[loofnicnad]

Hello everyone.

I am about to begin my cdl training with Driver Solutions in Fort Wayne, Indiana. After which I am told I will be driving for USA Truck. What I am hoping to find here is someone who has been through this program and can give me a realistic idea of what to expect both during the classroom/field training and during the time ahead with the OTR trainer.

Thanks in advance for your replies

[mmiikkee]

I'm also thinking about going through Driver Solutions and going to work for USA truck. I filled out an online app, and I have to give their rep a call in the morning. How long does the process go from filling out an application to starting training. I'm still leaving my options open, because I might be able to get a state grant to pay for my training.

gOOD luck

[okie]

I sent online rez on Wed. Got call first thing Thurs. He was ready to put me in class a week later. Told him I still had 3 months till vested with the state retirement system, just trying to get things lined up early. He told me, It was way to early to be bothering him. Sent me a nice little Drivers Solutions CDL prep book and course/program though.

[loofnicnad]

Okay, I am now in my second week of training. First day behind the wheel was today and I did better than I thought I would. More on that in a minute.
I waited a week and a half before I started last Monday. All week was in the classroom learning about handling the equipment and studying for the BMV tests required to get my permit. Also logging and Map/trip planning.
I passed the BMV testing in two days without failing any of the tests. Spent my free time working on my pre-trip inspection procedure and four point airbrake check in an empty truck at the outside edge of the range.
Today I got to put theory into practice as I took my first turn behind the wheel. 17 miles, never got in trouble as the instructor kept us slower than the speed limit to learn how the truck handles and to work on shifting. Only real mistake I made was shifting while crossing RR tracks but I won't be doing that again. I felt a little overwhelmed but thought I did okay for the first time out.
As far as the program, it seems that the material is rushed but I think that is true of a lot of the schools. It has been explained to me that I am here learning the minimum requirements to obtain my CDL, and then the company trainer will take and improve my abilities. At this point, I can only hope that that is the case.
Wish me luck on the rest of the week.

loofnincad

[loofnicnad]

Happy Day!!!!!!
I have completed my CDL School and have my new License in my pocket!!!
I was a bundle of nerves throughout the test today but managed somehow to pull thru it!!!!
Next week I'll be joining you on the road. Try not to be to hard on the new guy.

loofnincad

[greg3564]

Originally Posted by loofnicnad

Happy Day!!!!!!
I have completed my CDL School and have my new License in my pocket!!!
I was a bundle of nerves throughout the test today but managed somehow to pull thru it!!!!
Next week I'll be joining you on the road. Try not to be to hard on the new guy.

loofnincad

How long is their OTR training?

[loofnicnad]

Originally Posted by greg3564

How long is their OTR training?

4-6 weeks

[Rookie1954]

Well are you with your trainer yet? How is it going out there on the road? Or are you still waiting on a trainer? Let us know how it's working out please. I am thinking about doing the same thing just waiting on you to finish telling us how it's going lol. Rookie