Lets discuss the issue of driver pay. Just like statistical information can be shaped to highlight something in a positive light; so can driver pay? For example if one carrier offered to pay you $0.32 per mile and gave you 2200 miles per week, you actually make less than taking a job with a carrier that only pas $0.26 per mile and gives you 2900 miles per week. When it comes to driver pay look at what your NET checks will be, not your pay per mile. Ask any veteran truck driver and they will tell you JD Truck Training Centre is all about the miles.
Private trucking schools will take their time and won't pressure you. Remember, they want you to enjoy your learning experience so you will recommend their school to others. Trucking companies are hit and miss... some of them may push you and pressure you to keep their agenda alive... it's YOUR privilege to be working there so you BETTER perform. Now not all of them will treat you this way. A lot it will depend on the individual instructors.
I remember when the Truck driving school was teaching me how to meet all the CDL requirements. They taught me how to back up, shift and do lane changes and everything. But the real deal of getting loaded, to driving through the mountains is another thing.
Many schools will also offer financial aid. The money you are required to put up front is sometimes a big limiting factor on what type of school you can attend. Offering financial aid can open up your opportunities. Find out how long it will be before you are required to begin making payments after graduation. Most schools will allow you 3-6 months before you start making payments.
The instructors will no doubt teach you about some of their experiences during the class. Until you get out on the road you won't really know the reality of what they are talking about. Two weeks in a school with several other Hr licence trainees will just barely give you enough experience to become pretty familiar with HR Truck Licence driving. You'll be able to pass the driving exam and feel pretty confident and be proud of yourselves. The company that recruits you will send you out with a trainer for several weeks for you to get a feel for how to excel and drive safely while learning the ropes. It's nice to learn from someone who has some experience.
Now second and lastly I like to talk about your experience. Some of you may have already been in a truck and know what it is like. Others have not a clue what to expect and are eager to know. So breaking the ice of the unknown will greatly increases your chances of survival of going through the school of hard knocks.
You may be witness to historical events and not even know it. Additionally, you will have some time to spare in the cities you go, so don't worry about learning only the docks, parking lots and warehouses. If you are a sociable person and you don't like routine, this job is made for you. You will never eat at the same hour. Sometimes you will not even get to sleep. But that shouldn't be a problem since you can taste new out-of-the-ordinary food every couple of days and sleep in the comfort of different hotels.