I heard that the big companies get paid to train new drivers, somthing about trying to keep pace with large demand for truck drivers, since NAFTA. If so is it a tax credit or do they pay a trainees pay? Ive heard this rumor from alot of sorces, What agency does this and where can I get reliable info, I know Werner offers a Fed Cirtificate with completion of there program.

 

I don't know if all of them get subsidies from the government, but I am sure some do. In my state there used to be a program called PIC. It was a program which paid 1/2 of the training costs for new people. If you are looking for free training, you need to check with some of the larger training carriers such as Swift, Schneider, Millis, Roehl, CRST. Most of them will give you free training as long as you agree to work for them for a specified time frame. If you leave prior to fulfilling your commitment you will need to pay for your training, which will be several thousand dollars. Some community colleges and state vocational schools offer training at low cost. Most will have financial aid available.

 

Looks like you can scratch Millis off that list GMAN. Been reading on another board that trainees now pay the $2500...$500 up front, then after you are hired and start driving for them, $20 a week deducted from your check for 100 weeks.

 

That is too bad. Still you can always go to a vocational training school for about $1,000 or so. If they want you to pay for it anyway, you may as well save some money.