There are numerous factors that play into whether or not getting a CDL is worth it. Getting a CDL can be a time-consuming process, but the benefits can be immense. The only way to start the process of starting a long, rewarding career in the trucking industry is by obtaining a CDL. The best way to determine if getting a CDL is worth it is by learning more about how a CDL works. Continue reading to uncover more insights about how obtaining a CDL works.
How Does a CDL Work?
A CDL is obtained after attending a trucking school and passing successfully. There are multiple types of CDLs that can be obtained.
Additionally, there are numerous requirements for passing truck driving school and obtaining a CDL. For more insights about how a CDL works, keep reading.
What is a CDL?
A CDL is a commercial driver’s license. There are three different classes of CDLs: Class A, Class B and Class C. The loads drivers are allowed to haul are dependent on what CDL class they possess.
How Do I Get a CDL?
The process of obtaining a CDL entails attending truck driving school for a time period ranging anywhere from three weeks to seven weeks. The cost for attending truck driving school ranges from $1,000 to $8,000.
The actual price will depend on factors like the type of CDL being obtained and the location of the school. In some cases, companies will reimburse their drivers for some of the costs of truck driving school.
What are the 3 Tests for CDL Permit?
The three different sections of the CDL test are vehicle inspection, basic control and the road test. The passage of each section is required for obtaining a Class A, B or C level CDL. After obtaining a CDL the door opens for truck drivers to take on numerous job opportunities.
Class A CDL
Class A CDL licenses are required for driving trucks containing gross vehicle weight ratings (GCWR) of greater than 26,000 pounds with a towing capacity higher than 10,000 pounds.
The career path for truck drivers who have a Class A CDL include the following:
- Cross-country movers
- Semi-truck driver
- Flatbed truck driver
Class B CDL
Vehicles that require a driver in possession of a Class B CDL include public transit buses, tow trucks and garbage trucks. These vehicles maintain a GWCR of greater than 26,000 lbs., along with a towing capacity greater than 10,000.
- Tow Truck Driver
- Garbage Truck Driver
Class C CDL
People that are in possession of Class C CDLs are allowed to transport both hazardous materials and vehicles that are capable of maintaining up to 16 passengers.
- Airport shuttle bus driver
- Hazardous Material Hauler
Do Truckers Get Paid Well?
The average salary for full-time commercial truck drivers is $70,000. Even though that’s the case, there are numerous variables that have an impact on a truck driver’s salary. Those variables include the CDL type the driver has along with the location. There are also numerous ways for truck drivers to be paid.
Is Truck Driving Stressful?
Due to factors like traffic, weather and maintenance truck driving can be a stressful job. Even though that’s the case, there are still numerous rewarding aspects of working as a trucker like being able to travel regularly and not having to sit at a desk.
6 Factors to Consider When Getting a CDL
There are a number of factors that should be taken into consideration upon obtaining a CDL. They include:
Time
Getting a CDL is a time-consuming commitment. Classes typically take at least three weeks but as many as seven weeks.
Hours
Another factor that should be taken into consideration before obtaining a CDL is how many hours truckers spend driving.
Background Checks
Before completing the process of receiving a CDL, truckers must successfully complete a background check. The background checks that truckers must undergo before obtaining a CDL requires a dive into the truck driver’s criminal record.
Their employment history, medical records, experience with drugs, and alcohol history are looked into extensively as well. While a truck driver’s background doesn’t need to be spotless, a checkered past can present an insurmountable barrier to obtaining a CDL.
Cost
Given how high the price for the truck driving classes needed to obtain a CDL can be, cost should certainly be taken into consideration before pursuing it. The price for CDL training ranges from $1,000 to $8,000. The average price is about $3,700.
Sponsorships
There are some companies who are willing to pay for their part or the entirety of the cost of trucking school for their drivers. Trucking companies that fund CDL training for students expect them to work for their respective companies afterward.
Obtaining a CDL is an Invaluable Experience
The process of earning a CDL may seem daunting, but doing so lays the foundation for a valuable career as a truck driver. Trucking jobs offer both flexibilities, along with a respectable salary. After obtaining a CDL, next on the agenda is finding a job.
One of the most helpful resources for finding a job following the completion of CDL training is TruckDrivingJobs.com. After obtaining a Class A CDL, the trucking job of your dreams will be right here waiting for you!
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