Truck Driving Jobs With No Experience

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.  

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.

Apply 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. 

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.

Excited 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.

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

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

Let's Get to Know Nicole :

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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



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

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

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

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

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

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:

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.

If you’ve made the choice to become a truck driver, you’ll end up driving with a company trainer for a while. There are plenty of articles discussing what you can expect from the viewpoint of a trainee, but what about the trainer? I was a driver trainer for a large refrigerated carrier and would like to tell you what training is like from a trainer’s perspective. I hope this article helps shed some light on what trainers go through so that you can better understand why trainers do the things they do or say the things they say.

It’s Stressful
Chances are, you’ll be nervous about meeting your trainer. For the next 3 to 6 weeks (or longer), you’ll have to share a tiny little space with a total stranger nearly 24hrs per day and 7 days per week. Well, guess what? Trainers feel nervous about it, too!

Sure, trainers sign up for it and do it voluntarily, usually for some additional pay, but there is still a ton of stress involved when first starting out. On top of that, trainers are expected to ride around with a brand new CDL holder. Most trainees have absolutely no truck driving experience other than what their CDL school taught them. The only way trainers can control the situation is to use their voice. It’s a very helpless feeling seeing a curve coming up too quickly or noticing the trailer is about to take out a pole with zero control over the situation. To make matters worse, many trainees are either too nervous to take in everything they are told, or flat out don’t listen to advice. That only increases the anxiety levels.

Lack Of Sleep
A controversial issue within driver training is the fact that most companies operate training trucks as team dispatched trucks. Meaning, after the first week or so, the trainee drives while the trainer sleep and vice-versa. Do you know what it’s like to try and sleep while a brand new driver is cruisin’ along the expressway at 65mph? It’s terrifying! Any jerk of the wheel, curve, strange noise, or application of the brakes will jolt your trainer awake. This only adds to the stress for your trainer. It’s extremely difficult to get quality sleep in that type of environment because trainers usually aren’t ever in a deep sleep. They are one step below sleeping with one eye open!

Pressure Buildup
It’s fairly common for trainees to complain about their trainer “yelling and screaming for no reason.” I don’t condone trainers yelling and screaming unless it’s an immediate emergency. But there is a very good reason this happens. Trainers are in constant stress and fear. Their job is not only to teach you how to become a safe and efficient truck driver, but they are also responsible for keeping you safe, keeping themselves safe, and keeping the motoring public safe. Combine that with the lack of quality sleep and a possible personality clash and it’s a perfect setup for a trainer to temporarily lose his or her cool. That’s what we call a blowout. Imagine a balloon being blown up with more air every time a trainer feels stressed, but suppresses that stress. Eventually that balloon is going to pop. Whether your trainer has a blowout or not entirely depends upon your specific trainer and situations you both go through together. Chances are, he or she will not have a blowout. But if it happens, just move passed it. Don’t take it personal. Trainers build up a ton of stress and anxiety over the course of training and not all of them handle it perfectly all the time.

Inability To Communicate
The most frustrating thing for a trainer is the inability to communicate properly to a trainee. As a trainee, you’ll be forced to absorb a ton of information in a very short period of time. As a trainer, I had a very short period of time to teach things to my trainee. So it’s a double edged sword. While I didn’t expect my trainee to comprehend 100% of everything I said, after 3 or 4 times it would start to get frustrating having to repeat myself.

Taking It Personal
While I can’t speak for all trainers, I know that I took the success of my trainee very personal. I wanted nothing more than to see my trainee become a safe and happy truck driver. If my trainee were to get into an accident, quit, or get fired, I’d take personal responsibility for that. Even through the little arguments or personality conflicts that naturally comes with sharing such a tiny space, I never once wanted to see a student fail. The only thing I wanted was success and I took that very personally. Everything I did and everything I said was meant to further the success of my trainee. So remember, chances are, your trainer will be the same way. Even if you disagree on something, you and your trainer are interested in the same end result. Success.

Are you a driver trainer?  If so, share with us some of your thoughts on this post below!

More About the Author
Mike Rogers (also known as TruckerMike) is a former OTR truck driver, CDL Instructor, and driver trainer. During his trucking career, he traveled through all 48 continental states in all weather conditions maintaining a perfect service and safety record.
Read more blog posts from Mike here

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!

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.
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.


Reason #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.

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:


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.  

When considering CDL training, attending trucking school during the holidays may seem like a hassle.  But, what many aspiring drivers don’t know is that attending school during the winter holidays can actually be one of the most beneficial times of year for new drivers.

Take a minute to check out these top 5 reasons to start trucking school during the holidays:

1. There are fewer people at school during the holidays, which means more time for you behind the wheel and more personalized time with a CDL instructor.
2. Most winter weather does not get too bad until January. There is always a chance of inclement weather through November and December, but your odds of avoiding the worst weather are better before January 1^st.
3. When bad weather hits, you may experience rain, sleet, and even snow, but at trucking school you’ll be with an experienced trainer that can help walk you through how to overcome these events.
4. The carriers’ freight is usually at peak demand at the end of the year, so job opportunities are usually better after training.
5. The sooner you start your training, the sooner you can start working in your new career as a professional truck driver!

Even though there are a lot of benefits with coming to trucking school during this time of year, we understand that with the holiday season finally here, you may think that being away from loved ones during the holidays is too tough for you to handle.  But keep in mind, after you finish your 3 weeks of CDL training, you’ll get experience under your belt driving in bad weather and covering a lot of miles. If you start trucking school this holiday season, by next summer you’ll have a high level of confidence in yourself and your trucking abilities.

Get a head start on your New Year’s goals by starting truck driving school now!

Ready to apply? Complete our online driver application to speak with a Driver Agent about your trucking career options.

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. 

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.

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.

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 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.
 

Regardless of if you're just now starting a trucking career or have been a truck driver for years, managing your money while living a life on the road is no easy task...

So, how much many do you need each week?  What should you spend it on to get the most "bang for your buck?"

Driver Solutions asked some of our Facebook fans to help us out by telling us how much money they recommend and how they spend it. 

Let's check out what they had to say:

• I live on a hundred and that includes my scales - Timothy Seay
  
  
  
• At least two hundred for a comfort zone.  You have scales tolls and eats plus your personal things smokes hygene so remember its better to have to mutch than not enough. - Clyde Buffington
  
  
  
• 50-100 dollars, and always economize. - Ben Lassiter
  
  
  
• At least $100. Never be on the road without CASH. You might have to pay a scale ticket or shower and your stuck in no mans land for the weekend. The road is expensive...stock your fridge. - Stacy Albers
  
  
  
• True at least $100 or little more- some places are way high on things. I am gettin stuff ready for my truck so not to spend too much out there :) try not to that is.. - Elaine Wms
  
  
  
• If it's just food budget what you could do is, don't go home for an entire day eat out and keep track of what was spent, use that as a base for what you should expect multiply that by 1.35 for the cost of a truckstop markup. Now multiply that by the amount of expected days you will be away. Bring a big envelope for all your reciepts now add them all up and divide by the number of days you where gone to get a better picture. Before you leave pretend you can't stop at all and create a plan fill a cooler with presweetened drink mix, some water, canopener, snacks and food that are non perishable, two more meals grab some ramen noodles. And some things you can easily eat without heat. Eating utensils and unbreakable cups. If you use a hotel some provide a continental breakfast take advantage of this and stash some of the fresh fruit. Try and preserve your cash for when you really need it. I use mine as a last result. Being prepared is far more comfortable then being broke, especially when you don't have access to more cash quick. Set an alarm to drink water you won't eat nearly as much and stay hydrated. Be prepared. - Joseph Newhart
  
  
  
• Try and budget everything but always have extra for emergencies -Clyde Buffington
  
  
  
• Invest the cash and get a cooler and one of those bax burton ovens, you can cook or heat pretty much anything and that will save you tons in the long run. Even with that to be comfortable at least $100 a week. - Mary Zuber
  

Driver Solutions is dedicated to helping inexperienced truck drivers get the CDL training they need to find truck driving jobs.  Part of that training is understanding the basics of managing money on the road.  But many "tricks of the trade" are learned from experience. 

If you're a truck driver with some experience and you're reading this - what tips do you have to share for getting the most out of your money on the road?

Careers in trucking go beyond the driver’s seat.

Trucking jobs provide drivers with new responsibilities and can open the door to a lifetime of employment opportunities. Deciding to pursue a trucking career can be a life changing decision, and sometimes it can be fun and comforting to look at familiar stories for inspiration and advice.

Most families are familiar with Dr. Seuss, who wrote stories like The Cat in the Hat and How the Grinch Stole Christmas. Dr. Seuss has traditionally been most popular with younger children due to his catchy rhymes and the unique drawings in his stories, but if you look deeper into his book Oh, The Places You’ll Go!,  you’ll see that it’s easy for truck drivers to identify with the characters as well. The storyline of Oh, The Places You’ll Go! covers the journey through life and its many challenges, which new truck drivers can easily relate to.

Here are a few lines and sections from Oh, The Places You’ll Go! that apply to trucking:

"Oh! The places you'll go! You'll be on your way up! You'll be seeing great sights! You'll join the high fliers who soar to high heights."

Most entry level drivers begin in an over-the-road position. As an over-the-road driver, you will travel to different places every day, going anywhere and everywhere your truckload carrier needs you to.  This often means being out on the road for 2-3 weeks at a time before heading back home for a few days. During the first year of truck driving, you'll see countless great sights, learn a lot about the trucking industry, and refine your driving knowledge.

“I’m sorry to say so but, sadly, it’s true that Bang-ups and Hang-ups can happen to you.”

As a new truck driver, you will face many challenges and be forced to make some hard decisions. The first year of your trucking career can be quite intimidating if you do not have experience, and as with any career, you will have good and bad days. You will probably get stuck in traffic a lot, drive in bad weather, and face many other unexpected delays.

"Whether you like it or not, Alone will be something you'll be quite a lot. And when you're alone, theres a very good chance you'll meet things that scare you right out of your pants. There are some, down the road between hither and yon, that can scare you so much you won't want to go on."

The lifestyle of a truck driver can be a big adjustment. You must be comfortable being behind the wheel of a truck for extended periods of time and must be able to make the adjustment of being alone and away from family members. But being alone doesnt have to mean being lonely. To decrease the feelings of isolation, make sure to talk to family members and friends on the phone, take advantage of connecting with others online, and socialize with other truck drivers on your breaks.

"And will you succeed? Yes! You will, indeed! (98 nad 3/4 perfect guaranteed.)"

Truck driving is a great career choice to make, and success in the field is attainable no matter what the challenge. Even though there are ups and downs, there can be great rewards to those who stick with it. The trucking industry has great job stability, and in the first year of driving you could make up to $40,000. Plus with advancement and bonus opportunities available, you can make even more as you continue your career.

It's common to get frustrated during the first few months of starting a big adventure like truck driving, but keeping a positive attitude, having a good support system, and tapping into all of your learning resources will help you perservere.

"You can steer yourself in any direction you choose..."

Are you ready to make a career change and conquer the challenges of truck driving? Let Drivers Solutions help you get on the road to success. Just complete the online application to get started.

**Dr. Seuss image from: Seussville.com

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

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

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

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

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

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

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