Month: October 2018

The first step toward becoming a professional truck driver is to start your CDL training. Driving a tractor-trailer is no simple task, there is a specific level of training and knowledge required in order to do the job correctly.

There are a couple of different types of commercial drivers license (CDL) out there and each one takes a different amount of time to complete. Explore the training options offered at United Truck Driving School and find out how long it will take to start your new career!

Your CDL Training Options

A CDL will open doors to new job opportunities in the trucking industry. United Truck Driving School offers Class A CDL, Class B CDL, and CDL-A + Passenger training programs. Whichever program you choose should be dependent on the type of trucking job you want.

The Class B CDL course is the shortest program of the three, it only takes 3-weeks to complete. Having a Class B CDL will allow you to operate a tow truck, dump truck, delivery truck and many more! Whereas, the Class A CDL course takes 4-weeks to complete and prepares you to work as a Commerical Truck Driver both over-the-road (OTR) and locally. And if you’re really not sure what type of driving job you want, the CDL-A + Passenger program is what you need. The CDL-A + Passenger course combines truck and bus driver training into one course that can be completed in just 4.5 weeks!

Our CDL training programs include both classroom instruction and on the road training. You’ll learn important topics such as state traffic laws, accident reporting, hours of service, trip planning, vehicle inspection, federal regulations, and E-Logs. Students also get road training with an experienced driving instructor who will help students navigate essential skills such as pre-trip inspection, docking, backup maneuvers, and road safety.

After Your CDL Training

Before taking the three-part skills test, you are tested on inspection and maneuvers addressed in the CDL Manual with a qualified individual. The skills test contains a Vehicle Inspection Test, Basic Controls Test, and Road Test. After completing the skills test, you will provide the documentation to the Department of Motor Vehicles. Each state will either give you the CDL immediately or mail it to you depending on where you live.

While there are plenty of entry-level jobs available, competition is still fierce, and employers are on the hunt for the best-qualified candidates. The United one-on-one, hands-on training approach, and commitment to student success has helped thousands of students in the area become successful, safe truck drivers. But that’s not all, United also offers job placement assistance! We will help you connect with top trucking companies in the nation.

Ready to get started on your CDL training? We’ll walk you through the steps of getting started in the right training program for you, contact us today!

As someone looking to start their CDL training, you may be wondering if you’ll be able to observe other drivers before getting behind the wheel. The short answer is yes! At United Truck Driving School you’ll be given plenty of opportunities to observe other truck drivers including both your classmates and instructors with years of experience behind the wheel!

Benefits of Observing Other Drivers

It may come as a surprise just how much you can benefit from watching other drivers. Watching another driver, especially an experienced driver, can help you get a better sense of timing. Instructors are able to point out why the more experienced driver makes certain decisions and will sometimes even ask them to make a common mistake so you and your classmates can observe.

In addition to watching an experienced driver handle their rig, you’ll also have an opportunity to interact with the driver and ask questions. At United, our instructors are experienced and will provide you with insider tips, share some of their road stories, and offer suggestions about how to prepare yourself and your loved ones for your new life as a professional truck driver.

Plenty of Practice Time

Rest assured, you will not be spending your entire time at United Truck Driving School listening to lectures and watching other drivers. As we all know, practice makes perfect. This statement couldn’t be truer when it comes to operating a tractor-trailer!

Being a truck driver comes along with a lot of responsibility. Not only do you need to make your delivery on time, but you also need to ensure the safety of yourself and other drivers on the road. That’s why you’ll spend a great deal of time behind the wheel during your CDL training! Our goal is to make sure you are comfortable behind the wheel before you take your CDL test.

Are you ready to hit the road and practice driving? Contact us today to learn more about our CDL training programs! We’re looking forward to helping you reach your career goals!