Trucking Companies with CDL Training

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.  

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.

Driver Solutions graduate, Nicole Reeves, is quickly approaching the 1 year anniversary of her first truck driving job.  She started truck driving school in late January of 2011, was able to graduate in mid February and by March of 2011 she was an official over-the-road (OTR) driver with PAM Transport.  Overall, she's really enjoyed her time with the company and loves the freedom that comes with working a trucking job.   

For Nicole, becoming a truck driver was fullfilling a dream she's had ever since she was 16 years.  At the time, she was riding a bus to and from work.  During that trip, she'd gaze out the window at the trucks passing by wishing she could become a truck driver.  Since then she's had many other jobs such as: dog groomer, construction worker, cashier, working at a car wash and even at a carnival hauling rides. 

Now Nicole has a stable truck driver job, allowing her to provide for her family.  Her daughters are proud of their mom and show off the post cards she sends from her travels to their classmates at school.  She's visited all but 5 of the lower 48 states and some of her favorites include: Washington, Arizona and Colorado. 

In addition to getting to travel the country, Nicole has more financial freedom than she previously had with her other jobs.  While she's had her ups and downs over her first year, she recognizes that it takes hard work and commitment to be successful.  She's maintaining a positive attitude while staying on track and as a result she's getting good miles and making good money with PAM Transport.  She's also been able to enjoy some of the nice benefits that come along with a truck drivers jobs at PAM Transport such as insurance plans and 401K options.  

Overall, Nicole is loving her job and having fun...and that's how you know you've made a good career choice!

Side Note:
Nicole has also been very active on the Driver Solutions Facebook page in answering questions new students have about CDL training and truck driver jobs.  We'd like to thank her for support and for taking the time to stop by for this follow up interview.  Keep on truckin!!

Apply with Driver Solutions
Are you interested in becoming a truck driver?  Simply complete our secure online application to schedule a time to speak with a Driver Agent about your trucking job options.  Get started now by clicking the Apply Now button. 

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’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.

For the past few weeks, Driver Solutions has been following news on the recent passing of the hand-held cell phone ban for commercial vehicle drivers. Just like with any legislation, it was easy to anticipate that it would inspire mixed opinions in the trucking industry.

The official ruling, which goes into effect on January 3, 2012, was passed because it’s believed to help reduce the number of distracted-driver related accidents that involve truck drivers. For both commercial drivers, the law is hoped to reduced distractions will equate to reduced both commercial and noncommercial driver injuries and deaths. For trucking and bus companies, fewer accidents could also potentially help them save thousands of dollars in damage fees and insurance costs. Supporters include many individual drivers, trucking companies, and insurance companies.

For those that oppose the ruling, or at least parts of the ruling, three main disagreements seem common.

First, the American Trucking Association and many other trucking companies generally oppose the employer liability provision in the ruling. Under this provision, employers can be fined up to $11,000 if they do not require their drivers to use hands-free devices. The American Trucking Association supported their disagreement to the ruling by saying that drivers often use their own cell phones that aren’t provided by the carrier, plus “drivers are not always under direct supervision, and it would be extremely difficult and, in fact, unrealistic for a carrier to enforce such a requirement.” Trucking companies feel like if they are held accountable for their driver’s actions like this, it can potentially harm the company financially.

A second criticism that trucking companies have with the ruling is that cell-phone use is no more distracting than other types of communications, such as a CB radio which was not banned. Since drivers will still have access to the CB radio and other regularly used electronic equipment, trucking companies are worried that the new ruling will not decrease distracted driving accidents at all.

A third major worry by trucking companies is that this new ruling does not address  removing additional distractions from noncommercial drivers which actually make up the majority of cars on the road.

Dan Smith, the safety and security director for USA Truck, a company that Driver Solutions partners with for company sponsored CDL training, agrees that the cell-phone ban will benefit the industry overall but it needs to go even further. Smith brought up a good point that the new ruling is “only hitting a small population of drivers that are already the most heavily trained and heavily regulated drivers on the road.”

Despite the fact that trucking industry support for the new ruling is split, the most important thing for truck drivers and trucking companies to do is to continue to focus on safety. As the ruling goes into effect in just a few weeks, the next question to be answered is how truck company managers and police officers will be able to enforce the new law. Driver Solutions will continue to keep you posted on this ruling and how these changes impact trucking industry.

Source: Cellphone ban for truckers inspires mixed opinions

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.

The holidays are just around the corner and Driver Solutions wants to make them even merrier with a trucker style Christmas.

For some truckers, home is across the country with family members, but for many others, home is in the driver’s seat. During this time of year companies heavily rely on truck drivers to help keep the toys, clothes, great foods and many other holiday gifts moving across the country. While they may be out on the road, in many ways truck drivers are like a modern day Santa Claus delivering the things we want and need during the holidays.

Driver Solutions wants to help ignite the holiday spirit this year by having fun and getting to know our Facebook fans, blog readers, and aspiring truck drivers better. To start off the season, we need your help to create a trucker style “12 Days of Christmas.”

We’ll start the verse every day, then turn to you to help us finish each verse until the song is complete. Have fun, be creative, and reflect on your truck driving and CDL training experience. After everyone has time to submit their ideas, we need you to vote on which verse you like the most (by liking it on Facebook), and we’ll choose the submission with the most votes to complete our song.

Once, we’ve completed the “12 Days of Christmas” we’ll take your verses and make a video of the complete song.  So, be creative and your verse just might be featured in our new holiday video for 2011!

It’s all pretty simple- just share your ideas, vote for your favorites, then enjoy!

Are you ready to do Christmas this year, trucker style? If you’ve been thinking of starting a career in truck driving, contact us today and apply for company paid CDL training.

 

 

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.
 

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.