Got my Class A permit in California. Need help!

[nicfromwashington]

I recently (Last month) got my Class A permit in Vallejo, CA (SF Area)

My current situation is:
-5+ years experience with Commercial class C trucks.
-Several weeks experience on an Automatic Tractor/Trailer Combination.
-Full access to a Class A instructor (My boss)
-Already experienced with only using clutch at full stop.

My current problem is:
-I really need to take my driving test in a manual tranny tractor. I also need time before the test to practice with it.
-My boss only has access to a beat up automatic tranny tractor, and seldom has access to a trailer.
-I still have yet to grasp 'double clutching'

I'm basically trying to find out the best way to aqcuire access to a combination of vehicle which will pass inspection, and an owner/operator or business which will maybe trade experience behind the wheel for labor/etc.

Any tips would be greatly appreciated. I have $0 for trucking school and have no credit or co-signers. I also would really enjoy not signing any contracts with other companies (Swift, etc).

Right now, I'm calling/emailing some trucking companies and trucking schools for some tips/advice...with no luck

Thanks

[Uturn2001]

I do not know if it is true, but I have heard that California law prohibits employment contracts in exchange for training. Might be something to check into.

[Cluggy619]

I recently (Last month) got my Class A permit in Vallejo, CA (SF Area)

My current situation is:
-5+ years experience with Commercial class C trucks.
-Several weeks experience on an Automatic Tractor/Trailer Combination.
-Full access to a Class A instructor (My boss)
-Already experienced with only using clutch at full stop.

My current problem is:
-I really need to take my driving test in a manual tranny tractor. I also need time before the test to practice with it.
-My boss only has access to a beat up automatic tranny tractor, and seldom has access to a trailer.
-I still have yet to grasp 'double clutching'

I'm basically trying to find out the best way to aqcuire access to a combination of vehicle which will pass inspection, and an owner/operator or business which will maybe trade experience behind the wheel for labor/etc.

Any tips would be greatly appreciated. I have $0 for trucking school and have no credit or co-signers. I also would really enjoy not signing any contracts with other companies (Swift, etc).

Right now, I'm calling/emailing some trucking companies and trucking schools for some tips/advice...with no luck

Thanks

If you can use the auto for the test, use it. Your license is not going to say what you tested in. You can always get the experience with a manual later.

Anytime you can complete your class A testing with help from your boss truck/trailor for free is always a plus. Because you would have just recently receive your class A means you are going out with a trainer, anyways. But it should get you out of those pesky contracts some companies offer to train you. :wink:

[rcpilot]

Actually I beleive here in Cali if you test in an auto your license will be restricted to auto's only... call the DMV to verify first.

[mikey4069]

Actually I beleive here in Cali if you test in an auto your license will be restricted to auto's only... call the DMV to verify first.

I think your right about that . :shock:

[Cluggy619]

Actually I beleive here in Cali if you test in an auto your license will be restricted to auto's only... call the DMV to verify first.

Your kidding.....no such thing here in Texas....who knew? :?

[mikey4069]

Hey we are talking about california home to the fruits and nuts .

[EasyRolln]

I've seen a couple of companies that have both straight trucks and tractor/trailers. Generally, they'll hire you to drive a straight truck for them and offer to train you how to drive a truck (class A) while on the job.

Your other option is to try to hook up with an LTL company for a dock to driver program. In this situation, you have to work the dock for four months.

Other than that, hang out at the DMV and see if you can talk to some of the owner operators that are coming through. If that fails, see if your boss can rent a trailer for you to get some practice with one hooked up to the truck and just take your road test with the auto. It doesn't sound like much of a choice, sorry I can't be more of a help.

[Sealord]

Ask your boss to rent a truck from Ryder or Penske, you reimburse your boss. Without a Class A, I doubt you could rent a truck.
Is your boss credentialed as a Class A instructor? Hate to see you punt your skills test 'cause he didn't fully instruct you in every thing you need to know. BOL