Truck Driver Training Programs

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 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.  

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

• U.S. Dept of Transportation – Final Hours-of-Service Rule
• Final Ruling on Hand-Held Cell Phone Ban for Truckers
• The New CSA 2010 Program

Safety

• Sleepy? Keep Your Eyes Open and Mind Focused with These Helpful Tips
• CDL Training for Safe Driving
• How to Drive Safely on Unsafe Bridges

Truck Driver Lifestyle

• Wanted: 140,000 Truck Drivers for 2011
• Over 40 Tips for Truck Drivers with No Experience
• 3 Reasons Your First Year as a Truck Driver Will Make or Break You
• 2011 Truck Driver Appreciation Contest Winners
• Truck Driving School – CDL Training Students Sing Christmas Song
• Get a Free Truck Driver Survival Guide
• Find a Truck Driving Job: Is 2012 Going to Be Your Year?

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.

If 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.

Today, we have a blog post to share from the Director at C1 Truck Driver Training in Springfield, Missouri - Rich Campbell.  C1 Training is one of Driver Solutions' affiliate trucking schools and Rich is a great resource for information on becoming a truck driver.

Rich grew up in a trucking family, and started out driving at a very early age.  After 5 years on the road, he decided that he wanted to travel the world so he joined the U.S. Navy. 

Rich spent 20 years in the Navy, specializing in Naval Surface Operations, and Training.  Rich retired from the Navy, went to truck driving school, spent time back out on the road and eventually moved into a Director role at C1 Truck Driver Training.

With the 2011 coming to an end and 2012 quickly approaching, Driver Solutions asked Rich to share with us his recommended goals for inexperienced, first year drivers (these can apply to experienced drivers as well!).  Let's check out what Rich had to say...

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:

1.    Earn Your Safety Bonus Each Quarter
Every carrier out there offers a safety bonus to those drivers that make it through that period with no safety violations of any sort.  The bonus varies different at each carrier, but bottom line is that you will get more money in your pocket.  We stress the Smith System of defensive driving at C1, and if you always implement this approach to your driving on the road, you’ll do very well.

2.    Finish the Year with Zero Points on Your CSA Score 
Every commercial motor vehicle driver is graded in 6 different areas by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration in a program called Compliance, Safety, Accountability (CSA).  This is a record of your performance out on the road, and is used to determine the likelihood of a crash occurring.  Any violation you receive will put points on your CSA score, so a perfect score is zero.  Here at C1, we teach a class on CSA, and talk about the best ways to maintain that perfect score.

3.    Get Through the Year with a Clean DAC Report
DAC stands for Drive A Check, and is comparative to a personal credit report, but it grades your performance as a professional driver with respect to on time pick-ups, on time deliveries, hitting stationary objects in a parking lot, damaging equipment, and the real big one is abandoning a vehicle.  We stress the importance of paying attention to detail, which directly translates into a clean DAC report. 

Setting the goals I have mentioned above will all add up to ultimately achieving that large goal, “To become a good truck driver”, but by breaking it down to things that are specific, achievable, and measurable you can truly see that you are accomplishing those things.  Only you can decide which goals are important to you, but it is important to set goals. 

In order to arrive at a specific destination at a specific time, every ship at sea must set a course to sail, and must maintain course to arrive at said destination.  When pushed off course, you then determine what’s called “Set and Drift” which puts you back on course.  This applies to all of us as individuals.  Set your personal course, always check that you’re on course, and compute for “Set and Drift” when pushed off course.  This will always ensure that you arrive at your personal destination, and that’s the ultimate goal.

We would love to hear some of the goals you've set for 2012, so please share in the comments section below!

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!

For many of the students that went through the Driver Solutions CDL training program this year, this winter will be the first time they will  drive a tractor trailer through wintry weather conditions. And as many of you may already know, a truck driver’s first trip through a snow or ice storm can be an extremely intimidating experience. 

The very worst weather conditions haven’t started yet, but with December finally here, the bad weather will soon be on its way. For the lucky drivers that spend most of their time driving in southern states, winter weather will not cause many problems. But for the truckers that drive routes across the country through the snow laden states, they’ll have to start putting their winter driving techniques to use.

There are so many things to worry about while driving in winter weather, so Driver Solutions has put together a list of things to remember.

Here are 7 winter driving tips for truck drivers:

1. Clear off all windows, mirrors, and exterior lights completely before driving. If snow or ice builds up while you drive, make sure to pull over and take a few minutes to clean everything off again.
2. Keep tires and brakes in good condition. Tires should be properly inflated and brakes should be correctly working.
3. Maintain a sufficient following distance from all vehicles and continue a safe speed that gives you plenty of time to react.
4.  Plan your route. Make sure you know what types of roads you will be facing and that your vehicle is properly equipped to handle these roads.
5. Check cross-traffic prior to reaching and traveling through an intersection to help avoid collisions.
6. Do not drive if you feel fatigued. Your ability to properly react to your environment will weaken with fatigue, diminishing your ability to drive as safely as possible.
7. Don’t push your truck or yourself to do more than you can in unsafe conditions. If snow drifts are so bad you can’t see the road or ice is so thick you cannot stop properly, consider stopping the truck at a safe area until conditions get better.

Aside from driving techniques, make sure you have proper attire for the weather as well. Be prepared with the right shoes, socks, and winter-ware like jackets, gloves, and hats. In the case that you do make a winter driving mistake or an emergency does occur, make sure you have an emergency kit handy with special winter tools, like plenty of blankets, non-perishable food, an power source, and a first aid kit.

Out of all of these guidelines, the most important tip we can give any trucker when it comes to driving in the winter is that no load is worth your life or the lives of others. If you are on dangerous roadways, the safest thing for you to do is find a safe place to stop and wait it out.

Whether its rain, sleet, ice, heavy winds, or snow, make sure that you get great CDL training that will prepare you to drive in any condition. Winter weather can limit or reduce visibility, decrease traction, and make driving in general much harder than normal. Truck drivers that attend CDL training with Driver Solutions not only learn how to deal with inclement weather driving, but also other important safety skills, like how to drive safely on unsafe bridges.

To get started with a trucking driving school that focuses on teaching safe driving techniques for all seasons, complete the online application to set up a time to speak with a Driver Agent on your trucking career options.

Most items get to their destination across America by tractor-trailers, so when things need transported it creates a need for trucks, which creates a need for drivers. There are currently estimated to be over 3 million truck drivers employed in the trucking industry, but with over 1 million trucking companies in the U.S., plus a continually growing economy, there will always be a need for professional truck drivers. 

With so many truck drivers moving freight across the country, there are sure to be some strange loads that drivers run into. We recently were so curious about this that we asked our Facebook page fans, “What’s the most unique load you've ever had to haul?”

Here are some of the responses we received:

“Hauled a load of junk TVs, computers, desks, and copy machines for the Verizon complex…” – Michael V.

“Full load of Styrofoam. Floor to ceiling, front to back. Had to get a forklift to push the doors together so I could close them. Total weight was almost 5000 lbs.” – Don D.

“Sail boat fuel.” – Ricky H.

“Precast concrete doors for a loony toons at home bomb shelter.” – Joseph N.

“The big top tent for a circus.” – DenRay

“I think it would have to be the load my Dad had one of these horrible three tiered salmon pink sock tables. Each one was about 45lbs. and most of the stores that were set to get one didn’t want it. Lol” – Cristal S.

“Hot wax that cooled off on me! Lol (what a mess…) now Crude oil!” – Desmond M.

“High altitude chocolate…from Hershey’s…packed in nitrogen containers…” – Ray V.

As you can tell, no matter how big, small, unique, or strange an item may be, it probably gets transported across the country by a truck for businesses and consumers.

Driver Solutions is aware of the dependence and high need for qualified truck drivers, which is why we help hopeful truckers get great CDL training. We understand that paying thousands of dollars for CDL training in hopes of finding an entry-level trucking job with a good company can create a lot of uncertainty and stress. To help reduce these feelings, Driver Solutions specializes in placing students in a paid CDL training program that covers the cost of tuition AND matches drivers with a job at respectable trucking company BEFORE they start school.

If you’re ready to help meet the need for drivers and get your career started, just complete the online application to set up a time to speak with a Driver Agent about your options.

Who knows what unique loads you might transport!

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

For 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!

Image Source: Cartype.com

The U.S. Department of Transportation announced on November 23, 2011 a final ruling that makes hand-held cell phone usage banned for truckers and other commercial drivers. We believe this is a giant step for safety.

For years organizations have been studying how cell phone usage behind-the-wheel affects driver safety. Over two years ago several trucking companies already starting banning cell phone use for their drivers while behind-the-wheel of a moving truck, and many other companies have jumped on board since then.

To help further end driver distraction, in 2010 the U.S. Department of Transportation announced an immediate ban on texting for commercial drivers.  Many states since realized that in order to further help end distracted driving, texting should be banned not just for commercial drivers, but for all drivers, and many states now have penalties and fees for texting while driving.

The new official ruling from the U.S. Transportation Department will affect approximately 400 million commercial drivers. Drivers that violate the cell phone ban may face federal penalties such as a fine up to $2750 for each offense. Drivers need to take the ban seriously because multiple offenses may lead to disqualification from operating a commercial vehicle!

Texting while driving, or using any distractions like eating, talking on a hand-held cell phone, or trying to read a map can be deadly for not only the driver, but for other drivers on the road as well. In order to follow this new hand-held cell phone usage ban, consider using a hands-free device like a Bluetooth headset, or schedule your phone calls until you are not behind the wheel. Before you hit the road again, make sure you take just a few minutes to ask yourself, “Am I a safe driver?”

Luckily, Driver Solutions has been ahead of the safe driving curve for some time now. When students come to our CDL training program, our #1 goal is to teach the importance of safety, no matter what the circumstances. By focusing on proper CDL training, Driver Solutions shows its commitment to stopping distracted driving and producing safe, aware truck drivers.

If you’d like to get started with the Driver Solutions Program, just complete our online application.

 

Full article source: U.S. Department of Transportation/ Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration

Today, Driver Solutions announced its membership in the American Trucking Association (ATA).  And you might be thinking, “Big deal. You’ve joined a trade association.” To some degree, you are right; all that we did was join a trade association in the trucking industry.  Now, take a minute and look at the members of the ATA.  How many truck driving schools do you see?  There are very few because ATA membership is not cheap.

So why did Driver Solutions choose to join?  In a word, credibility.  You see, Driver Solutions is a company founded on doing things the right way and accepting criticism when someone questions that.  The most ethical business person I’ve met in my career is the co-founder of Driver Solutions, Chris Welch.  Mr. Welch worked for Cummins, Inc., the well-known diesel engine manufacturer.  His role was to identify diversified business opportunities related to the trucking industry.  So, in 1987, Cummins Professional Training Center was Mr. Welch’s brainchild to help the trucking industry attain more qualified, well-trained truck drivers.  When business conditions caused Cummins to divest of non-engine business interests in 1991, Chris believed so much in the truck driving school he founded that he found a partner and bought the school.  And thus, the foundation for Driver Solutions had been laid.

For almost 30 years, Mr. Welch has guided Driver Solutions through high growth and recessions.  And for those of us lucky enough to be along for the ride, his leadership has set the gold standard for how to treat customers. The membership into ATA is a natural progression for a company that cares about its customers.  In joining the ATA, Driver Solutions demonstrates a commitment to the trucking industry and the industry’s most vital natural resource, the truck driver.  ATA works hard to protect and improve the trucking industry.  Through the ATA’s efforts, trucking drivers have gained more respect and improved their standard of living.

If you are considering a career as a professional truck driver or checking out CDL training, choose a truck driver training program that’s affiliated with the ATA. A truck driver training program that’s a member of ATA means that your school has a higher commitment to the success of the trucking industry. And as a truck driver, you’ll be reaping the benefits of a strong and successful trucking industry.

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 jobs 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:
















































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.

It is not uncommon for someone to search out company paid CDL training in order to begin a first, second, or even third career path. Luckily, many companies are willing to train drivers at almost any age because the trucking industry is always looking for dedicated, qualified individuals.

At Driver Solutions, we see people come through our company paid CDL training program that are well into their 50s in age (and even older). Company paid CDL training can help lead to job security, as you're entering a stable and steady industry. Even though the Driver Solutions network of trucking companies do not have an upper age limit, in order to qualify for a class A CDL, you do have to meet some basic criteria.

Just a few of the requirements include:

• being at least 22 years of age
• having the ability to be away from home for at least 1 week at a time
• passing a DOT drug screen and physical.

If you’re looking to pursue something new or finally follow through on your dream, a trucking career might be right for you.

We recently set up a poll on our Facebook page to find out what age many of our fans got their CDL, and 29 of our fans responded. Though the majority of the Facebook fans started in their 20’s, many drivers did not start their trucking careers until well into their 30s, 40s, and 50s. If you are worried about going through company paid CDL training with Driver Solutions, just remember there is truly no age limit to become a truck driver.

Here are the results from the Facebook poll mentioned above:


 


















No matter what age you are, if you meet the minimum requirements and are interested in company paid CDL training, just complete our online driver application. Upon receiving your application, you can contact us to speak with a personal driver agent about your trucking career possibilities.

Before 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.

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 offer 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?

It'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:

• Where to Find Trucking Companies with CDL Training
• Find Companies Offering Trucking Jobs with No Experience Needed
• Looking for CDL Trucking Jobs with No Experience?

Driver Solutions CDL training focuses on teaching students how to become safe, knowledgeable drivers. Unfortunately, there are always surprises that pop up while on the road. We are all too familiar with abundant potholes and cracked pavement, but there is an even more serious issue: America’s 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.” These bridges require significant maintenance or even replacement. Some bridges may literally be crumbling beneath us!

The states with the most deficient bridges include Pennsylvania, Oklahoma, Iowa, Rhode Island, Missouri, Nebraska, and South Dakota. 22-25% percent of the bridges in these states are considered structurally deficient, with Pennsylvania and Oklahoma having over 25% deficient bridges. For truck drivers that travel across the country and through the Midwest, having unsafe highway bridges to drive on can be a scary thought.

Truck drivers carry the heaviest loads on the road, so having structurally safe roads to drive on should be a high priority. As more cars are on the road every year, and truck loads get heavier and heavier, it’s imperative to have safe roads. Whether in cars, buses, tractor trailers, on foot or by bicycle, streets, bridges, and highways need to be designed to provide safe access for all.

Some states, such as Georgia, are actually requesting to raise the truck weight limits on highways, which may cut traffic, lessen truck emissions, and help with the current driver shortage. But would more weight on our already worn roads and bridges cause even more damage? Unfortunately, most states do not have the money to cover the necessary repairs and updates that would be needed to support heavier trucks, let alone fix the bridges that need restored now.

Though driving on an unsafe road or bridge can be a scary thought in a huge truck, Driver Solutions CDL training program teaches drivers the basic skills of trucking with an emphasis on safety. Truck driver training students will learn about bridge laws and how to find if a bridge can hold your truck weight. Additionally, they will learn how to find out which bridges and tunnels the trucks can fit under. Exact numbers, weights, and measurements can be hard to remember, but Driver Solutions teaches you about the tools and resources that will make you a reliable, responsible driver.

Don’t take a chance on being unprepared. Take that first step to a successful career. Enroll in the Driver Solutions training program today by completing the secure online application. 

 
Statistics and image source: Transportation for America

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.
 

A Global Positioning System, better known as a GPS, is supposed to help drivers determine the best route to get to a desired destination. With detailed, street-level maps, voice prompted turn-by-turn directions, traffic delay alerts, and many other features, a GPS may seem like a great idea for a trucker driver.

Is a GPS the best tool to help truckers get where they need?

GPS technology has many benefits, such as helping dispatchers and trucking companies track loads. If a truck has a GPS device and the truck gets stolen or a trucker is in an accident, the truck can easily be tracked with the GPS signal. This can save vital time for police officers and first responders.

Should you just rely on your GPS? 

According to many experienced truck drivers and CDL trainers, you must quickly learn that you cannot just rely on your GPS. Using a GPS does not always go smoothly, and unfortunately, there are times that you may be forced to rely on other options to find your way around.  A GPS may lose its signal, or it may give you bad directions to a route that takes you under a low bridge or down other paths that are not meant for truck drivers. Plus, GPS devices may have older maps in their systems that do not show important road or construction changes. 

No driver wants to receive incorrect directions and take the chance of delivering a load late. The Driver Solutions CDL training program will teach you how to refine your map reading and trip planning skills so you will not have to rely solely on a GPS. With the skills that you learn in CDL training, you not only learn how to properly read all aspects of a map and trucker atlas, but you will be prepared for a well-paying, professional truck driving career.

Are you ready to get CDL training to become a safe, prepared driver? Complete our online application to arrange a time to speak with a Driver Agent about your trucking career options.

The most important skill that Driver Solutions network of CDL training schools want to teach drivers is that safe driving on the open road is absolutely critical to being successful. Driver Solutions is determined to provide proper, up-to-date CDL training for safe driving.

Take a minute to ask yourself, “Are you a safe driver?” This short, simple quiz will help you find out what you know about basic safe truck driving. Just answer “true” or “false” for each of the following statements, then check your answers below:

1. I can drive safely even when I am sleepy.
2. I am good at texting in my car and paying attention to the road, so it’s safe for me to text and drive a semi truck.
3. I don’t need to wear my seatbelt when I am going low speeds or going on a short trip. 
4. Driving at night and getting a full rest during the day does not affect my chances of being involved in a sleep-related crash. 
5. Rolling down the window or listening to really loud music will help keep me awake. 
6. Drinking a lot of caffeine will cure fatigue. 
7.  If I just did a pre-trip inspection at my last drop this morning, I don’t need to do another inspection before my next trip. 
8. I’ve never been in an accident before, so I probably won’t get in one in the future.

 

1. FALSE. The only safe driver is an alert driver. Even the safest drivers may become confused and use poor judgment when they are tired.
2. FALSE. Not only is it very unsafe to text and drive, it’s now illegal for truck drivers. Texting while driving a commercial vehicle like a semi truck can cause you to incur high fines and other penalties. Distracted driving causes thousands of accidents each year, so sending a quick message is not worth hurting yourself or others.
3. FALSE. In accordance with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations, if you are driving a commercial vehicle you MUST wear your seatbelt at all times while driving, no matter how slow you are going or how short a distance you go.
4. FALSE. It is very hard for our bodies to adjust to working at night and sleeping during the day. Just because you sleep during the day it doesn’t mean that you may not get drowsy while night driving.
5. FALSE. Opening a window for air or listening to really loud music will not prevent your body from nodding off if it truly needs the sleep. They may help postpone the effects of being tired, but will not prevent them.
6. FALSE. Caffeine may help give you energy, but the only thing that can cure fatigue is proper sleep.
7. FALSE. You must do a pre-trip inspection before absolutely every trip, even if you just did an inspection a few hours ago. Not only is it safe for you as a driver, but helps prevent accidents that may harm others.
8. FALSE. Having a great driving track record is commendable, but it doesn’t mean that accidents cannot happen in the future.

While many of these scenarios seem like common sense, or even humorous at times, safety is a serious issue. Many people honestly believe they can drive better even with dangerous distractions like being tired or texting.

With Driver Solutions CDL training, you will learn all of the information needed to start your career as a safe, knowledgeable truck driver. 

If you'd like to get started with the Driver Solutions Program, just complete our online application.

 

I am starting out as a truck driver and am very excited. Things have been rough lately and I have not been able to find a good job. I have been forced to be away from my family living in a homeless shelter Greenville Rescue Mission).  Thanks to PAM Transport I have been accepted to driver school and training. I am looking forward to a great career in truck driving. This prize could be a big help to me and my family with new expenses. Thank you for this opportunity and God Bless!

Your Name: Brian Mcduffie
Truck Driver: Brian McDuffie


Hi Brian,

Thank you for taking the time to enter our contest.  We're glad we were able to help you get a new career going through our truck driver training program.  We wish you the best at training and with PAM Transport!

- The Driver Solutions Team

I nominate myself to win the package, I had to borrow money from my family in order to go to truck driver training school in Little Rock, Arkansas. Needless to say, my family had to make 2 car payments for me. I was so cash strapped that I had to quit smoking while in the school. I've successfully kicked the habit.

The rest of my training with USA truck was pretty difficult for me financially, I had to blow my entire first bonus check just on food. I would have been better prepared if I would have been able to go to the grocery store and by some cheap canned goods. Oh well, now I know the deal, I just need a microwave now so I can eat cheaply enough while I pay my uncle back for the 2 car payments and the 800 dollar cash advance he gave me to survive untill my school started all the way until I got my first paycheck. Now I get to go home and take care of some other little things and buy the trucker road atlas. Im just so cash strapped that any little bit would help. I can make it now, even as broke as I am. I've gotten used to going without for some time now. Miss a meal, no big deal, I've missed many and can miss many more.

Anyways, I did the best I could to finish all training as fast as I could so that I can start earning. Money to pay back all my debts. Im proud of myself and everything I've accomplished. I've learned alot and its been fun.

Your Name: Larry Wardlow
Truck Driver: Larry Wardlow

Hi Larry,

Thanks for shairng your story.  We know it can be hard in today's economy to make it work with so many monthly payments.  We're glad we were able to help you get a new career started as part of the Driver Solutions program so you can begin paying back your debts.

We wish you the best! 

- The Driver Solutions Team

My father has been out of work for two years. Knowing full well that is true for many people out there these days it saddens me how difficult it really is. He was a contractor and when the bubble burst so did our sense of security. My family and I went from doing all right to each of us individually falling below the poverty line in a matter of months. We all have scraped and saved for one another and given whatever we had to whoever needed it most.

While I am proud of us for helping each other, I know it kills me father. He is of the mind a good father takes care of the family and it's his responsibility to support us. Obviously this has been impossible with no income.

A few weeks ago he got wind of a great opportunity and the chance to get a good paycheck in North Dakota. So at 57yrs old he is embarking on a new career as a truck driver. He has left us out here on the west coast and headed to drive all day for 6 weeks before his first break in the frozen Midwest.

We all couldn't be more excited for him but its a very bittersweet moment for my family. Knowing we won't be seeing him until likely Christmas and we won't have the first paycheck until after the first of the year.

This gift would do so much for all of us, and give my wonderful, sweet, strong father an opportunity to have some home while he's away from home.

Thank you, and best wishes to everyone!

Your Name: Kelsey Mabbott
Truck Driver: Dennis Mabbott

Hi Kelsey,

Thank you for nominating Dennis in our Truck Driver Appreciation Contest.  You bring up a great point and it's not uncommon for a someone to start a new career in truck driving later in life.  At Driver Solutions, we see people come through our truck driver training program that are well into their 50s in age.

We wish Dennis and your family the best!

- The Driver Solutions Team