Truck driver training programs teach students how to obtain their commercial driver’s license, commonly known as (CDL). This is specialized training on how to operate and drive a commercial motor vehicle on public roads and highways. Prospective drivers may choose to train at private trucking schools, trucking company-sponsored CDL programs, or local colleges. However, it is up to the student to make the most of the training program they choose. It is estimated that 25% of students give up, drop out, or fail a training program.
You must sign up with the attitude that you want to be the best driver you can be. There is a lot of information that students need to learn in driver training programs. Students are taught in the classroom, on the driving range, and on the roads and highways. It is important to learn as much as you can so that you are well prepared once you start driving professionally. Once you start your career as a driver, you will have to deal with various situations. You must know how to safely maneuver your truck in various weather conditions, accidents, etc. Certain traits can help you determine if you have the right attitude to be a CDL driver.
Motivation: You should enter a truck driver training program with good self-motivation. You should attend classes only if it is your decision to become a truck driver. Don’t wait just because your spouse or friend is pressuring you to do so. Truck driving is a totally different type of career than other jobs and you have to decide for yourself if you want to live your life as a truck driver.
Fun fact: If you’re new to the trucking industry, you have a lot of questions to ask not only about learning to drive your chosen vehicle, but also about the trucking industry as a whole. Ask questions about anything you don’t understand. Students are often shy about asking questions in a group situation because they think theirs is a silly question. There is no such thing as a dumb question. If you don’t understand something, chances are others won’t either, so don’t hesitate to ask. However, even if you are the only one who needs clarification on an issue, you should still ask. It is imperative that you clearly understand all aspects of your training. Also, don’t forget that you must take and pass both a written test and a driving test to get your CDL.
Patience and perseverance: There are so many things to learn in truck driver training programs that students often get discouraged. Adopt the attitude that you are not going to give up. Don’t worry if you have trouble parking or backing up. Don’t worry if you’re having a hard time learning how to hitch and unhitch the trailer from the truck. Don’t worry if you get confused by the instructions in the log book. Learning these skills takes time and practice. Be patient with yourself and in time you will become competent. Working with a patient instructor and repetition of various tasks, in addition to your knowledge of the many things required of truck drivers, usually brings excellent results.
Take your training seriously and learn as much as possible. Strive to make the best use of your time both in the classroom and in real driving situations. The information you learn in your training program will serve you well throughout your trucking career. Your actions on the roads will affect not only your life but also the lives of other motorists.