afford the CDL training?

In order to turn your hopes into reality, you need to choose the right training program, and Driver Solutions may be the answer for you with our industry leading company-paid CDL training.

Check out these 5 reasons to start a truck driving career with Driver Solutions:

1)      Driver Solutions is the leader in company-paid CDL training. Truck companies want to hire well trained, professional truck drivers that have attended an accredited truck driving school. Driver Solutions has been in business since 1992 and has developed great relationships with top-notch trucking companies.

2)      Driver Solutions qualifies you for a job opportunity BEFORE you begin CDL training. Driver Solutions reviews your information, qualifies your application, and makes sure that you’re qualified for a truck driving job with a Driver Solutions Network trucking company all BEFORE you begin truck driving school.

3)       You don’t have to have any experience in truck driving to qualify. The unique Driver Solutions program was specially developed for entry level drivers who don’t have past experience or training in truck driving. Driver Solutions offers its candidates all of the tools to succeed in a new trucking career.

4)      Your future career opportunities are endless! The trucking industry is one of the fastest growing markets in the nation. If you’ve decided that a CDL or professional truck driver career is on your horizon, then you’re looking at a bright future.

5)      Getting started with Driver Solutions is easy with the simple step-by-step process. The simple six step process leads applicants through registration, training, testing, licensing, and job orientation. Throughout the process each applicant will have the individualized support of a personal Driver Agent that will be able to offer recommendations regarding the best opportunities and answer questions. Driver Solutions will be there for the applicants, each step of the way.

Are you ready to make the leap? Check out reviews from past Driver Solutions graduates and get started with your new truck driving career!

Facebook is just one of the many ways that Driver Solutions communicates about our CDL training program and trucking job opportunities. Our Facebook page allows you to stay up-to-date with blog posts, as well as all the contests we have going on. With hundreds of new students starting every week at trucking schools within the Driver Solutions Network, we want to make sure that everyone has the information they need to start a great career out on the open road.

Our Facebook page allows truck drivers to post pictures from their travels, interact with other truck drivers, share their stories, and ask us any question they might have about our company-paid CDL training program.

One aspect of our Facebook page that we really want to highlight for visitors is our custom tabs. We created these custom tabs to give you easy, instant access to our truck driver training school application, any contests we have going on, and to share your truck driving stories.

Check out the details on these pages:

•   Apply Now & Make Up to $40,000 in 1^st Year: With the help of Driver Solutions, beginning a new truck driving job has never been easier. We use a simple six step process that leads applicants through registration, training, testing, licensing, and job orientation.  Use the “Apply Now” tab to start the application and complete the first step to a brighter future.
  
  
• Win $200 – Truck Driver Appreciation Giveaway: We recently celebrated National Truck Driver Appreciation Week from September 11^th-17^th, but we truly believe that truck drivers deserve appreciation year round. This tab highlights our current giveaway and gives directions on how to enter. 
  
  
•  Tell Us About Your Driver Solutions Experience: We love to hear from truck driver training graduates and even those still in training. Use this page to share your story and tell us about your truck driver training experience.

Are you looking for a fun pit-stop with easy access to CDL training information? Join Driver Solutions on Facebook to stay connected with us!

As a new truck driver, it's only natural for your employer to have high expectations after you graduate and start your truck driver job with the company.

To meet and exceed those expectations, you need to fall back with confidence on your CDL training to keep your performance at par with the standards set by the truck company or fleet you're with. This is also one of the main reasons you should choose with care which school to pick to train with and help you achieve your commercial driver's license.

The video below further shows how excellent trucking training can give you an edge over your new colleagues and other truck drivers.



Learn more trucker tips and secrets by signing up for our email updates (see upper right of this blog) or complete our online driver application to take the first step on a trucking career.

Gone are the days when you just hop in a truck and drive. Today, to qualify for truck driving jobs, you need to have a commercial drivers license. In order to obtain this, you must pass the CDL exams given by your state. To increase your chances of passing this test and making your way to a profitable career, it's a good idea that you attend a reputable training school that can teach you about the ins and outs of truck driving.

There are a lot of things you have to know and procedures you have to learn to be an efficient truck driver. This is why enrolling in a truck driver training school is very important for aspiring drivers. With a good program, you will not only learn how to drive a truck properly, but you will also learn how to perform the other responsibilities of truck drivers like how to do a pre-trip inspections. Your school will also teach you about and help you get additional endorsements if the driving position you want to apply to requires special skills like a hazardous materials endorsement.

Driver Solutions Training Program offers a complete solution to all your trucking career needs. To schedule a time to speak with a Driver Agent about our CDL training program, complete the our online application using the button below.  Don't forget to join us on Facebook and become our Twitter follower to stay updated on our training.

If you are unsatisfied with your current job that does not offer stability, then you should consider a career in truck driving. Truck driving offers the ability to generate a solid income and take advantage of good benefits. In addition to that, truck driving allows you to travel different places and meet new people. One thing is for sure, you will always encounter something new in this career.

To prepare you for your trucking career, it's recommended that you enroll in CDL training to get your commercial driver's license. When choosing a training program, you should look for a trucking school that prepares you for both the written CDL tests as well as the hands-on CDL skills test. This way, you can be confident that you not only have the necessary knowledge but also the necessary skills to be a professional truck driver. With CDL training from a reputable school, you will have classroom-based training and training in a driving range. 

Training for truck drivers may be expensive but with companies like Driver Solutions you will have the option of company paid CDL training.  This is a great way to get started without the upfront tuition costs. 

Complete our online application by clicking the graphic below.  This will allow you to schedule a time to speak with a Driver Agent about your options. 

If you are investigating the career of trucking, you are wise to do some research ahead of time.  It is not as easy as simply getting behind the wheel of a semi tractor trailer.  While you are conducting your research, you may run across the term DOT physical.  You will be required to pass the DOT physical before you get your CDL and begin a trucking career.  Here’s what to expect from your DOT physical while in truck driver training school.

CDL license holders are required to hold a valid DOT record certified by a doctor.  This is a physical exam that comes with proof in the form of a Medical Examiners Certificate.  Formally known as the Department of Transportation Medical Examination, the DOT ensures your ability to be physically sound enough to safely operate and drive a commercial vehicle. 

Sometimes you can get your DOT with certain trucking companies that offer CDL training if they have a doctor to work with.  The Drivers Solutions Training Program for example will conduct your DOT physical and drug screening in the first week of classes. 

Some of the Basic DOT requirements:

1. You must have 20/40 correctable vision in each eye. Glasses or contact lenses are permitted.
2. You cannot be a diabetic on needle-injected insulin; diabetes controlled through a diet or oral medication is permitted.
3. Your blood pressure must be under 160/100. Prescription medication to control blood pressure is permitted.
4. Your blood sugar level must be under 200.
5. Use of a Schedule 1 drug, amphetamine, narcotic or any other habit forming drug is not permitted.
6. If you have a current diagnosis of cardiac insufficiency, collapse, congestive cardiac failure or any other cardiovascular disease you will be required to provide the Medical Examiner with a stress test from within the last 12 months along with a release from your physician stating that you can drive a commercial motor vehicle without restrictions.

If you feel you meet these requirements and are ready to start your truck driver training - complete our online driver application now.