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Why Truck Driving? USA Truck Driver Tells All

Thursday, February 9, 2012 by Derek McClain


Tired of living the same day over and over? 

You know what we mean - wake up, get ready for work, drive the same route each day, do the same job (such as operating a  forklift) over and over with seemingly no signs of progress or change.

Steven was in a similar spot before he decided to go after a truck driver job.  In fact, Steven went to another truck driving school prior to finding Driver Solutions.  He soon found out that a school with credit checks and loans was not the best option for him.  Driver Solutions, on the other hand, was able to find a company to sponsor his training (USA Truck) which meant no upfront tuition money and no credit checks. 

Not only was the ability to travel the country appealing to Steven, he also wanted to provide a better living for his family.  With a wife and 2 kids there were some upcoming expenses (such as dance school) he was going to have to take on and the first year potential salary that comes along with a truck driver job was encouraging.

We were able to catch up with Steven while he was waiting on this USA Truck Driver Trainer to pick him up.  Watch the video above for more from Steven! 

apply-trucking-jobConsidering A Truck Driving Job?

Are you ready to make a change?  If you like the idea of seeing the open road and getting paid to do it, go ahead and complete our secure online application to schedule a time to speak with a Driver Agent about your training and job options in the trucking industry. 


Truck Driver Pay - How Much Money Can New Truck Drivers Make?

Tuesday, February 7, 2012 by Derek McClain

How much money can I make as a truck driver? 


If you're considering a career in the transportation industry, of course you're going to wonder about truck driving pay

As an entry level truck driver, you can make between $35,000 to $40,000 in the first year.  For a job which requires no previous experience, this is a solid starting salary.  

The other thing to consider when discussing truck driver pay is the potential to advance and make more money.  While it may seem like just a truck driving job at the time, the career possibilities are greater than many other options in today's economy.  Once you gain some experience while maintaining a clear driving record you'll be able to receive bonus and advancement opportunities - at that point it's not uncommon to make up to $50,000 as a truck driver. 

When you consider the benefits of a company paid CDL training program such as the one Driver Solutions offers and the ability to earn a steady paycheck, truck driving jobs are a great option for many people.  

apply-trucking-jobApply with Driver Solutions
If you'd like to get more information on the company paid CDL training options that can help you get the training you need to find a truck driver job with no experience, just complete our secure online application.  


Tip from Trucking School Instructor: Stay Focused

Friday, February 3, 2012 by Derek McClain

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-trucking-jobApply 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.


What Are The Instructors Really Like Truck Driving School?

Wednesday, February 1, 2012 by Derek McClain
Thinking about truck driving school

Wondering what it's really like to go from an inexperienced driver to a confident CDL holder in 3-4 weeks? 


How about the instructors, what's it like to work with them?


Check out the video below as real truck driving school students talk about the learning experience that is CDL training.  In this video, students will discuss training in general as well as their experience with the truck driving school instructors.   


On the surface, driving a semi tractor trailer may seem pretty easy, but once you learn all of the information covered in the classroom, on the range and out on the road you'll gain a whole new resepect for what it takes to become a professional truck driver. 

Truck driving school is a fast paced, fun learning experience that will give you the skills needed to find a truck driver job and open doors to a career in the transportation industry.  Remember, the instructors are there for a reason and it's to help you be successful.

appl-truck-driving-schoolApply with Driver Solutions
If you are looking to find the best truck driving school in your area to learn the skills necessary to find a truck driving job, complete our secure online application.  This will allow you to schedule a time to speak with a Driver Agent about your options. 


Truck Driving Job in Iraq - What's It Really Like?

Monday, January 30, 2012 by Jerry Ott
Whether you're considering a career in truck driving, currently in truck driving school, or you're out on the road, you're probably wondering where your truck driving job will take you. Maybe the United States, Canada, Mexico…or Iraq.

In this blog post, we welcome back our guest video blogger Jerry Ott, who you'll remember is also known as "Bullfrog" to his friends and peers. A couple weeks ago, Jerry gave us some background on his career as a truck driver in Canada. He regularly posts videos for truck drivers on his YouTube channel called Big Rig Talk. Last time, Jerry told us how he got into the truck driving industry as an entry level driver, and more about his current job. In this video post, Jerry begins to tell us about his unique experience as a truck driver in Iraq, starting with how he got the opportunity, and what it was like to be in Iraq as a civilian truck driver.

Watch the video to find out what Jerry had to say about the experience:



Here's a video from Jerry's truck of his point of view in a convoy in Iraq:



Jerry was in Iraq from October 2007 to May 2009. He found out about the opportunity driving a truck for a company in Iraq through a friend and applied online. He was accepted to drive a truck, but had to delay his departure for a while due to medical issues since some facilities weren't available in Iraq. In October, he left his home city in Canada and flew to Houston, Texas for a week of training. All of his expenses, from the flights to the meals for training, were paid for by the company he was hired by. In Houston, Jerry and the other truck drivers hired were given basic training and policy instructions, including biochemical training. Next, they flew to the middle East. Jerry flew from Houston to London, then to Dubai. He spent a few more days in Dubai doing additional orientation and training before being sent to Baghdad International Airport.

Jerry says that the landing in Baghdad was very intense because of the tight airspace. Rather than the sort of landing people in the US are used to, this was a corkscrew landing which was unsettling. Jerry says the scariest moment in Iraq was actually the moment he stepped off the plane. He was surrounded by armed guards with weapons in a war zone. He even noted some of the guys left for home almost immediately.

Jerry did more training for his trucking job in Annaconda before being sent to his permanent home base in Tallil, in the southern part of Iraq. From there, he was part of the flatbed division. As a truck driver, he hauled everything from building materials to dry goods to construction equipment. Anything that might be needed at a base and could fit on a flatbed, he hauled on his truck.

As a truck driver in his area, Jerry said he did feel safe most of the time, though he felt most safe outside the base on a convoy than on the base. When they were on the base, they didn't wear any gear, while when he was driving he wore kevlar and was inside an armored vehicle. While driving his truck in a convoy, Jerry said he was only fired upon twice, and both times were by small arms fire which wasn't a big deal compared to what other convoys encountered.

Perhaps the most unsettling part of his truck driving job in Iraq wasn't his time behind the wheel, but in his housing on the base. The base would regularly be hit with incoming mortars at night. Jerry regularly had rounds going off within 1000 feet of him. The base would also send off outgoing rounds at night which happened to be very close to his housing area. In the video above, he shows an example of what this experience was like.

While he was in a war zone with regular heavy fire, Jerry does note that what we see in the United States and Canada isn't always very accurate. From his experience, he felt the media only reported the negative or twisted facts. On the contrary, while it is a very rough place to be, he saw a continual improvement in the conditions, especially with how fertile the land is becoming after regime change allowed waterways to open up.

As far as driving a truck in Iraq, Jerry says truck driving is truck driving no matter where you are. In Iraq, the trucks he drove included Mercedes, Volvo, Freightliner, and International. They were armored especially for these types of trucking jobs. However, there were some things about the truck driving experience in Iraq that were quite different. There was no speed limit to obey. There were also no weight laws enforced. Any rules that the truck drivers had were mostly self-imposed. However, being a safe driver translates to being a safe driver in Iraq.

Jerry is a great example of where an entry-level truck driving job can take you if you put in your time on the road and keep a safe, positive attitude as a truck driver. If you commit to a career in truck driving, there's no limit to the travel, benefits, and joy your job can give you.

Come back soon to learn more about Jerry's trucker lifestyle in Iraq, including where he lived and worked. If you have any questions, leave a comment and he'll answer in a future video.

apply-trucking-jobExcited about where a truck driving job can take you? Start your journey with Driver Solutions. We offer company-sponsored CDL training to get you on your way. Apply online right now to get started.

6 Reasons to Start a Truck Driving Job Video

Friday, January 27, 2012 by Derek McClain

1. Career Opportunities are Available
Let's face it, there still aren't a lot of jobs available in today's economy.  If you've seen your "field dry up"  and are searching for something new, a truck driving job may be a good choice.  As one student says in the video - it's either truck driving or something in the medical field and a trucking career is much easier to get started.  

2. You Get to See the Country
Some drivers go as far as to call it a "paid vacation," but one thing is for sure - if you're a truck driver you're going to see more of our country than most see in their lifetime.  There's no better view than from behind the wheel of a big rig! 

3. Finally, Some Freedom!
If you don't like sitting at a desk all day long with a boss on your shoulder, you'll be hard pressed to find a job that gives you more freedom than a truck driving job. 

4. Team with Your Significant Other
Several jobs that are currently available for drivers are team truck driving jobs.  It's not uncommon to see a husband and wife working together after their kids have grown up and left the house.  Spending time together traveling the country while enjoying the benefits that come along with a truck driving job

5. If You Just Love Driving
Some people just love to drive.  If you love driving and want to get paid to do it, you don't have to become a NASCAR driver!  Why not get paid per each mile?  It's the ultimate definition of getting paid to do what you love.

6. Truck Driving is In Your Blood
If you've always thought about becoming a truck driver since you were a small child, now may be the time to make a change.  As the student says in the video, if you think you have a "knack" for becoming a truck driver, why not give it a try? 

apply-trucking-jobApplying with Driver Solutions
If you've thought about becoming a truck driver, get started by completing our secure online application.  This will allow you to schedule a time with a Driver Agent who will being qualifying you for a trucking job opportunity and answer any questions you might have. 


Get Your CDL & Take a New Direction

Thursday, January 19, 2012 by Derek McClain
Before you know it, January will be behind us.  Soon, it will be time to ask yourself if you've moved any closer to achieving the goals you set for 2012. 

All too often we hear a story similar to the one below.  Someone working a dead end job with minimal hours trying to find out which direction to head in life.  It can be so easy to fall into the same rut and before you know it another year has passed and you're no closer to living the way you really want.  

At Driver Solutions we love helping people get out of those ruts by providing them with direction in life.  Let's take K. Cross for example.  K. Cross to came to us during the holidays in 2011 to lay the groundwork for a better life in 2012.  While going to trucking school to start a new career during the holidays is not an easy thing to do, his hard work is starting to pay off:

"Well i was at a dead end job working in a factory and getting no hours and little pay. I decided to take a new direction and try getting my CDL, thanks to Driver Solutions and there great team i was enrolled in C1 Trucking school. I went to class over the hollidays and passed my state test and now have what i wanted my CDL.. I can not say how much I appreciate all the help and support i recieved from Drivers Solutions and C1 Trucking.. Great people making it happen for everyone.... Thanks"
- K.Cross -

start-trucking-job

For Driver Solutions, this type of feedback makes everything we do worthwhile.  To hear time and time again that we've allowed someone to live a better life by giving them the tools (training) they neeed to start a new career is our goal. 


Considering a Trucking Career?
Finding a stable job in today’s economy isn’t easy.  In fact, you’d be hard pressed to find an industry as stable as truck driving.  If you’re ready to bring home a steady paycheck, we invite you to get started by completing our secure online application.  Submitting your application will let you schedule a time to speak with a Driver Agent to discuss your trucking career options.

2 Must Reads for New Truck Drivers

Wednesday, January 4, 2012 by Derek McClain
If you're looking to find a truck driving job with no experience, you need to fully prepare yourself for that first year behind the wheel of a big rig.  You see, getting the first year of experience is the key, but it can also be one of the biggest challenges you'll face.  Why?  Because the first year requires you to make some lifestyle changes that come along with being away from home for a few weeks at a time.

Check out these must-read blog posts from Driver Solutions to help you make the adjustment and get the most out of that first year:

3 Reasons Your First Year As A Truck Driver Will Make or Break You
Getting started in trucking can be a daunting task. Some people are lucky enough to know truck drivers or retired truckers. They can ask questions, seek guidance, and know what to expect as they take the journey into the longest road trip of their life... Trucking.
Unfortunately, not everyone is that lucky. Many people have nowhere to go for answers except the Internet. Three years ago, I was that person. I had all sorts of questions:

How do I get started?
How often will I get to come home?
How much money will I make?
What company should I start with?

As we’re ending 2011 and heading into 2012, we look back on the past year, think about the goods and others, and start planning the New Year.  The first year of trucking is definitely the toughest, so the best approach is to set your goals for a successful first year.  For goals to actually work for you, you have to be specific, make sure they are achievable, and they need to be measurable. 

To say that in the first year my goal is “To become a good truck driver” is not a specific goal.  You can’t measure it, and you have no real way of knowing if you’ve achieved it.  That said, you have to break down what it means to become a good truck driver and here are 3 measurable goals that will help you do just that..

Continue Reading Here...

apply-trucking-jobAre you trying to find a stable job? Have you considered a trucking career?  In today’s economy, you’d be hard pressed to find a more stable industry than truck driving.  Best of all, getting started is super easy.  Just complete our online application and you’ll be on your way to finding a solid new career.

Truck Driving Jobs & Training - 2011 in Review

Saturday, December 31, 2011 by Derek McClain
2011 was a big year for the trucking industry. With the truck driver shortage, the many FMCSA updates, and the increased attention to distracted driving, the trucking industry had a busy year.

Being a truck driver definitely comes with benefits, like good pay, job security, and the ability to travel, but potential drivers have to be ready for change. From the route your drive and the loads you carry, to the rules and laws that dictate what drivers can and cannot do, change is inevitable.

Driver Solutions covered many of the most important trucking stories in 2011 and tried to provide trucking industry and CDL training information to the many aspiring truck drivers out there. Though we wrote hundreds of posts over the past year, here are some of the highlights of 2011:

FMCSA Rulings

Safety

Truck Driver Lifestyle

With the additional industry attention on safety and a continuing driver shortage, 2012 seems like a great time to get a career in truck driving started.

truck-driving-applicationIf you ready to get more information on the Driver Solutions CDL training program, go ahead and complete our secure online application. This will give you an opportunity to schedule a time to speak with a Driver Agent about your options in the trucking industry for 2012.


Find a Truck Driving Job: Is 2012 Going to Be Your Year?

Tuesday, December 20, 2011 by Derek McClain
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 PAM Transport TruckSolutions 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?

apply-trucking-jobIf 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!



Truck Driver School - Free CDL Information for Holidays

Thursday, December 15, 2011 by Derek McClain
Santa-Truck-DriverAre you considering truck driver school?  It's officially the holiday season and we want to make sure you have all of the free CDL training information you need to be successful.

Driver Solutions has put together a quick list of some popular posts with advice and tips to help you with the process of becoming a truck driver. 

Check out these 3 resources below:


Finding a truck driver school doesn't have to be hard with the help of Driver Solutions.  Getting the education and training you need to successfully start a new career is the first step toward finding some job stability.

As we all know,finding a stable job in today’s economy isn’t easy.  In fact, you’d be hard pressed to find an industry as stable as truck driving.  If you’re ready to bring home a steady paycheck, we invite you to get started by completing our secure online application.  Submitting your application will let you schedule a time to speak with a Driver Agent to discuss your trucking career options.
trucking-job-apply-now

3 Reasons Your First Year as a Truck Driver Will Make or Break You

Wednesday, December 14, 2011 by Mike Rogers
Getting started in trucking can be a daunting task. Some people are lucky enough to know truck drivers or retired truckers. They can ask questions, seek guidance, and know what to expect as they take the journey into the longest road trip of their life... Trucking.

Unfortunately, not everyone is that lucky. Many people have nowhere to go for answers except the Internet. Three years ago, I was that person. I had all sorts of questions:
  • How do I get started?
  • How often will I get to come home?
  • How much money will I make?
  • What company should I start with?
The list of questions was long and overwhelming. I spent many hours typing new search phrases into Google searching for the answers.

Luckily, since you’re reading this blog, you’ve already found Driver Solutions. This is a fantastic place to find the answers to those tough questions and a fantastic place to begin your CDL training. But you’re still probably wondering, what comes next? What is it like being a solo driver? What is it like “out there” in the real world? What does it take to survive that all important first year on the road?

In the past 3 years, I’ve gone from truck driving student to truck driving trainer. And I’ve come up with 3 main reasons your first year as a truck driver will make or break you. So grab yourself a cup of coffee, get comfortable, and pay close attention. What you’re about to read could have a drastic impact on your success that first year as a truck driver and beyond.

Reason #1 - The Lifestyle

Make no mistake, truck driving is more than a job. Truck driving is a lifestyle. In fact, this is more of a lifestyle with a paycheck than it is a job with a paycheck. This is especially true for OTR and long-haul drivers who are away from home for extended periods of time and working close to 70 hours per week. In order to be successful and become a happy truck driver, you have to be prepared for both the tough side of trucking as well as the awesome rewards.

Understanding The Tough Side Of Trucking
There’s more to trucking than just driving. The public restrooms, the cramped spaces, the long nights, the solitude, dealing with customers who don’t seem to care about your comfort, and of course, the days and weeks spent away from your friends and family (including weekends and holidays). It’s tough out there. You’ll never hear a truck driver claim it’s a glamorous lifestyle and you need to be prepared for that. Truck driving is not a paid vacation and it’s very tough work. Surviving that first year will completely depend on your attitude. If you expect this to be easy, you’re in for a huge surprise. Transitioning into a trucking career will be one of the most drastic and difficult changes of your life.

Appreciating The Rewards
But there are so many great things about being a truck driver as well. With the right attitude, all the negatives I mentioned above could be positives. Trucking is something I thrive in. I love the solitude, I love the irregular schedule, I love that the only thing which remains constant in trucking is constant change. And of course, driving a huge 80,000lb truck over a 3,000ft mountain on a bright sunny day is my paradise. There’s no other feeling in the world than driving a huge, powerful truck. There’s nothing greater than putting a big smile on a kids face as you lay into the air horn. Cruisin’ along while jammin’ to your favorite tunes and getting paid for it almost makes it seem like you’re steeling from the company. Seeing more of this country in 1 month than most people see in 10 years is simply priceless. There is nothing that compares to trucking and nothing that can match the rewards trucking offers. After a while, it becomes addicting, just like a drug. You’ll never want to leave.
truck-driving-view

But it’s all about attitude. Understand that this is a major lifestyle change. Understand that it will be tough and test your patience at times. And understand that the longer you do it, the more enjoyable it becomes. Stay positive, stay safe, and no matter how tough things get, dedicate a minimum of 1 year to this lifestyle. You’ll be glad you did.



Reason #2 - The Learning Curve


Now that you understand trucking is a lifestyle and not a job, it’s time to master your skills driving that huge and powerful truck. Just like the lifestyle, driving a warehouse on wheels is not easy. It takes patience, practice, and persistence in order to be a safe driver.

Patience
Without patience, you’ll never survive that crucial first year as a truck driver. Having patience begins with yourself. Even after you’ve completed CDL training and even after you’ve completed company training, you will make mistakes. No question about it. As long as you don’t hit anything, you’re allowed to make those mistakes. The learning curve involved is something every trucker has gone through (even though some don’t like to admit that). So be patient with yourself and learn from any mistakes you make.

You also need to have patience with 4-wheelers (cars) driving around you. Now is not the time to have road rage. People driving cars will do some incredibly dumb things. But guess what? You are the professional and they aren’t. You are expected to drive like a professional and they aren’t. Instead of getting upset about the way some 4-wheelers drive around you, simply be patient, adjust your driving to theirs, and remain as safe as possible. If you don’t learn to have patience around the motoring public, you’ll either burn out from stress or end up in a career ending accident.

Finally, have patience with other truckers. Sometimes a new driver will hold people up as he or she attempts to back into a parking space or a dock. Be patient. Other times, you’ll be the one holding everyone up. So again, be patient with yourself. The more you try to rush things, the more likely something bad is going to happen. Remain patient with yourself, no matter how impatient others around you get.

Practice
As a truck driver, the learning never stops. You should try to learn something new each and every day and you should never pass up an opportunity to practice. For example, if you enter a truck stop which is empty, find a spot to back into instead of a spot to pull through. When you take the time to practice during the less stressful moments, you’ll excel during the stressful ones. Even the routine areas of trucking such as performing your daily pretrip inspection, trip planning, or taking tight turns; You should always practice and learn from each experience by trying new techniques. Once complacency kicks in and you think you know everything, your career is in jeopardy.

Persistence
When things get tough, and they will, keep pushing through. Your first year can be very trying. The learning curve is a long and slow curve. There will be times you want to simply give up. There will be times you’ll wonder why you’re living the trucking lifestyle. There will be times when you wonder if you made a big mistake. Be persistent. Push through. And never quit on a bad day. If you remain persistent and dedicate that first year to success without the option of failure, you can’t help but make it through the toughest year for any truck driver - year one.


grass is greener on other sideReason #3 - The Grass Is Greener Syndrome

There is a sickness in the trucking industry and it is extremely contagious. It’s called “The Grass Is Greener Syndrome.” It’s no secret that the trucking industry experiences a high turnover rate. But most of that turnover comes from drivers changing companies within the industry, not leaving the industry. Truck drivers are very good at convincing themselves things could be better at another company. Don’t fall for it, especially in that first year.

Fact of the matter is, in your first year, you won’t get hired into the premium truck driving positions. If you switch carriers in the first year, you’ll simply substitute one thing for another. One company might pay more per mile, but average less miles. Another company might have nicer trucks, but offer less home time. There is always a trade off.

Worst of all, it looks extremely poorly on you if you leave your first company before the 1 year mark. The premium trucking positions are reserved for those with experience, safety, and proven reliability. If you leave your first company in the first year, you don’t appear to be reliable, you haven’t proven that you’re safe yet, and you don’t have much experience. Any position that’s offered to you in that first year will be more of the same.

Chances are, if you leave your first company before the 1 year mark, everyone will diagnose you with “Grass Is Greener Syndrome.” The only thing that can cure that is time. The more changes you make, the more time it’ll take to heal. So do yourself a favor and wait at least one year before changing companies. That’s the real secret behind landing a premium trucking job and advancing your career. So consider that first year an investment.

Then again, after that first year, you’ll be making more money, driving more miles, have a good relationship with your dispatcher, understand how the company works, and will have learned a ton about the industry. You might just find yourself sticking around with your first company like I did. A lot of drivers don’t realize how good they have it until they’ve already left. It’s just another symptom of the disease.

That first year is tough. But if you follow the above advice and stick it out, you can’t help but become a successful, safe, happy, experienced and marketable truck driver.

Get the Best Free CDL Training Information from November

Wednesday, December 7, 2011 by Derek McClain
The Driver Solutions blog is focused on providing inexperienced drivers with the best free CDL training information available online.  Simply put, our goal is to help you make the a good decision about where to get CDL training, how to go about getting it, and how to find trucking jobs that offer the best potential long term potential.  

Each month, we share several new posts with our blog readers, Facebook fans, Twitter followers, etc.  Here is a look at some of our most popular posts from November:

Trying to Find a Truck Driving start-trucking-careerJob?  Do You Have the Experience?
Just like any job, getting the experience needed in the trucking industry can be difficult.  Does the experience come before to the job or do you have to get the job to get the experience?  It's at times a bit overwhelming to find out where to begin.  Take advantage of the information in this post to help you understand some ways to successfully get the experience you need to find a trucking job even if you've never even driven a truck before. 

How to Drive Safely on Unsafe Bridges
According to the organization Transportation for America, nearly 70,000, or 11.5%, of total U.S. highway bridges are classified as “structurally deficient.”  This means as a semi driver, you need to exercise special caution when approaching a bridge.  Weight, height, etc. all need to be considered.  Read this post for more information on how to drive safely around unsafe bridges.

GPS or Map: Which is Better for Truck Drivers?
While the advances in GPS technology are great, the simple fact is that a GPS does not always know the best, or the safest route.  In some cases, maps may be a better alternative for guiding you to your destination.  But one thing is certain, there is no absolute answer.  Learn more about some advantages and disadvantages of each in this article. 
apply for trucking job
Was this information helpful to you?  Are you considering truck driver training, but aren't sure where to start? 


Go ahead and complete our secure online driver application to schedule a time to speak with a representative about your training options.  Driver Solutions is here to help walk you through the process of finding a solid trucking job.  



3 Reasons Driver Solutions Can Be Called the Cadillac of Truck Driver Training

Tuesday, November 29, 2011 by Alonna Koch

An aspiring truck driver recently mentioned Driver Solutions on the TruckingTruth Forum  by calling us “the Cadillac of truck driver training.”

CadillacFor decades, the Cadillac has been synonymous with those that want the finer things in life. Cadillac has often been the first at making advancements in the auto industry, including developing the V8 engine, which set the standard for the American auto industry.

When you think of a Cadillac, words that probably come to mind may include “high quality,” “luxury,” “comfort,” “reliability,” “top of the line,” “innovative,” “superior” and “style.” So how is Driver Solutions like a Cadillac? Check out these 3 reasons why we think Driver Solutions can be compared to the Cadillac of truck driver training.

1. High Quality
Driver Solutions takes care of all of the hard work, including helping you afford truck driving school tuition and how to find a trucking job when you finish school. Driver Solutions will set you up to attend a top truck driver school for CDL training, which enables drivers to easily and quickly enter the trucking industry with significant advantages. The salary for truck drivers that start with one of the Driver Solutions network trucking companies are very competitive, so new drivers can earn up to $40,000 in their first year.

2. Reliable
Driver Solutions has been in business for over 23 years and has helped more than 20,000 drivers start a trucking career. Everyone that applies to our program is assigned to a Driver Agent that provides one-on-one support, walks you through the entire process, and gives you all of the details, upfront. The Driver Agents’ goal is to educate you on what trucking school will be like, so you will be properly prepared when you arrive.

3. Innovative
Students that attend trucking school with Driver Solutions get access to interactive pre-trip inspection videos, CDL practice tests, and other learning resources which will help them prepare for the CDL permit test before they even arrive at school. 


Are you ready to hop in the driver’s seat at the “Cadillac of truck driver training”?  Complete our simple
online application to get started!

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Image Source:
Cartype.com


5 Reasons To Apply For Trucking Jobs

Wednesday, November 23, 2011 by CDL Training Experts
Driver Solutions Training ProgramIn the light of the country's economic status, more and more people find jobs in trucking suitable to earn a steady income with added benefits not found with other jobs. If you're stuck behind a desk the whole day and want a change of scenery, why not enroll with Driver Solutions?

Here are 5 reasons why you should:


1. With over 11, 200 positions added last February, employment opportunities continue to grow in the trucking industry. After your training, you can be sure that you'll have work and get hired.

2. In your first year, you can earn from $37,000 to $40,000.

3. If you want to be your own boss, here's where you can do just that. Your time is yours and you can even plan your route to arrive at your destination on time.

4. You get to travel to different places, go where you would never have thought of going and have opportunities to find new friends.

5. Companies also offer a comprehensive benefit package. This often includes paid vacation leaves, a retirement plan and medical and dental insurance.

Fill out our online driver application to find truck driving jobs today and sign up for our free updates (see upper right of this blog).
career in truck driving

3 Time Management Tips for Truck Drivers

Tuesday, November 22, 2011 by CDL Training Experts
When you are considering truck driver training school, it is easy to get excited about the freedom in your future career, the flexibility, and possibly a benefits package that you desperately need. However, while many new in student truck driving jobs realize that it is about the miles you log, not many consider that time management is a critical skill in this field. The more miles you log, the more you will make, but every mile costs time as well. 
Find Truck Driving Jobs
Here is a two part series on how to learn effective time management on the road, so that you can manage your miles effectively:
  1. Accept that you will be slow at first.  Do not expect to make a ton in the beginning, because your body and mind need to condition to the experiences on your daily job.  Give yourself that time to adjust or you will burn out quickly. 
  2. Learn the parking accommodations on the routes you will be taking.  Parking in the evenings can be very frustrating to those signing on to entry level trucking jobs.  Finding parking for the night after 6:00 P.M. can be difficult in some regions, know your areas well and how soon you need to park. 
  3. Research your traffic.  Know your routes before you get on them, and you can avoid construction, delays, or rush hours. This may involve getting up earlier or adjusting your schedule, but this is an important time management tip that will save you grief down the road.

Are you ready to start truck driving jobs? Complete our online driver application now.

Driver Solutions

What's it Like to be a New Truck Driver?

Sunday, November 20, 2011 by Derek McClain
If you’re looking for trucking jobs with no experience, you may be wondering what it is actually like to drive a truck. Many aspiring drivers have considered a trucking career, but are concerned because they don’t have any experience. You have to go through proper CDL trucking training to learn the ins and outs before you are able to take the wheel of a big rig. Luckily, Driver Solutions can help you prepare for life on the road.

It is now well known that earning a CDL and finding trucking start-trucking-careerjobs requires special skills and knowledge. By going through a company sponsored CDL training program like Driver Solutions, companies know they are getting a driver that has been trained properly and students get assistance in finding trucking jobs with no experience. It’s not uncommon for us to hear from inexperienced drivers that they are intimidated or anxious about stepping into the driver’s seats of a large semi.

We recently asked the Driver Solutions Facebook fans that have driving experience, “What did it feel like the very FIRST time you drove a semi-truck?”

Here is a quick look at some of the responses we received via our Facebook page:

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As you can tell, feeling scared and overwhelmed are normal feelings for all drivers. Driver Solutions CDL training program will help you refine your driving skills, master the knowledge you need to succeed, overcome the scared feelings, and become a confident truck driver.

If you want more information, or are ready to find trucking jobs with no experience, just complete our online driver application. This will allow you to schedule a time to speak with a Driver Agent about your trucking career options.


2011 - Driver Solutions Reviews on Company Paid CDL Training

Friday, November 18, 2011 by Derek McClain
truck-driving-reviewsBefore you sign up for CDL training, you’ll probably want to read some Driver Solutions reviews. Applying for truck driving school can lead to a big lifestyle change, so it’s important to understand exactly what to expect.

Driver Solutions is dedicated to helping inexperienced truck drivers get the CDL training they need to find truck driving jobs. We currently work with a network of reliable, reputable trucking companies that are looking for high quality truck drivers. Our company paid CDL training program not only trains and prepares aspiring truck drivers to properly driver a tractor-trailer, but also helps students find a great trucking job to begin a new career.

Unfortunately, the Driver Solutions training program is not for everyone. Company paid CDL training requires that students are willing to commit to training for a few weeks and are looking for a career and not just a job.

One of the best ways to learn about a company like Driver Solutions is from the first hand experience of truck drivers that have gone through our program. Here are some of the most recent Driver Solutions reviews that Facebook fans have left on our Facebook recommendations page:

•    “Great school.” – Debra S.
•    “Driver Solutions is a good career opportunity in Asheboro N.C.” - Mark G.
•    “They helped me out so much with getting into school and getting a job” – Vernon H.
•    “This is a great place if you want to get your CDL training…” – Bret K.
•    “If anybody is looking for a job in trucking, contact Driver Solutions. They will help get you started.” – Stacy A.
•    “If you are interested in becoming a truck driver, this is a good place to start putting that idea in motion” – Gregory M.
•    “Driver Solutions is certified a+” – Darell S.
•    “Best school for truck driver training.” – Troy S.
•    “This is a great place 2 go if u want 2 learn 2 drive big rig” – John R.

Want to read more reviews? Tale a few minutes to check these out:
•    A recent in-depth Driver Solutions review from a student that went through truck driver training just a few months ago.
•    5 unique truck driver training graduation stories
•    General Driver Solutions reviews taken from our Facebook page

Still have more questions?

Complete our online application to schedule a time to speak with a Driver Agent who can answer your questions.


Trying to Find a Truck Driving Job? Do You Have the Experience?

Wednesday, November 16, 2011 by Derek McClain
Finding a truck driving job isn't easy if you lack the experience necessary for trucking companies to consider you a safe driver. 

So, now we're back to the age old question - if you don't have any experience, how do you meet the qualifications to find the job?

Luckily, there are trucking companies that train inexperienced drivers...and Driver Solutions has partnered with two of these companies that offer some of the best entry level trucking jobs available in today's market.

PAM Transport and USA Truck both find-trucking-joboffer over the road trucking job opportunities for students that complete the Driver Solutions CDL training program.  This basically means that these companies are willing to cover the upfront tuition costs for you to get the training and basic experience needed to prove to them that you are a qualified CDL driver.  
Once you've completed the training, you'll be qualified for a trucking job opportunity with one of these companies.  For many students we talk with each and every day, this is the best option available for them to get the experience needed to enter the trucking industry. 

So how do you get started?

apply-now-trucking-jobIt's super easy.  Just complete our secure online application.  This does not commit you to anything and will allow you to schedule a time to speak with a Driver Agent who will answer any questions you have about entering the trucking industry. 

For more information, check out these related links:

Sacrifice One for the Team

Sunday, November 13, 2011 by Truck Driver Appreciation
I have known Terry for 15 years now. Terry has always been one of the hardest workers I have known until an injury made it impossible for him to continue working in construction, which is the only job he had known. I watched Terry search for months trying to find another job to replace the career he has always known without any success. Terry went out of his comfort zone when applying to the truck driving school. He knew that my mother needed him to take this step and he did it to provide for my mother. My mom and Terry's life has been through a lot over the past year and it is finally looking up. They don't have a lot of money to stock his truck and this prize would really make their lives easier and more comfortable. Thank you......

YourName: Michael Pierce
TruckDriver: Terry L. Zuber